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ABS and Traction Control Lights On - 2019 Ascent

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Melissa G. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring

My 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring suddenly has both the ABS and Traction Control lights illuminated on the dashboard. This happened yesterday while I was driving normally, with no prior warning. There's no noticeable change in braking performance or handling, and the car feels like it's driving fine.

However, it's concerning to have these important safety lights on. I only have a basic OBD-II scanner, which doesn't seem to read ABS-specific codes. What could be causing this, and is it safe to continue driving my Ascent with these lights on?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: When both the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Traction Control System (TCS) lights illuminate simultaneously on your 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring, it typically indicates a fault within the vehicle's wheel speed sensor system or the ABS control module itself. These systems are interconnected, as TCS relies on the same wheel speed data as ABS.

Here are the most common causes:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure: This is the most frequent culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If one fails, becomes dirty, or its wiring is damaged, the ABS/TCS system loses crucial data, triggering the lights.
  2. Damaged Wiring/Connectors: The wiring harness leading to a wheel speed sensor can get damaged by road debris, corrosion, or even during other repairs.
  3. ABS Control Module Failure: Less common, but the ABS module itself can fail. This is a more expensive repair.
  4. Low Brake Fluid: While less likely to trigger both lights without a separate brake warning light, extremely low brake fluid can sometimes cause issues with braking system warnings.
  5. Steering Angle Sensor: In some vehicles, a faulty steering angle sensor (part of the stability control system) can also trigger these lights.

Is it safe to drive? While your regular braking might feel normal, the ABS and Traction Control systems are likely disabled. This means that in an emergency braking situation, your wheels could lock up, and in slippery conditions, the traction control won't prevent wheel spin. It's generally advised to drive with extreme caution and get it checked as soon as possible, especially if you anticipate adverse weather or need to perform emergency maneuvers.

When to see a shop: Since your basic scanner can't read ABS-specific codes, you'll need to take your Ascent to a Subaru dealership or a reputable independent shop. They have advanced diagnostic tools that can communicate with the ABS module, read the specific fault codes, and pinpoint the exact wheel speed sensor or other component that has failed. Addressing this promptly ensures your safety systems are fully functional.

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