Ask Experts Questions for FREE Help !
Ask
    punkin1406's Avatar
    punkin1406 Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #1

    Jul 12, 2009, 03:43 PM
    Automotive question
    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.
    TxGreaseMonkey's Avatar
    TxGreaseMonkey Posts: 16,761, Reputation: 5597
    Uber Member
     
    #2

    Jul 12, 2009, 08:24 PM

    Replace the spark plugs (ACDelco only) with the exact plugs that came in the car.
    this8384's Avatar
    this8384 Posts: 4,564, Reputation: 485
    Ultra Member
     
    #3

    Jul 13, 2009, 10:36 AM

    You may want to have a computer scan done to determine if there are any codes stored in the computer.
    RickMN's Avatar
    RickMN Posts: 244, Reputation: 52
    Full Member
     
    #4

    Jul 13, 2009, 03:17 PM

    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.
    TxGreaseMonkey's Avatar
    TxGreaseMonkey Posts: 16,761, Reputation: 5597
    Uber Member
     
    #5

    Jul 13, 2009, 05:15 PM

    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.
    RickMN's Avatar
    RickMN Posts: 244, Reputation: 52
    Full Member
     
    #6

    Jul 13, 2009, 05:23 PM

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

    Mea Culpa

Not your question? Ask your question View similar questions

 

Question Tools Search this Question
Search this Question:

Advanced Search

Add your answer here.


Check out some similar questions!

Automotive question [ 6 Answers ]

I have a 1991 Honda Civic DX 1.5L that has conked out on me. The problem appears to be no power getting to the spark plugs. I don't know what to do to fix it. A new distributor is costly so I don't want to replace it without knowing that's the problem. Any ideas?

Automotive help [ 2 Answers ]

I have a 2003 Honda Accord EX V6,the drivers seat will not warm up,but the back of the seat does get warm.I checked all the fuses and they are o.k.Any help would be appreciated.Thankyou

Automotive [ 1 Answers ]

On my 1976 Chevy pickup (350), I accidentally touched my battery cables to the terminals BACKWARDS for about 3 seconds. Now there is no power to any part of the truck... where might I start to trouble shoot this? Thanks a million, Jeff


View more questions Search