Abs And Tcs Light On Volvo Truck – Important Things You Must Know

The ABS and TCS light on Volvo truck serve important purposes.

If you are wondering what these lights are for, or what you should do in the event that the lights come on, then here are important things you need to do to get the issue straightened out.

Find out more about the ABS and TCS light functions, issues, and troubleshooting tips to help you understand these parts further.

ABS and TCS Light On Volvo Truck

First, let’s begin with the ABS light and what it is for.

ABS Light On Volvo Truck

ABS stands for Anti-lock Brake System. This light turns on once the ABS module finds an issue with your steering angle sensor, wheel speed sensors, control module, and the pump.

When any of these problems trigger the light to turn on, the wheels will then lock up the moment you hit the brakes. Then, this prevents any traction with the road. As a result, your car may skid, which means you will need to take a longer distance just to be able to stop.

On the other hand, if your Volvo has a stability or traction control, then these systems are disabled since they rely on the ABS to work properly. But if you decide to continue driving even with your ABS light on, your check engine light will also be activated. Your vehicle may either stall or enter into a limp mode as you drive.

Aside from the ABS light turning on, there are other symptoms that may arise:

• Brake light on
• Traction off
• Check engine light
• Anti-skid disabled
• ABS service required
• Check engine light
• Traction light on, STC light on

Your vehicle may also shut off unexpectedly. A number of these symptoms are only intermittent. Yet, you may notice these issues more frequently when it is hot or humid outside or when you drive on a bumpy road. When you restart your vehicle, however, the issues may disappear.

Sometimes, just a soft reset on your ABS light should fix the problem. But if the light turns back on, you need to diagnose the root of the problem to completely fix the issue.

Diagnosing The ABS Light

The first thing you should do is to use a scanner designed for Volvo. The scanner should be able to show you some fault codes, which you can then troubleshoot.

Once you have checked for the codes, you can begin troubleshooting.

If the ABS light remains on after you have started the engine, it means there is simply a malfunction.

On the other hand, a fault code for a defective wheel speed sensor or ABS pump means that the ABS module is the problem and not the parts mentioned.

You may also need to check the fuses for your ABS module. Simply find out where the fuse panel is and if the fuse appears to be blown, you need to replace it.

In the case of another ABS warning message, it may also be due to a malfunction in the ABS relay. Check for the ABS relay found in the fuse box. If this is broken, replace it to see if the issue gets resolved.

It is also possible for a low level of brake fluid to cause the brake light to turn on, in addition to a warning message. Check the level immediately and get this issue amended right away since losing the brake fluid can pose safety issues.

Fixing The ABS Module

If you have observed that the problem is with the ABS module, then you need to take your vehicle to your dealer. An ABS module replacement should cost over $1,000 while the average repair cost is between $1500 and $2000.

A more cost-effective option is for you to remove the ABS module yourself and send this to a professional that specializes in ABS module repair. They will then remove the ABS module and fix any broken connections.

You can also replace the module with a secondhand one, if you have an older Volvo model. But if it’s a newer model, it will not work since the VIN needs to be coded right into the module just so it can match your vehicle.

TCS Light On Volvo Truck

TCS stands for Traction Control System, and the light comes on where there is a fault code in your traction control system. This component allows you to be in control of your truck in case one or more of the tires lose traction as you drive.

The most typical reason behind this is a poor road condition such as ice or snow. Also, your driving patterns impact the light to come on since if you are less cautious with your driving, the traction control may malfunction eventually.

The TCS light serves many purposes. For instance, it informs you when the traction control system is working. You will feel the brakes lock up then release as your ABS goes on and off. Thus, if the wheels start to slip, it means these systems are working.

You should observe the light when you turn the key in your ignition. This is merely a system check, and it should go away when everything is working right.

But if you notice that the light remains constant, then it means the TCS is malfunctioning. The light may also flash randomly while you drive, which means the system is having some serious problems. It is best to stop driving until you fix the problem.

Why The TCS Light Turns On

There are a number of reasons why you may notice the TCS light turning on.

For instance, the system may be turned off. When this happens, you simply need to turn it on to get this issue fixed.

If the wheel speed sensors are malfunctioning, the TCS light may also turn on. This is why you will need to have this problem resolved.

A problem with the steering angle sensor may also be causing the problem. As you turn the vehicle, the outer wheels turn faster. This is a normal response, and your steering angle sensor informs the ECM what exactly is happening. But if the sensor gives you a faulty report, then the TCS registers the issue and turns the light on while you turn.

Next up, there may be some electrical issues or faulty wiring going on. While these are not common to trigger the light to come on, there is still a possibility. So, you may want to rule this problem out first before you decide to shell out a lot of cash on brand new sensors.

Can you Drive Safely With TCS Light?

Generally, it is not advisable to drive your vehicle with the TCS light, even if it is usually safe. First, the TCS helps you to keep the truck maintain traction when the road conditions are bad. So, if this function is not working right, then you may encounter safety issues.

Moreover, depending on what faults the system registers, the TCS could stay on while you drive. Hence, the ABS will apply the brakes when you drive, which can pose another problem.

Read More: Why Does My Truck Smell Like Rotten Eggs? Common Causes You Need To Know

Bottom Line

When your ABS and TCS light on Volvo truck turn on, there are many different possible reasons to look into. It is best to get these issues fixed since the lights help to keep you safe while on the road. Have the problem addressed by an expert not only to ensure your safety but also the safety of other motorists.