When your car starts to slip or veer off course, electronic stability control systems like StabiliTrak kick in to help you stay in control.
But when this safety feature fails — it can throw everything off.
If you’re dealing with a Service StabiliTrak warning light or vehicle control issues, understanding the StabiliTrak repair cost can help you prepare for what’s next.
In this guide, we’ll break down how StabiliTrak works, what repairs typically cost, and what triggers the Service StabiliTrak warning light, so you know how to deal with it.
This Article Contains:
- What Is StabiliTrak?
- How Much Does a StabiliTrak Repair Cost?
- What Are the Symptoms of a Failing StabiliTrak?
- How Often Does the StabiliTrak System Need Repairs or Maintenance?
- How to Troubleshoot and Reset Service StabiliTrak Message
- 3 FAQs About the StabiliTrak System
What Is StabiliTrak?
StabiliTrak is General Motors’ (GM) proprietary vehicle stability control system, featured in many modern vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Buick, and Cadillac.
StabiliTrak is a network of sensors and control modules that work together to keep your vehicle stable, especially during sharp turns, sudden maneuvers, or on slippery roads.
It constantly monitors how your vehicle moves and how the wheels are aligned. If it senses you’re beginning to lose control (like skidding or oversteering), the system can automatically apply braking to individual wheels or adjust engine power to help bring you back on course.
But like any complex stability control system, StabiliTrak isn’t immune to problems — and when it fails, you’ll often see a Service StabiliTrak warning.
So, what does the Service StabiliTrak message mean?
It means there’s a problem with your vehicle’s stability control system. The message can be triggered by a bad sensor, low battery, or issues with the steering, brakes, or wiring.
How Much Does a StabiliTrak Repair Cost?
Resolving the “Service StabiliTrak” warning light can cost anywhere between $100 and $13,000. The exact amount depends on what’s causing the issue and your vehicle’s make and model.
Here’s a rough breakdown of the repair costs (labor included):
- Sensor replacement: $200–$500
- Steering system repair: $100–$1,050
- Brake repair: $115–$1,500
- Engine repair: $2,000–$13,000
But catching issues early may help you avoid a more expensive StabiliTrak repair down the line. Let’s take a look at the key signs your electronic stability control system might be failing.
What Are the Symptoms of a Failing StabiliTrak?
If you notice the following issues, a StabiliTrak repair might be necessary:
- “StabiliTrak Off” warning message or dashboard light: An illuminated “Service StabiliTrak” warning light on your dashboard or a “StabiliTrak Off” warning message indicates that the system has detected a fault and may be temporarily disabled.
- Difficulty toggling the StabiliTrak button: If the StabiliTrak button doesn’t respond or is hard to toggle, it could signal a faulty switch or a malfunctioning StabiliTrak system.
- Loss of engine power: If your vehicle struggles to accelerate, maintain speed, or climb hills, especially intermittently, it could point to a StabiliTrak-related loss of engine power.
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) or traction control malfunctions: Since StabiliTrak shares sensors and modules with the anti-lock brakes and traction control system, issues in one can affect the others. You might see multiple warning lights appear at once.
- Cruise control not working properly: StabiliTrak can affect cruise control, a system that maintains a steady speed without constant pedal input. So, failure to activate or erratic behavior may point to a Stabilitrak problem.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Poor mileage can result from inefficient power distribution or increased friction, both of which may happen when your vehicle stability control system isn’t working properly.
- Check engine light: While not exclusive to StabiliTrak, an unexpected check engine light could be triggered by issues within the vehicle systems that stability control interacts with.
How Often Does the StabiliTrak System Need Repairs or Maintenance?
There’s no fixed maintenance schedule for the StabiliTrak system. Since it’s a computerized system, issues usually arise due to sensor faults, wiring problems, or software glitches — not regular wear and tear.
Fortunately, a major StabiliTrak repair is rare. In many cases, a simple reset is enough to clear the Service StabiliTrak warning and get all vehicle systems working again.
How to Troubleshoot and Reset Service StabiliTrak Message
If your Service StabiliTrak warning light is on simply because the system was turned off manually, you can usually turn it back on by holding the StabiliTrak button for a few seconds.
But if the “Service StabiliTrak” message stays on due to a fault, it’s best not to tackle it yourself. These systems are complex and directly affect your vehicle’s safety. An incorrect repair or misdiagnosis could lead to poor handling, traction loss, or further damage.
Your best move?
Let a professional mechanic take over the car repair.
Here’s how they typically fix StabiliTrak system issues based on where the fault lies:
A. Steering System Repairs
The mechanic will check for damaged wiring, misalignment, or sensor issues. Depending on what’s found, they may:
- Realign the steering column
- Replace faulty sensors like the steering angle sensor or position sensor
- Repair broken wiring or connectors
- Swap out the steering wheel if it’s physically damaged
B. Brake-Related Issues
StabiliTrak works closely with the braking system, so the mechanic will:
- Top off low brake fluid
- Inspect components like the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake module
- Replace malfunctioning sensors (e.g., wheel speed sensor or fluid level sensors)
- Repair or replace worn brake parts as needed
C. Engine & Control Module (ECM) Problems
Faults in the engine or ECM can also affect StabiliTrak. The mechanic might:
- Replace spark plugs, the throttle body, or related components
- Repair ECM wiring issues or damaged connectors
- Address faulty sensors that feed data to the control module (like the throttle position or speed sensor)
- Install a new ECM if the original unit is beyond repair
D. Dashboard and Display Fixes
Problems in the instrument cluster or driver info center can trigger false warnings. The mechanic may:
- Clean corroded contacts
- Replace damaged wiring
- Resolve electrical shorts behind the dashboard
E. Other System Conflicts
Sometimes, the StabiliTrak warning is triggered by related systems — like Lane Keep Assist or Traction Control.
For example, if a sensor in the steering system fails, it can throw off both systems. Fixing the root cause often clears the StabiliTrak message as well.
And if everything’s been repaired but the warning light still won’t go away?
Your mechanic will reset the system to clear the code and restore proper function.
3 FAQs About the StabiliTrak System
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about the StabiliTrack system:
1. Can I Drive with a Service StabiliTrak Light On?
Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended for your safety.
Driving with a malfunctioning StabiliTrak system compromises your vehicle’s stability and traction, especially in poor weather or on uneven roads.
If your Service StabiliTrack light is on, it’s safest to pull over and consult a qualified mechanic before continuing your journey.
2. What Causes a StabiliTrak to Malfunction?
Several factors can cause a StabiliTrak problem, including:
- Faulty wheel speed sensor, steering angle sensor, or yaw rate sensors
- Low battery voltage or electrical issues
- Corroded or loose wiring connections
- Malfunctioning components in the brakes
- Software errors in the control module
3. How Is StabiliTrak Different from Traction Control?
Traction control kicks in when your wheels start to slip, preventing them from spinning during acceleration on slick surfaces. StabiliTrak, on the other hand, steps in after your vehicle begins to veer off course.
As a built-in safety feature, StabiliTrak helps you regain control by adjusting engine power or braking individual wheels. It often works alongside other advanced driver-assist features like lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking to keep you safe in any challenging driving condition.
In short, traction control manages grip, while StabiliTrak manages direction and stability.
Don’t Let a StabiliTrak Issue Throw You Off Track
A StabiliTrak issue can throw off your ride — but getting it fixed doesn’t have to throw off your day.
With AutoNation Mobile Service, there’s no need to visit a repair shop.
Our expert technicians come to you, diagnose the problem, and handle the car repair right from your driveway. We also handle other safety-related issues like forward collision alert warnings, low brake fluid, and steering system repair codes — all backed by our 12-month/12,000-mile warranty.
We’re available 7 days a week, and easy to book online.
Get rid of that StabiliTrak warning light today.