Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Warning Lights
ABS and traction control systems conduct a self-test after ignition is turn on. The Yellow ABS warning light comes on during self-test. The traction control indicator also will come on during self-test of traction control system (if equipped). During self-test noises may be heard from return pump and relays, also a vibration may be felt from brake pedal. After approximately 4 seconds or less, warning lights should go off indicating system passed self-test. If ABS system fails self-test, the ABS warning light will come on. If a fault occurs in the traction control system that affects the ABS system, both traction control and ABS waring lights will come on. Either warning light may stay on or sporadically go on and off depending on type of failure (hard or intermittent fault). In any case when warning lights come on after self-test, check system for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.