Your car has warning lights on the dashboard to alert you when anything goes wrong. So what does it mean when the ESP BAS Light occurs? It may not be as recognizable as check engine light or ABS light, but you do not want to ignore this warning.
This guide will let you know what the ESP BAS Light means, plus the 3 most common causes. We will also describe how to fix the fault so you can drive with no dashboard warning lights.
What does the ESP BAS Light Mean?
The ESP BAS Light shows a problem with your vehicle’s electronic stability or brake assist program. Common reasons for the light include wheel speed sensors that are defective, a bad steering angle sensor, a bad brake switch, or other failures in the braking system.
The light comes on for a variety of issues, everything from minor to serious. However, the codes can be read with a portable code scanner designed for those systems.
What causes ESP BAS Light to come on?
When a car light comes on it means a problem has arose. When the ESP BAS light comes on it means there is a problem in either the Brake Assist System malfunctions, or there is an issue the Electronic Stability Program malfunction.
The ten most prevalent fixes for the ESP BAS light coming on include:
#1. Defective Steering Angle Sensor.
Today’s cars come equipped with advanced sensors, one of which is for the steering angle. Unfortunately, it also causes most of the reasons for the ESP BAS Light to come on.
The steering wheel sensor keeps the steering wheel aligned with the wheels of the car. The sensor enables the car to understand which way to turn the steering wheel by following input given by the steering angle sensor.
The sensor can become disconnected or poorly connected, which can also make the ESP BAS light come on your dashboard. If this is the case, it could also mean the sensor has failed.
#2. Bad Wheel Speed Sensor.
Each wheel has a speed sensor to determine how fast they are moving. The ESP BAS system is also watching the wheel speed sensors to determine wheel traction and indicate traction loss.
Under normal conditions, the ESP BAS Light can illuminate if traction is lost temporarily, but will shut off once traction has been regained. If it does not shut off, a wheel speed sensor could be worn out.
#3. Failed Brake Switch.
The brake switch can cause the rear lights to come on. Even though this part is expected to last forever, there’s a chance it has simply failed.
The switch is what turns on the rear brake lights when you push down the brake pedal. If the switch fails, other motorists behind you may not have any indication that you’re coming to a stop or slowing. For this reason, the failed switch should be replaced as soon as you can ascertain that there is a defect.
#4. Wiring Issues.
There are a lot of wires coming from all the different sensors to the ABS module. The wiring to the ABS wheel speed sensors are affixed to the wheels, and will sometimes get damaged.
This is not very common with newer cars because they tend to be very protected, but things can happen if you are unlucky. The bad part about wiring issues is the difficulty in finding it, especially if you are not experienced in the car repair industry.
How To Fix The ESP BAS Light?
To find out what caused the ESP BAS light to come on, the simplest way is to read the trouble codes with an OBD2 scanner that makes sure you read the trouble codes from the ABS control module in your car. This will help you find or begin to troubleshoot the issue instead of taking the chance to just throw parts at it and guess.
Below are some other common things that can potentially fix the ESP Bas warning light:
#1. Recalibrate Steering Angle Sensor.
Occasionally, the steering angle sensor may just require calibration and you could possibly complete the calibration in your driveway without specialized tools.
Once inside your car, you want to sit behind the steering wheel and slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock side to side. You may also need to cycle the key for the calibration to take hold.
An OBDII scanner can also recalibrate the steering angle sensor and is sometimes necessary. Obtain the code, then recalibrate.
#2. Replace Steering Angle Sensor.
If calibration doesn’t fix the issue, you’ll need to replace the sensor, but this is usually a simple task with a socket and ratchet.
Make sure to disconnect the batteries first (safety first!). Next, you will want to get the airbag off of the steering wheel by pushing on the clip on the back of the steering wheel. Make sure the steering wheel is locked in the center position, and use your socket and ratchet, and remove the main nut.
Make a note of where the wheel was positioned so when it is time to put the wheel back on you will know where the center position is. After pulling the clock spring off, you can see the sensor. Replace the sensor and put everything back together, and turn the vehicle on. You’ll also need to recalibrate the system to eliminate the light.
#3. Replace Wheel Speed Sensor.
Each braking disc has a wheel speed sensor behind it. Replacing a bad sensor is generally simple because they’re easy to get to, but rust can sometimes make them a bit stubborn to remove.
Simply raise the vehicle and remove the wheel where the sensor is located. Once the sensor is disconnected, you can easily replace it with a new one.
#4. Install New Brake Switch Sensor.
You can diagnose issues with the brake switch sensor, which is one of the cheaper sensors.
It is located above the brake pedal. You will unhook the defective sensor and put in a new one. You may also have to clear codes that turned the light off.
#5. Repair Brakes.
Time for a brake job? Get it done and check to see if that fixes the light. Put the car on jack stands and take the wheels off. Once unbolted, make sure you find a place to rest the brake calipers so the brake lines don’t break.
You can take the rotor off and see if you need to replace it. If there is still plenty of material, you may just want it resurfaced. Finally, it isn’t hard to replace the brake pads.
When the caliper is stuck, the advanced brake system experience will come into play for professionals. Otherwise, you will need some help.
How much does it cost to fix the ESP BAS light?
The fixing cost of the illuminated ESP BAS light depends on the cause of the problem and labor cost.
| Part | Cost |
|---|---|
| ABS Pump replacement | $290 to $1100 |
| Wheel Sensor replacement | $190 to $260 |
| Brake Pad replacement | $100 to $310 |
What Sensor Does ESP Use?
The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) utilizes various sensors (brake switch, wheel speed sensor, steering angle sensor, etc.) to allow the electronic system to manage the brakes.
The ABS is imperative for your vehicle, too, because it interacts with the brakes. When the ESP BAS light is illuminated, you likely have an issue with the traction control.
FAQs.
What does it mean when your ESP BAS light comes on?
The ESP/BAS light indicates that there is an issue with your Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and/or your Brake Assist Program (BAS). These safety systems work together, and a fault in either, or both, will cause the trouble light to come on.
Is it okay to drive with the ESP BAS light on?
While your vehicle will continue to run with an illuminated ESP BAS light, it’s best not to ignore it. Driving with a malfunctioning ESP or BAS system can be dangerous in rainy or snowy weather.
Can I still drive with ESP light on?
The customer does not need to take any further action and can continue driving. If the ESP light is on continuously (and the ESP/ESC system is not switched off), you should contact your Volkswagen Retailer to have the system checked.
Is ESP warning light serious?
The ESP warning light indicates that an issue that needs attention. Here’s what you should do: Slow down: since the ESP helps with vehicle stability, it’s best to slow down, especially if road conditions are poor. Get it checked: at your earliest convenience, take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.