It’s a common question for vehicle owners experiencing issues with their car’s stability control system: “Can I use my OBD2 scanner to figure out what’s wrong with my track stability?” The short answer is, typically, no. Consumer-grade OBD2 scanners are designed primarily to read codes related to emissions. Systems like StabiliTrak, which is General Motors’ brand of electronic stability control, are not emissions-related.
This doesn’t mean you’re completely in the dark if your “Service StabiliTrak” light comes on. While your standard OBD2 scanner might not pull these specific codes, there are tools that can. High-end scan tools, the kind professional mechanics use, are capable of reading a wider range of codes, including those for systems like StabiliTrak and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Interestingly, many code scanners that are designed to read ABS trouble codes can often also read StabiliTrak codes. If you’re looking for a scanner that can access this information without breaking the bank on a professional-grade tool, consider one that specifically advertises ABS code reading capability. For instance, tools like dedicated Actron ABS scanners, or more versatile options from brands like OTC with ABS and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) functionalities, can often access StabiliTrak codes. Sometimes, a firmware upgrade might even enable reset functionality for these codes on certain ABS scanners.
It’s also worth noting a common misconception. If you’ve been told by a dealership or mechanic that StabiliTrak codes disappear and become unreadable, that’s generally incorrect. Codes related to ABS, SRS, and StabiliTrak are usually stored in the vehicle’s computer history until they are actively cleared using a compatible scan tool. This means even intermittent issues will likely leave a stored code that can be retrieved.
One frequent culprit behind intermittent StabiliTrak issues is the steering wheel position sensor. Many drivers spend a significant amount of time driving straight, which means certain parts of the sensor are used more than others. If a vehicle sits for a period, especially with the steering wheel turned off-center, the sensor might lose optimal contact. This can trigger the StabiliTrak system to shut down and set a code. Often, simply driving the vehicle and allowing the sensor to make better contact can resolve the issue, and restarting the car might clear the warning. While a new sensor is a more permanent fix, this characteristic of the sensor explains why these codes can sometimes appear intermittently, especially on older sensors that may be developing slight corrosion on the less-used sections. It’s somewhat similar to how a four-wheel-drive switch can benefit from being “exercised” occasionally to maintain good contact.
In conclusion, while your standard OBD2 scanner is unlikely to read track stability codes, exploring ABS-capable scanners or professional-grade tools can provide access to this diagnostic information. And remember, stored codes are persistent, and a common sensor issue might be behind those intermittent StabiliTrak warnings.
