Cadillac Repair: traction, abs light, abs light, dip stick

Question
Hello,
I have a 96 sls and I just put rear brake pads on and I now have both the traction and the abs light on. I have disconnected the battery for a while to clear the codes but the lights continue. I have also tried the traction button but it does nothing. Can you tell me what I need to do. I swear the car feels like the traction control is on.

Thank you,
Chris

Answer
Hello,

Working on these vehicles are not as simple as they once were. You may have damaged a sensor or unplugged a wire going to a sensor.

You need to look at your work again to see if something is not connected to the sensors. If nothing obvious stands out, I am afraid you will need to take the vehicle to a service center to have the vehicle checked out.

So many people are under the misconception that all one needs to do is disconnect the battery and hook it back up and everything will be better.

The lights are on for a reason storing a fault code telling you of a problem that needs immediate attention. If you think the traction control is engaged, it probably is. This can cause a mileage problem as well as could potentially do additional damage to the vehicle.

These sensors are very sensitive and the slightest movement changing brake parts could create a major future problem.

These days it seems like one can save money by doing his own repairs, but the reality is that these cars are not like those made in the 70's and 80's.

There are just some things that should not be attempted to be done by someone not well trained.

You don't need to take the car to Cadillac and get your eyeballs ripped out. Try a Good year, Firestone, Sears etc. repair center.

Unfortunately, these repair where you could save money, in the long run cost more than the original repair.

So many repairs in these vehicles have deliberately been taken from the consumer. Many vehicles can no longer even have a simple transmission service performed. You may find on your Caddy that there is no transmission dip stick. Sealed system in which one cannot even add transmission fluid.

I would not recommend driving your car and get it in as soon as possible.

In the event you find a wire unplugged leading to a sensor and reconnect, lights should go out and this will be the end of your problem without trying to reset anything.

Good Luck!

Rob