ABS, TRAC Off and One the message Center Traction Service

2003 CHEVROLET IMPALA
143,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
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CARY CASAS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
When I turn the car on all three lights come up, and after a while the Message Center Service Traction comes off. The ABS and TRAC Of lights keeps on.

When is service required?

Thank you
Jan 22, 2022 at 6:48 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

All of the lights you mentioned can be caused by one thing. First, make sure the brake fluid is full. Low brake fluid can cause them to turn on.

Next, if the brake fluid is full, chances are it is related to a wheel speed sensor. There is one located at each wheel. As the wheel turns, the sensors signal the powertrain control module. If there is a variation, more than is predetermined, it will set these lights.

So, here is what I suggest. First, confirm the brake fluid is full in the master cylinder. The master cylinder is under the hood and mounted to the brake booster. This is directly in front of where the brake pedal is located in the vehicle.

I attached a pic and circled the master cylinder. There will be indicators on the reservoir saying minimum and maximum. Make sure the level is within those indicators.

If that is good, then we need to check the wheel speed sensor. It can be done with a voltmeter or a multimeter. Here is a link that shows how it's done. It's really easy to do, so don't be overwhelmed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/abs-wheel-speed-sensor-test

Pics 2 and 3 show the sensor locations.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions. Also, if the lights are on, that is an indicator the circuits/systems won't work. It doesn't mean you will lose your brakes. You will have the old-style braking system without ABS. The only thing that would be a concern is low brake fluid, so check that first.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Jan 22, 2022 at 8:23 AM
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