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2020 Forester ABS & Traction Control Lights On

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Rachel A. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:18 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Subaru Forester Limited

Hey everyone, I've got a problem with my 2020 Subaru Forester Limited. The ABS light and the Traction Control System (TCS) light both came on yesterday and haven't gone off since. There's no noticeable change in driving, braking feels normal, but it's concerning to see those warning lights.

I tried turning the car off and on again, but they stay lit. I haven't hit any major potholes or had any work done recently. Could this be a sensor issue? I'm worried about driving it like this, especially with winter coming up.

Has anyone with a 2020 Forester experienced this? What should I look for?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:18 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: The simultaneous illumination of your ABS and Traction Control System (TCS) lights on your 2020 Subaru Forester Limited typically indicates an issue within the anti-lock braking system or its related sensors. While braking may feel normal, these systems are crucial for safety, especially in adverse conditions.

Here are the common causes and steps:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure: This is the most frequent culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotation speed. If one fails, the ABS/TCS system can't accurately determine wheel speeds, leading to the warning lights. A common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for this would be C0031 (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit), C0034 (Right Front), C0037 (Left Rear), or C003A (Right Rear).
  2. Damaged Wiring: The wiring harness leading to a wheel speed sensor can get damaged by road debris, corrosion, or even during routine maintenance. Inspect visible wiring near the wheels.
  3. ABS Module Malfunction: Less common, but a fault within the ABS control module itself can trigger these lights. This might be accompanied by codes like C0020 (ABS Pump Motor Control Circuit) or U0121 (Lost Communication with ABS Control Module).
  4. Low Brake Fluid: While less likely to trigger both ABS and TCS lights simultaneously without other brake warnings, it's always worth checking your brake fluid level.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: If you notice any change in braking performance, such as a spongy pedal, pulling to one side, or grinding noises.
  • As soon as possible: Even without noticeable symptoms, the ABS and TCS systems are disabled when these lights are on, compromising your vehicle's safety features.
  • A professional shop can connect a specialized scanner to read ABS-specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which standard OBD-II scanners often cannot access. This will pinpoint the exact sensor or module causing the issue, allowing for precise diagnosis and repair. Driving with these lights on for an extended period is not recommended.
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