We just purchased a 1998 Chevy Cavalier last week for my daughter, it has 65,000 miles. It has been driving fine, except today the ETS light went on, it was sluggish and then the car died..the engine light went on, oil etc. She started it up again and parked it, but what would make this ETS light go on all of a sudden. It was raining out, but she didn't skid or anything. Any help would be appreciated

TxGreaseMonkey

ETS is Enhanced Traction System is used to stop wheel slip thru reducing engine output. And if the light is on it doesn't mean you will spend x amount of dollars to fix it! It just means that ETS has been disabled because you have a engine problem and the computer cannot reduce power to the wheels because the engine might stall so the computer disables the system! Now some cars come with a switch by the shifter that turns on and off the system because if you get stuck in the snow traction control will keep you stcuk.

Take my word on this for I am a GM Tech who is a Master ASE with L1 certified!

Generally when the ETS off light is on (the only light on and not along with the check engine light) you may have a wheel speed sensor not responding. This can happen due to metallic dust on the sensor. Clean the 4 sensor locations at the local spray wash (each located on the hubs - look for the wires going to each)
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From what's said above, I would have a mechanic remove each ABS sensor, using an external torx wrench (E8), and clean it with a spritziled rag (don't use compressed air). Should be a very simple job. See if this solves the problem before doing anything else.

My experience with other people, who have had the ETS light come on, is that it often indicates a weak ignition system. Begin by replacing the platinum spark plugs with the exact ACDelco plugs that came in the car (likely Part No. 41-928). Also, replace the fuel filter.

angelsolt

i have a 1997 chevy cavalier and i cant find the est button. can you help me out please?

angelsolt

sorry ETS LIGHT..

skerdehur

The 1997 cavalier doesn't appear to have a switch for turning off and on ETS; however, misnblu posted instructions for installing your own switch (specifically in a 97 cavalier). It appears pretty easy. Check it out at http://www.quad4forums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=d74d61e6b2fb0b5fea8c1a3686e4b44c& t=7057&page=2.

skerdehur

Sorry, I thought you had a 97. Regardless, I know for a fact that the 98 doesn't have an ETS switch. Now, if your looking for the ETS off Light, it is at the bottom left corner of the IPC.