Is it safe to drive with engine light and traction control light on? Generally, you can drive short distances with both lights illuminated if the check engine light is solid (not flashing) and the vehicle operates normally, but you should have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent potential damage and safety issues.
What These Warning Lights Mean
These dashboard warning lights are your vehicle’s communication system. The check engine light indicates potential engine or emissions problems, while the traction control light signals issues with your vehicle’s stability system.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light (also called the malfunction indicator lamp) is an orange, yellow, or amber light shaped like an engine that illuminates when your vehicle’s onboard computer detects an issue related to the engine or emissions system. This warning light can indicate various problems ranging from minor issues like a loose gas cap to more serious engine malfunctions.
The check engine light appears in two ways:
- Solid light: Generally indicates a less urgent issue that should be checked soon
- Flashing light: Signals a serious problem (often an engine misfire) that requires immediate attention
Traction Control Light
The traction control light typically appears as a symbol showing a car with skid marks underneath, sometimes accompanied by the letters “TC” or “ESC”. This light serves two main functions:
- It illuminates briefly when the traction control system is actively working to prevent wheel slip
- It stays on continuously when there’s a malfunction in the traction control system
The traction control system is a safety feature that helps maintain stability and control, especially in slippery conditions, by detecting when wheels lose traction and automatically applying brakes to specific wheels or reducing engine power.
Common Causes When Both Lights Appear Together
When both warning lights illuminate simultaneously, the issue often involves interconnected systems. Common culprits include wheel speed sensors, ABS problems, engine performance issues, or even something as simple as low tire pressure.
Wheel Speed Sensor Issues
Faulty wheel speed sensors are a common cause of both lights appearing together. These sensors monitor the rotation speed of each wheel and are crucial for both the traction control system and other vehicle functions. When they become dirty or fail, they can trigger both warning lights.
ABS System Problems
Since the traction control system often works in conjunction with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), problems with the ABS can affect both systems and trigger multiple warning lights.
Engine Performance Issues
Sometimes engine performance problems that trigger the check engine light can also affect the traction control system. This is because modern vehicles have integrated systems where one malfunction can impact multiple vehicle functions.
Low Tire Pressure
In some vehicles, significantly low tire pressure can trigger both warning lights as it affects both traction and engine performance.
Is It Safe to Drive With Both Lights On?
The safety level depends on specific circumstances. You can drive short distances with a solid check engine light and normal vehicle operation, but should immediately stop if the light flashes or you notice performance issues.
When It May Be Safe to Drive (Short Distances)
You can generally drive with both lights on if:
- The check engine light is solid (not flashing)
- Your vehicle is operating normally with no unusual sounds, smells, or performance issues
- You’re only driving a short distance to get to a mechanic or auto parts store
Most experts suggest that if the check engine light is constantly illuminated (not flashing) and there are no noticeable performance issues, you can typically drive 50-100 miles safely. However, this should only be done to reach a service facility.
When You Should Stop Driving Immediately
You should pull over and stop driving if:
- The check engine light is flashing
- You notice unusual engine sounds, smoke, or smells
- The vehicle is overheating
- There’s a significant loss of power or unusual vibrations
- The red brake warning light is also illuminated
A flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that could cause immediate damage to your catalytic converter and other engine components if you continue driving.
What to Do When Both Lights Come On
When both check engine light and traction control light on together, take immediate action by checking for serious symptoms, ensuring your gas cap is tight, assessing driving conditions, and possibly restarting your vehicle. If lights persist, seek professional diagnosis as soon as possible.
Immediate Steps
- Check for serious symptoms: Listen for unusual noises, watch for smoke, and pay attention to how the vehicle is handling.
- Check your gas cap: A loose gas cap is a common cause of the check engine light. Remove it and replace it securely.
- Assess driving conditions: If you’re on slippery roads, the traction control light may simply be indicating that the system is working as designed.
- Restart your vehicle: Sometimes turning the engine off and restarting after a minute can reset temporary issues.
Getting a Proper Diagnosis
- Use a diagnostic scanner: Many auto parts stores offer free diagnostic scanning to read the error codes from your vehicle’s computer.
- Visit a mechanic: Have a professional technician diagnose the issue, especially if both lights remain on after restarting the vehicle.
- Don’t ignore the warnings: Even if your vehicle seems to be running normally, having these issues diagnosed promptly can prevent more expensive repairs later.
Potential Consequences of Ignoring These Warning Lights
Ignoring these warning lights can lead to severe engine damage, compromised safety on the road, and failed emissions tests that prevent vehicle registration renewal. The cost of repairs typically increases the longer you wait.
Engine Damage
Continuing to drive with an illuminated check engine light, especially if it’s flashing, can potentially cause serious damage to your engine components, including the catalytic converter. This can lead to much more expensive repairs down the line.
Reduced Safety
With a malfunctioning traction control system, your vehicle’s ability to maintain stability in slippery conditions is compromised. This increases the risk of skidding and accidents, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Failed Emissions Tests
In many regions, a vehicle with an illuminated check engine light will automatically fail emissions testing, which could prevent you from renewing your vehicle registration.
Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Warning Lights
Regular maintenance significantly reduces the risk of warning lights appearing. Follow your vehicle’s service schedule, check tire pressure monthly, maintain your electrical system, and address minor issues promptly.
To reduce the chances of seeing these warning lights:
- Follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule for regular service intervals
- Check tire pressure regularly to ensure proper inflation
- Have your battery and electrical system checked during routine maintenance
- Address minor issues promptly before they develop into major problems
While it may be safe to drive short distances with both the check engine light and traction control light illuminated (provided the check engine light isn’t flashing), the best course of action is to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Ignoring these warning lights can lead to more serious problems, increased repair costs, and potential safety risks.