Chassis, generic

C0085 Traction Disable Indicator

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

Covers the traction-disable indicator, the lamp that shows traction control has been switched off by the driver or by the system, as driven or monitored by the ABS/ESC module. The module lights this lamp when traction control is disabled and monitors the output; this code is set when the indicator circuit is open or shorted, the lamp does not respond, or commanded and observed states disagree. It concerns the indicator path, not the traction function; the driver may lose the on/off feedback while control itself behaves normally. It is closely tied to the traction-disable switch and the active-indicator lamp. Traction-control patents describe the driver being able to disable intervention, which this lamp announces. No code-specific public bulletin was confirmed; the entry follows the SAE J2012 generic definition.

Likely causes

Open or shorted indicator circuit
Lamp request not reaching the cluster
Failed indicator bulb or driver

Symptoms

  • Traction-off indicator stuck on or off
  • No feedback when toggling traction control
  • Failed lamp self-check

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€20–350
Time0.3–2 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

tcs off lamp

Related codes

C0084C0089C008A

References: en.wikipedia.org, patents.google.com.