I have a 2006 Chevy Cobalt and today as I was driving, my ETS warning light came on and stayed on for about 10 miles. Then I stopped at a store, turned the engine off, went in and stayed for about 15 minutes and when I returned the ETS warning light went off. I then went on for about 30 miles and the ETS light came on again. Oh, and while it was on,the car felt like it was pulling or wanting to slip out of gear or something like it, but only when I slowed down and then speeded up again. What caused this and is it something serious that I need to have checked out immediately? No other lights came on, just the ETS warning light.

Replace the spark plugs (ACDelco only) with the exact plugs that came in the car.

You may want to have a computer scan done to determine if there are any codes stored in the computer.

I agree with TX about 95% of the time, but not on this one. The electronic traction control is designed to cut off fuel injectors and spark to reduce wheel slippage if the system detects a traction problem. The traction system gets its information from the ABS sensors. So the feel of pulling or slipping is the system fighting with itself.

You probably have a trouble code stored in the computer. Have it checked out

Oh, and TX is right about ONLY using AC Delco plugs on GM vehicles. Far fewer problems than with other brands.

ETS (Enhanced Traction System) is used to stop wheel slip, by reducing engine output. When the ETS Off Light is ON, it means the ETS has been disabled, because you have a engine problem and the computer cannot reduce power to the wheels since the engine might stall. Therefore, the computer disables the system. Some cars come with a switch by the shifter that turns the system on and off, because, if you get stuck in the snow, traction control will keep you stuck.

Generally, when the ETS Off Light is ON (the only light on and not accompanied by a Check Engine Light), you may have a wheel speed sensor not responding. This can happen due to metallic dust buildup on the sensors. Use an external Torx socket (E8) and a spritzled rag to remove and clean each wheel sensor.

My experience with most people, who have had the ETS Off Light come ON (accompanied by a CEL), is that it often indicates a seriously weak ignition system. Begin by replacing the platinum spark plugs with the exact ACDelco plugs that came in the car. The algorith in the PCM can disable the ETS for a host of serious engine-related problems.

TX, thanks for your added perspective on this one. Maybe you can teach this old dog some new tricks!!

Mea Culpa