Today’s cars come with sophisticated systems that enhance the drive, such as StabiliTrak. This electronic stability control system is specifically designed for GM, but similar systems exist for other brands. So, what do you do when the Service StabiliTrak warning comes up on the dashboard?
In this guide, I give you a closer look at the electronic stability control systems and show you what to do when the light comes on. I even discuss how to turn the light off when appropriate.
In This Article:
What is StabiliTrak?
GM patented its own electronic stability control (ESC) system, known as StabiliTrak. This ESC system is designed to prevent wheel slip by reducing engine power during low-traction conditions.
However, other auto manufacturers have a similar system with a different name. Even though there won’t be a StabiliTrak warning on a vehicle outside of the Chevrolet and GM vehicle lineup, many of the same principles exist across the board.
What Does Service StabiliTrak Mean?
The Service StabiliTrak message indicates a problem within your Chevy’s stability control system. This warning usually appears when a sensor detects an issue with wheel position, steering response, or vehicle stability. Under normal operation, the StabiliTrak system automatically corrects understeer or oversteer to help keep your vehicle stable.
When functioning properly, StabiliTrak enhances safety and control, especially on wet or slippery roads. However, if a sensor fails, the system can no longer operate as intended, triggering the warning message. While driving with the light on is not usually dangerous, the traction control may be limited, so it’s best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
RELATED: ESC Light – Meaning, Causes (& How to Fix it)
Possible Causes of Service StabiliTrak Message
The Service StabiliTrak message is usually caused by an issue with the traction control system, brake components, or steering wheel system. A faulty ABS sensor, throttle sensor, or bad steering angle sensor is among the most common causes.
The StabiliTrak system runs through the traction control system, ABS brake system components and steering wheel. However, there are aspects beyond these systems that could cause the malfunction.
The most common causes of a Service StabiliTrak message include:
- Bad throttle position sensor
- Defective ABS sensors
- Malfunctioning steering angle sensor/steering wheel position sensor
- Old or corroded spark plugs
- Bad fuel pump
- Engine misfire
- Issues with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system
- Defective brake switch
- Bad tire pressure monitor sensor
- Malfunctioning body control module
- Use of E85 fuel
There are several possible reasons the StabiliTrak light might come on. The most common cause is a faulty sensor that prevents the system from receiving accurate data, forcing it to shut down as a safety measure. Using a diagnostic scanner can help identify the exact fault code, allowing you to pinpoint which sensor is malfunctioning and fix the issue quickly.
A less common but well-documented cause is the use of E85 fuel. Many drivers have reported that switching to E85 can trigger both the StabiliTrak and check engine lights. In most cases, once conventional gasoline is added back into the tank, the warning lights disappear on their own. If you’ve recently filled up and no other fault codes appear, this may be worth considering.
In some situations, a failing fuel pump can also cause the StabiliTrak light to illuminate, even though the system is not directly related to the fuel system. That’s why it’s important to look at all the symptoms your vehicle is showing. If multiple issues occur together, it becomes much easier to identify the real cause and perform an accurate diagnosis.
You also want to look for technical service bulletins. You will find some published for GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet Volt and Buick Envision.
How to Reset Service StabiliTrak Message
If the Service StabiliTrak warning light has come on the dashboard, you should take heed that there’s something wrong with the system. There could be a computer failure or software malfunction turning the system off.
Before you try to turn off the warning light, you want to run a full diagnostic of the system to find the fault. Warning lights are meant to alert you to danger.
Once the diagnostics are completed and you know how to resolve the problem, you are ready to reset the warning light.
Here are some general guidelines on how to reset the Service StabiliTrak Message:
- Check the StabiliTrak button. If it has been pushed in manually, the light will remain on.
- Consider the weather systems and road conditions. If there’s a reason for the system to be disabled automatically, that could be why the warning light is on.
- Rotate the steering wheel clockwise. If the light turns off, there’s probably nothing wrong with the StabiliTrak system. If the light remains on, continue with the following steps.
- Shut down the vehicle. Walk away and do something else for about 15 minutes. This time gives the system a chance to reset.
- Restart the vehicle. If the message is gone, you don’t need to service the vehicle. Otherwise, it’s time for complete diagnostics.
If the Service StabiliTrak light persists, there could be several faults with the system. It could be caused by a defective input sensor or a malfunctioning controller. It’s also possible that there is simply a bad connection in the system that needs to be re-established.
You might spend, on average, $200 to $550 to repair a Service StabiliTrak warning, depending on what’s causing the fault. If you aren’t sure how to proceed, get the car diagnosed through a mechanic that understands the GM technology.
Can I Keep Driving with the StabiliTrak Light On?
If you’ve chosen to turn StabiliTrak off, there’s nothing wrong with the system and you are free to drive as needed. Just be aware that having the system disabled means that there will be no traction control, meaning that you could notice the tires spinning and skidding in slippery situations. Drive accordingly to prevent any accidents.
However, if StabiliTrak is turned off because of a fault, you need to have it looked at. Only after the trouble codes are diagnosed should you determine if driving would be safe. In some conditions, you can wait to get the repair – as long as you are comfortable driving without traction control.
With that said, some of the causes are going to lead to other problems. If the reason the StabiliTrak is malfunctioning is also causing other concerns, it’s best to have the fault repaired.
FAQs
Yes. StabiliTrak can affect transmission. When the system is activated, it applies forces to the wheels in order to help keep the car stable. This can create resistance and drag that can impact how well the wheels rotate and, as a result, how well the car moves.
A bad StabiliTrak system can cause a StabiliTrak error message on your dashboard, and it can cause the car to veer off course or skid on slippery surfaces. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your car in for service right away.
No. StabiliTrak is usually not covered under warranty. However, it really depends on your car’s make and model, as well as the type of warranty you have. It’s always best to check with your manufacturer or dealer to see what exactly is covered under your warranty.
No. The StabiliTrak system itself should not prevent your car from starting. However, there could be a major electronic problem with your car that is causing both the starting problems and the StabiliTrak problems.
Conclusion
The Service StabiliTrak message is your vehicle’s way of telling you that something isn’t right with its stability or traction control system. While it can sometimes be triggered by something simple, such as a bad sensor or low battery voltage, it may also point to more serious issues involving the ABS or steering system.
If the warning light appears, drive cautiously and avoid slippery conditions until the problem is diagnosed. A quick scan with an OBD2 tool can often identify the root cause. Fixing the issue promptly will restore your vehicle’s stability control, improve safety, and prevent related systems from being affected in the long run.
