Auto Electronics: Lights:, obd ii reader, obd ii code reader

Question
I had the Traction & ABS Lights come on at the same time,
are they  on  the Same circuit?
 Where do I begin to look for the problem ?
     Keith  

Answer
Hello Keith,

Depending on the model of car, sometimes traction & ABS lights can be connected to the same circuit, however it really does depend on the make and model of vehicle you have. Normally when ever the vehicles ABS or traction lights come on, it's usually a sensor, however there can be other factors that could involve themselves into causing this problem.

Unfortunately, whenever a traction or ABS light comes on, there is a code that is associated with that light coming on. The only way to properly diagnose the problem is to read the code using an OBD II code reader that is designed to be able to read traction and ABS codes.

There are two options for you to pursue at this point, one you can take the vehicle to a mechanic where they can use their OBD II reader to properly read the codes. Option number two, would be for you to purchase and OBD II reader from your local auto parts store. OBD II readers can be very expensive, it is also important to ensure that the one that you purchase, is able to read ABS and traction light codes, as not all of them do.

Once you have read the code, you have two more avenues that you can pursue. One, you can type a follow-up question to me, and insert the code into that question and I will look it up for you and tell you what it means and what the problem is. Option number two would be for you to have the mechanic repair the problem, since he will be able to look up what the code means and tell you what the best course of action is to fix the problem.

I highly recommend that unless you have a background in automotive mechanics, that you have whatever work needs to be performed, done by a licensed automotive mechanic. Traction and ABS lights that come on in a vehicle can sometimes represent a very serious problem with the vehicles stopping ability or ability to grab the road. This is why it is extremely important for you to have the work performed by someone who knows exactly what they're doing and has been trained in how to work with ABS systems and traction in a vehicle.

The ability of the vehicle to grab the road or traction, and inability to properly stop or your vehicles ABS system, are probably two of the most important parts of your vehicles mechanics. This is why it is extremely important to ensure that whoever is performing the work knows they're doing, as improper work for performing the work in a way that is up to the automotive standard, can cause serious problems and lead to injury or death.

Please let me know if I can be of further assistance to you, and keep me advised of your progress.

Good luck. Thank you.