TCS light on

[JayErnie]

Hey guys,

Yesterday I was driving from the job with my car, then about 3 mins of driving, the TCS off light poped up with no reason. I tried to turn it on and off and the light was always there, strange stuff.

I wonder if it's because I washed my car with a Karcher Steamer; that machine doesn't push water too hard, but I wonder if the water jet could have tiped off a cable or broke/un-plugged a sensor, since I washed the inside of the fenders, especially the left-rear one since it was really dirty inside it.

I laso removed the MAF grill and polished it on that day but I doubt it has anything to do with that

Any advise or info about that problem? Is it frequent? First time happening to me.

[seanlong]

Hey guys,

I wonder if it's because I washed my car with a Karcher Steamer; that machine doesn't push water too hard, but I wonder if the water jet could have tiped off a cable or broke/un-plugged a sensor, since I washed the inside of the fenders, especially the left-rear one since it was really dirty inside it.

I had the same indication after going to a car wash. Apparently the ABS/TCS module (not sure it's exact name) shorted to ground during the wash and needs to be replaced.

The service manual has a troubleshooting process but it takes the dealer service tools to run it properly. The dealer says the module is $1150 but gmpartsdirect.com seems to have it for under $700.

[2001NBMZ28]

I'd try unplugging the wheel sensors, make sure they're dry then plug them back in - especially the LR.

[JayErnie]

Ok, i'll check the sensor at the wheels. Never checked them b4 so I'll have to lift the car and go see. NO way i'm paying 700 bucks for a new module lol If it is that, then it's gonna be a free no TCS mod at all lol

[70RScamaro]

wheel speed sensors are common to go out due to water crosion creates to much of a ressistance to run at the proper voltage and it wont read at all so the light comes on but yeah u need a new one , sorry that hurts

[JayErnie]

Maybe not! The light didn't pop today! It's a hot day so I guess it was just water in the connector that was shorting it...I hope lol :crossfingers;

[seanlong]

If it detects a problem but the problem clears up, the system will reset after 100 ignition cycles.

[LS2Tuner]

Yes the wheel sensors could be covered with brake dust.....I would try putting some brake clean on a rag and wiping the sensors clean. I have ran into it before on customers cars.

[Steve Crowe]

It's also a good idea to clean both the male and female connectors at the wheel sensors then coat them all lightly with some silicone grease / caliper lube / spark plug boot stuff - it's all about the same and helps keep water & air out for less possibility of future corrosion.