Did you get a service stability system message on your dashboard, and you are wondering what it means? If so, Then you are in the right place.
When you get the service stability system message on your dashboard, it means that there is a fault in the vehicle’s stability system. The stability system is like a form of traction control found in almost all cars, acting as the primary safety measure. A broken controller, input sensor, and bad connection are the likely reasons why the service stability system message appears.
As you read further in this article, you will understand more about the service stability system message on your vehicle’s dashboard, what causes it, and how to fix it.
What Does Service Stability System Mean?
The Service stability system message signifies a fault in your vehicle’s stability system, which serves as a traction control in all vehicles for safety reasons. this message can be caused by a malfunctioning Input sensor, improper connection, or a bad controller
Before we progress, we must understand what the stability system is all about and its role in your safety while driving.
What Is a Stability System?
The stability system in a car is also known as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC). In a dangerous driving scenario, a driver can control the car with the help of the vehicle’s electronic stability control system, which uses programmed wheel brakes. For example, plowing or spinning out of a vehicle which can be caused by road traction loss due to slippery wheels, can be prevented by Electronic Stability Control in a car.
The ESC technology offers high efficiency that will help the driver not lose control of the vehicle during difficult steering operations. Of course, the ESC doesn’t exactly stop the car from tumbling, but it helps maintain the tire balance on the road and prevents it from rolling over.
There are various names under which ESC is sold, such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), etc.
Also Read: Service Tire Monitor System (Meaning, Causes & Solutions)
What Causes the Service Stability System Light to Come On?
The service stability system Light may pop up for so many reasons. The primary causes are as follows;
1. Power Steering Sensor Problems
The input sensor and the sensor of the power steering work together. This is so because the car stability control module gets its data from these sensors and also the information on how much help you are getting from the power steering system while driving.
So when there is a fault in any of these sensors, the service stability system message will come up.
2. Faulty Controller
All the data supplied by the vehicle’s sensors goes to the controller, and it creates specific feedback on the best ways of controlling your vehicle.
When the controller gets faulty, the specific kind of feedback which will aid in the car control may not be provided, leading to the service stability system message.
3. Loose or Faulty Connection
The Stability system uses the GM-LAN communication line to transfer information from the vehicle’s sensor to the stability controller. If the communication line gets bad or loose, the data might not be sent.
This may lead to the inability of the stability system to observe your vehicle’s stability effectively and cause the service stability system message to come on.
4. Malfunctioning Output Sensor
The information about the amount of torque that goes to each wheel is gotten from the output sensor, which is then sent to the car’s stability control module.
For this reason, whenever the sensor starts malfunctioning, it finds it difficult to send the right information about the vehicle’s engine power.
You will be alerted about this malfunction with the service stability system message.
5. Problem With the Power Train System
Another cause of the service stability message is a fault in the car’s powertrain. Different components that work to supply energy to the vehicle’s wheel make up the power train system.
The stability setup might not get the required engine power if one of the components gets faulty. The power train light on your car will also come on if this happens.
6. Malfunctioning Stability Control Module
The primary role of the stability control Module is to monitor all the vehicle’s systems and help it maintain course and stability while driving.
The service stability message will come on if your vehicle notices any fault in the stability control module or its related components.
7. Defective Abs Module
An anti-lock brake system helps you control your car when your car wheels drift and get across the braking discs.
There will be an inability to maintain the vehicle control when the ABS Module gets faulty. In addition, a defective ABS will lead to the service stability system message in some vehicles.
Also Read: Traction Control Light Won’t Turn Off? (Causes & How to Fix)
Symptoms of Service Stability System
There are alarming signs that cannot be ignored when your vehicle is experiencing a service stability system problem. The signs include:
- Hard shifting
- the service stability system message will come up.
- Power loss/limp mode
- Random trouble codes pop up, and they have P0011(camshaft positioning A), C0561(ABS disabled), P0521(engine oil pressure sensor), and P0121(pedal position sensor). Remember that The service stability system message could come up without causing any codes.
How to Fix Service Stability System
When the service stability system light comes on, there is something wrong with the stability system. You will have to know the exact cause of the message to know how to fix it.
Suppose you can’t find the exact cause of the service stability system message. In that case, it is advisable to see a mechanic for a proper diagnosis of the exact faulty stability system component and repair it.
If the service stability system message comes on while driving, here are steps to take.
Step 1: Pullover
The first step is to pull over at a convenient location as soon as the warning lights come on.
Step 2: Turn off the engine
Switch off your vehicle’s engine for about twenty to thirty seconds after pulling over. It will help all the systems to reset.
Step 3: Start the engine
The warning light will likely go off after you restart the car.
But if it doesn’t disappear, you will have to drive carefully to a mechanic to detect the particular component of your vehicle’s stability system that is faulty and fix it.
Check out this video for more tips on how to fix service stability system
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Service Stability System?
The cost to service a stability system should be around $80- $90. Labor cost is inclusive, and this may be $30- $50, which depends on the vehicle dealer and location, Whereas parts may cost between $20 and $40.
Some other cars that need replacement of these sensors may cost around $250-$400 per piece.
The service stability system signal has no unique cause; hence, it is better to check for possible causes to know what to do next. Take the car to a mechanic if this doesn’t work after you try fixing it.
What Does Service Stability System Mean on Cadillac?
If the service stability system light comes on, it means that the stability control system is disabled for some reason. If an ABS light does not accompany it, it is not likely a wheel-speed sensor problem. The problem could be a faulty steering wheel position sensor. it could also be because there has been an engine problem such as a misfire that has disabled the traction control system
Frequently Asked Questions – Service Stability System
What Does Service Stability System Mean on a Buick?
The Service stability system light on a Buick usually means one of the wheel sensors is not working or has loose wires. It could also be a result of a faulty controller.
What Does It Mean When Your Car Says Service Stability System?
The Service stability system message signifies a fault in your vehicle’s stability system, which serves as a traction control in all vehicles for safety reasons. this message can be caused by a malfunctioning Input sensor, improper connection, or a bad controller
How Much Does It Cost to Service a Stability System?
It will cost about $80 – $190 to replace your vehicle’s stability system or traction control system. Labor cost is inclusive and can be around $30 – $50, though this is determined by the manufacturer. However, the cost for each part is from $20 -$40.
Can You Drive With the Service Stability Light On?
If the service stability light is on, you can keep on driving, but you have to be careful and probably drive slowly. Every problem concerning the Stability system should be rectified by a professional as quickly as possible. Then, you can visit an automotive workshop for repair.
How Do I Reset My Electronic Stability Control?
After a self-examination by the system, the stability light rests by itself; this is done by driving your vehicle around and making several rights and left turns.
Conclusion – Service Stability System
The Service stability system message signifies a fault in your vehicle’s stability system, which serves as a traction control in all vehicles for safety reasons. This message can be caused by a malfunctioning Input sensor, improper connection, or a bad controller.
Drivers are protected from swerving, and accidents are prevented in complicated road situations with the help of the stability system.
Therefore whenever you see the service stability system light on your car’s dashboard, ensure that it is fixed as soon as possible.