Code
C061B
Generic
C — Chassis
ECM Request - Forced Traction Control Disable
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- ECM commanding traction control disable (intentional request)
- Loss of CAN or LIN communication between ECM and ABS/ESC module
- Faulty ABS/ESC module or ECM software/firmware error
- Defective traction control switch or driver request input
- Wheel speed, brake, yaw, or steering angle sensor fault prompting disable
- Low battery voltage, poor ground, or intermittent power supply
Symptoms
- Traction control/ESC warning lamp illuminated on dash
- Message: 'Traction control disabled' or similar
- ABS warning or stability control lamp may also be lit
- Possible reduced engine torque or limp-home behavior
- Traction control will not engage during wheel slip
- Related drivability issues if ECM has limited engine functions
What to check
- Scan all modules and record stored/active/pendant DTCs from ECM, ABS/ESC, BCM and other modules
- Check live data for 'TCS request' or 'ESC enable' flags in ECM and ABS modules
- Verify battery voltage and charging system (at-rest and cranking)
- Inspect CAN/LIN bus continuity, termination resistors and high/low voltages
- Visually inspect wiring and connectors between ECM and ABS/ESC for corrosion, pin damage, and water intrusion
- Check traction control switch, brake-light switch and other driver input switches for correct operation
Signal parameters
- CAN message: ECM -> ABS/ESC TCS disable request flag (boolean)
- Wheel speed sensor signals (Hz or speed in km/h/mph for each wheel)
- Vehicle speed signal (derived)
- Yaw rate and lateral acceleration values
- Steering angle sensor position
- Brake light switch / brake pressure status
Diagnostic algorithm
- Retrieve and document all DTCs from ECM, ABS/ESC, and other modules. Note freeze-frame and timestamped events.
- Clear codes and attempt to reproduce the condition while logging CAN messages and relevant sensor data (wheel speeds, TCS request flag).
- Observe if ECM sets a TCS-disable request flag in live data. If present, inspect why ECM is requesting disable (look for engine or safety faults).
- Check communication: verify CAN high/low voltages with key on, engine off; compare termination resistance (approx. 60 ohms across CAN_H and CAN_L).
- Inspect wiring and connectors between ECM and ABS/ESC for damage, corrosion or water intrusion. Wiggle-test while monitoring communication and fault status if safe.
- Verify operation of traction-control/ESC enable switch and brake-light switch; replace or repair faulty switches as indicated.
- Test wheel speed, yaw, and steering angle sensors for correct signals and plausibility. Replace or repair faulty sensors or harnesses.
- Check battery/ground connections and charger/regulator performance; weak supply can cause module faults and disable requests.
- If communication or module faults persist, consult manufacturer service information for software updates or known module adaptions; perform module reprogramming if authorized.
- Replace modules only after confirming wiring, power/ground and communications are good and after following manufacturer pairing/procedure steps.
- After repairs, clear codes and road-test while monitoring to ensure the request no longer occurs and no related DTCs return.
Likely causes
- CAN bus message from ECM indicating disable request
- Fault or open in traction-control/ESC enable switch or input circuit
- Intermittent communication (U0100/U0121-style) between ECM and ABS/ESC module
- Wheel speed sensor abnormality causing ECM to request disable
- Low battery/weak charging system causing modules to disable functions
Fault status
Status
ECM requested forced traction control disable — verify communications, sensor inputs, and ECM/ABS status before repair.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0 - 3.0 hours
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