Cadillac Repair: Traction Control & ABS Lights On, abs light, handleing

Question
I have a 97 ElDorado and out of the blue my traction control light comes on and a day or 2 later my ABS light came on.  Traction control is NOT working, not sure about the ABS.  Any ideas.  Somebody told me their battery once caused that same problem??  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Karen,

     The 2 systems work together. As you found out the trac light turns on first and then the ABS light turns on not because it also has a problem but because they work together when the car needs to stop. For example when you need to stop suddenly the front end will drop down. When the traction control is working correctly it will allow less dip and if you were on a slick surface such as ice, snow or water provide better vehicle handleing so the car is less likely to spin out of control.

     I would suggest taking the Eldo to your mechanic and have the codes read and that should lead to the fix. But concentrate on the traction control code. Better yet they should clear the codes and then go for a drive. As soon as the trac light turns on pull over and see what code is set and then they will know what to look at.

    Hope that helps. Bill