traction control light and loss of power

If the traction control light’s on and the car feels asthmatic, it’s either saving you from yourself or something’s gone pear-shaped.

The system cuts power when it senses wheel slip or a fault in the ABS/ESC network, dropping you into a sort of polite limp mode.

Common culprits:

• Wheel speed sensor faults or damaged tone rings
• Throttle body/MAF issues or boost leaks upsetting the ECU
• Steering angle or brake light switch misreads confusing ESC
• Low battery voltage or dodgy grounds upsetting modules
• Mismatched tyre sizes or very low pressures triggering constant intervention

Try the basics: check tyre pressures, battery health, and scan for fault codes; if power is limited, drive gently to a safe spot.

If the light stays on, get an OBD scan or see a workshop—guessing here burns time and cash faster than a clutch at Bathurst.