Service ESC Light On A Car: Causes and How To Fix

Electronic stability control ESC is a safety feature for cars with advanced dynamic support. ESC enables the driver to maintain control of the cars during extreme car maneuvers or slippery roads. 

However, what does Service ESC light on a car dashboard mean? How to fix this warning light? It’s sometimes concerning but we are here to help you.

What Does We Service ESC Light Mean?

ESC (Electronic Stability Control) is a safety feature in modem car models intended to facilitate driver control to extreme maneuvers or slippery road conditions because of ESC the car automatically checks electronic throttle control and brakes to restore the stability of the car. It automatically activates and in certain cases reduces the engine power allowing the driver to have control over the car that does not lose its grip or sliding.

ESC is the initiative of Electronic Stability Control. Therefore, when the warning light blinks on your dashboard, this is due to either malfunctioning or an issue with the ESC system that requires troubleshooting. 

Common Causes Of The Service ESC Light

This is as likely to be the result of one of the electric power steering system components malfunctioning, thereby signalling the failure of the whole electric power steering control device.

Common causes of Service ESC light on a car are:

Common Causes Of The Service ESC Light

Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors

The ESP system uses the wheel speed sensors data to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel thus measuring the on-road conditions. The sensor can be brought to the stoppage and even contact the Service ESC if any of the elements stop working or if an error arises on any of them.

Wiring Issues

Corrosion of the wiring harness or its components connected with ESC system can be a cause of information logjam between the auto computer and sensors. It may end up with warning emergence at the speed of light.

Steering Assist Sensor Calibration

The ESC system in some cases may also demand recalibration, for instance, after some repairing works, and steering assist sensor replacements.

ESC Module Malfunction

The least common of all is when the module ESC is the issue and it is afflicted or defective leading the system to act improperly and the indicator is lit.

How To Fix Service ESC Light On A Car?

Fixing the “Service ESC” light on your car may vary depending on the underlying cause. There are some general steps you can take to address the issue:

Check For Other Warning Lights

The “Service ESC” warning can become active any time while driving hence you need to check if there are any other warning lights on. Adding more after warning lights not only creates more evidence but also the trouble identifying the error that caused the ESC system breakdown.

Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors

The accuracy of the ABS system put together is determined by its wheel speed sensors which monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. Visually inspect these sensors for damage, corrosion, or connectivity problems of the sensors. Clean the holes of any soil or concrete pieces that may do this. Moreover, for a detector to fail, it is possible that it needs to be replaced.

Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors

Inspect Wiring And Connections

A system breakdown can occur in the ESC computer due to a continuity disturbance of the wiring harnesses. Check if there is any evidence of tears, burns, or loose wires in the cabling and wire connections. Re-wire and connect any wires and connectors that got compromised.

Recalibrate Steering Assist Sensor

However, the ESC system may sometimes require recalibration, e.g. when the system was newly set up after several maintenance procedures or when certain components were replaced. Use the vehicle guide or with the help of a mechanic, find out how often the steering sensor will need to be recalibrated.

Scan For Error Codes

Inspect the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) using the diagnostic scanner to check for any error codes stored in the computer system of the vehicle. Such data can be the solution to the specific component or systems of the car being the problem that the “Service ESC” light is being flickered.

Consult A Professional Mechanic

In case you cannot repair or diagnose the problem, find out and solve it best to get a mechanic or the ones dealing with cars. Owners will enjoy the fact that these cars boast the latest in diagnostic equipment likely to isolate the cause of a given fault and recommend lasting solutions.

Address The Underlying Issue

After you identify the problem, implement the recommended repairs and maintenance to make sure that the ESC system needs to do its right work correctly. It could be fixing bad sensors, repairing loose wires or reconfiguring the system, etc.

Reset The System

Sometimes, returning to the electronic control system (ESC) could be the answer. The disconnecting and reconnecting of the car battery for a few moments might be a suitable method for carrying out this task.

Yet, make sure that you are aware of the slight chance of the device resetting the other settings in your vehicle as well. Therefore, read your owner’s manual carefully or ask for professional help before moving forward.

FAQs on Service ESC Light On A Car

What Does The Service ESC Light On My Car’s Dashboard Mean?

Service ESC” light represents an issue related to ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) is a system being utilized by your vehicle. It is an indication of the possible problems may be in wheel-speed sensors, wiring or the electronic stability control module, in turn causing the control system to not maintain a proper balance of the vehicle during the maneuvering.

Can I Continue Driving My Car if The Service ESC Light is On?

Traveling or not, it is recommended to manage the problem immediately because it is important to ensure overall safety. The “Service ESC” warning light might come off when you are driving the car. You can drive the car in emergency conditions.

How Can I Troubleshoot The Service ESC Light On My Car?

Do not assume until all the warning lights have been checked. Also, look at components such as wheel sensors and wiring for defects or corrosion. Thus, you can also look into resetting the ESC system by taking the car’s battery off for a few minutes. Nevertheless, if the problem is unsolved before your next appointment consult a professional mechanic who can offer diagnosis and repairs.

Final Words

The Service ESC light on your car dashboard is a highly important warning symbol that you should never neglect. Knowing the reasons behind this warning light symbol and having the ability to take the necessary measures quickly to solve the problem will bring the idea of having a safe and reliable vehicle closer and closer while driving. If the Service light flashes on the ESC board, do not wait to seek advice from a specialist who can look into the matter from a professional angle. You pay a price and that price is your safety!

Dennis Walton is a professional car mechanic and part time automotive blog author. He lives in Denver, Colorado known for his expertise in all types of car engine. Dennis is passionate for cars and established himself as a trusted authority in the automotive industry. He shares critical car problems and solutions on How We Drive blog.

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