How To Reset the Service Stabilitrak Light on a GMC Sierra

The GMC Sierra not only delivers incredible towing and hauling capabilities, but it also has many well-thought-out features that contribute to a confident and safe driving experience. One of these features is StabiliTrak, a cutting-edge technology that improves handling over various road conditions and reduces the risk of accidents.

If the system malfunctions, you’ll see the “Service StabiliTrak” light come on in your dashboard. However, if you know there isn’t anything wrong with your StabiliTrak system, you can simply reset the light. Check out this helpful guide to find out how to reset the service light for your GMC Sierra’s StabiliTrak system.

Resetting the StabiliTrak Service Light

When you see an illuminated StabiliTrak service light in your dashboard, it may indicate a variety of issues, from a faulty StabiliTrak control module to a traction control malfunction. However, the light may sometimes show up due to a minor software or hardware glitch. Fortunately, resetting the Service StabiliTrak light in your GMC Sierra is a quick and easy job. Here’s what to do:

• Make sure you haven’t accidentally pressed the StabiliTrak button and there isn’t any sign of damage on it, such as water damage.
• Put your Sierra in park, and turn it off.
• Calmly turn the steering wheel clockwise all the way, and then turn it counterclockwise all the way.
• Wait for 15 seconds before turning on your vehicle.

This should be enough to make the StabiliTrak service light go away. If the message remains, you can try to get rid of it by following these steps:

• Turn off the engine again.
• Open the hood, and look for the battery.
• With a pair of pliers or wrench, carefully disconnect the battery’s negative terminal. It’s important to note that removing the negative terminal first can help you avoid an electrical mishap.
• After you’ve disconnected the battery, wait for about 10 minutes to allow any residual electrical charge to disperse.
• Next, reconnect the battery’s negative terminal, and make sure it’s securely fastened.
• Finally, start your truck, and let it run for a few minutes. The system will conduct a self-check and turn off the Service StabiliTrak light if the underlying problem has been resolved.

How To Fix a Bad StabiliTrak System on the GMC Sierra

If you’ve tried both the methods above but the Service StabiliTrak light is still on, it probably means that there’s a problem with your StabiliTrak system or other components of your truck. Identifying the culprit behind the message can be a daunting task, as it may appear due to a wide range of problems, such as a worn spark plug, a clogged fuel injector, a bad fuel line or filter, brake problems, traction control issues, a malfunctioning StabiliTrak sensor or control module, or a faulty power steering sensor.

In most cases, fixing an error with the StabiliTrak system is a task that requires professional expertise and equipment. So, the best thing to do is to take your Sierra to your local GMC service center for a StabiliTrak service light diagnosis. The factory-trained technicians there can help you identify and repair any problems that may be causing the system to malfunction.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad StabiliTrak System?

When your GMC Sierra’s StabiliTrak system isn’t functioning properly, it can have an impact on your driving experience and even jeopardize your safety. Fortunately, a faulty StabiliTrak system isn’t hard to detect, as it often lets you know that it needs attention. Look out for the following signs if you suspect there’s a problem with your StabiliTrak system.

Difficulty Turning StabiliTrak On and Off

StabiliTrak comes with a switch that you can use to activate and deactivate it. If you’re having difficulty toggling the system on and off, it may mean the switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Ineffective Cruise Control

StabiliTrak is designed to help your Sierra stay on the road in an emergency situation. This means it’s also related to the cruise control function. If you find that your cruise-control system isn’t activating or behaving as it should, you may be dealing with a fault in your StabiliTrak system.

Faulty Traction Control

Your truck’s traction control system uses the same sensors as StabiliTrak. StabiliTrak controls the lateral movement of the vehicle, while traction control helps prevent the wheels from spinning unnecessarily. So, if your traction control light shows up, it may be an indication that your StabiliTrak system is having issues.

Loss of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Function

In your Sierra, there’s one module that controls both the ABS and StabiliTrak systems. When ABS isn’t working properly, StabiliTrak may also fail to function as intended during an emergency, as it relies on the braking system to control the vehicle. Consequently, you may see both the Service StabiliTrak and ABS lights appear in the dashboard.

Is It Expensive To Fix the StabiliTrak System?

The cost of repairing a malfunctioning StabiliTrak system varies depending on a number of factors, including the issue with the system and the amount of time required to complete the job. Generally, you should expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for a simple diagnosis, repair, or part replacement. More complicated repairs can cost up to $500.

The time needed to repair a faulty StabiliTrak system depends on the auto repair shop or service center you go to. The process usually takes at least one hour, but you have to be prepared to wait three to five hours if a full diagnosis is required.

Get Reliable StabiliTrak Maintenance and Repair Services at #1 Cochran Buick GMC Youngstown

If you own a GMC Sierra in Youngstown, Ohio, and you’re having problems with your StabiliTrak system, consider bringing your truck to #1 Cochran Buick GMC Youngstown for a diagnosis. Our state-of-the-art service center has the most advanced automotive diagnostic and service equipment and a devoted team of factory-certified technicians who know GMC vehicles inside out. This enables us to identify and fix any StabiliTrak issues with unparalleled precision and efficiency. Furthermore, we offer hard-to-beat prices and awesome service specials to ensure you’ll get the best deals on the services you need. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.

Black GMC by Truck Hardware is licensed with CC BY 2.0 DEED