The Active Stability Control (ASC) system warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard may have caught your attention if you own a Mitsubishi. There is a warning light that appears on the Mitsubishi dashboard that reads “ASC System Service Required.” This warning light indicates the problem with one or more of the components of the Active Stability Control system.
Warning lights can be triggered by a variety of factors, including problems with ABS, traction control, or stability control systems, faulty wheels, faulty yaw rate sensors, low battery voltage, failure of the control module, low brake fluid, a blown fuse, or software problems.
Do you know what ASC System Service Required is and how it works?
There are several components and systems in modern vehicles that work together to make driving safer and more comfortable. An example of this type of system is Active Stability Control (ASC). During cornering, acceleration, and braking, the ASC system keeps the vehicle stable and controlled. In order to regulate braking and engine power, it uses sensors, electronic controllers, and actuators.
During an emergency, your life can be saved by the ASC system. In addition to reducing the risk of a rollover, it also reduces the risk of oversteering or understeering during high-speed maneuvers.
There are three different functions that the ASC (Active Stability Control) system performs:
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS):
With ABS, your vehicle will not skid or lose control when the wheels lock up during braking. As soon as a wheel starts locking up, ABS sensors alert the ASC system and adjust brake pressure accordingly.
Traction Control
When accelerating on slippery surfaces like snow or ice, traction control prevents wheel spin. In order to regain traction, the ASC system reduces power or applies the brakes when a wheel slips, detected by the wheel speed sensors.
Stability Control
During maneuvers at high speeds or sudden changes in direction, stability control helps maintain vehicle control and stability. To determine if the vehicle is understeering or oversteering, the ASC system uses sensors to measure vehicle speed, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration. Using the brakes or reducing engine power, it helps keep the vehicle stable and in control by braking or reducing power to the appropriate wheels.
It is important to note, however, that the ASC system may malfunction or experience faults, resulting in an illumination on the dashboard of the ASC system service required light. It indicates that the ASC system needs to be checked and serviced when the service required light appears.
What causes the ASC System Light to come on?
In addition to problems with ABS, traction control, and stability control, there are other factors that can trigger the ASC system warning light. In case there is a malfunction or fault in the vehicle’s control or stability system, this warning light will illuminate. Vehicle warning lights can be yellow or amber and look like a car with squiggly lines behind them, but they vary depending on the model and make of the vehicle.
Wheel speed sensor malfunctioning
In most cases, a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor is responsible for the warning light. ASC monitors every wheel’s speed, which is relayed to the system by the wheel speed sensor. The system may malfunction and trigger the warning light if any of the four sensors fails, preventing the system from receiving the correct speed data.
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ABS system malfunction
The ABS system can also malfunction and cause the ASC system warning light to illuminate. A fault in the ABS system can trigger the warning light on the ASC system, since the ASC system works in conjunction with the ABS system. A malfunctioning hydraulic pump, faulty sensors, or damaged wiring may cause problems with the ABS system.
Yaw Rate Sensor Fault
The ASC system warning light may also illuminate when the yaw rate sensor is faulty. By measuring the rotation rate around the vertical axis of the vehicle, the yaw rate sensor determines the vehicle’s angle of yaw. In order to determine if the vehicle is understeering or oversteering, the yaw rate sensor is critical. A malfunctioning sensor may prevent the ASC system from accurately detecting the vehicle’s motion, resulting in instability and loss of control.
Faulty Battery
The ASC system warning light can also be caused by low battery voltage. Power supply stability is essential to the operation of the ASC system. Battery problems can cause system malfunctions and trigger the warning light if the voltage levels are low or discharged.
Failure of the control module
Depending on sensor readings, the ASC system activates the brakes or engine power using electronic control modules. The warning light may appear if one or more control modules malfunction, causing the system to not function correctly.
Brake fluid is low
Keeping the brake fluid level stable is critical to the effective operation of the ASC system. It is possible for the brake fluid level to become low and impact the hydraulic pressure in the system, causing the warning light to flash.
A Blown Fuse
Occasionally, the ASC system malfunctions due to a blown fuse in the electrical circuit. There can be short circuits caused by blown fuses due to electrical faults or overloading the system.
Software Issues
Software issues can cause the ASC system to malfunction, just like any other computer-based system. Errors or bugs in the programming of a system can cause software issues. In order to identify and resolve software issues, a specialized diagnostic tool may be required.
ASC system warning lights may illuminate for a number of reasons, as you can see. If you want to restore your vehicle’s ASC System to full functionality, you need to identify and address the cause as soon as possible.
Faulty ASC System Symptoms
Warning light illuminates on ASC system
Dashboard warning lights illuminate when the ASC system is malfunctioning. According to my previous description, the ASC system warning light is typically yellow or amber and shows an outline of a car. The reason behind this light being on should be investigated by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Vehicle handling instability
Instability and difficulty controlling your vehicle may result from a faulty ASC system. High-speed maneuvers or sudden changes in direction may cause the vehicle to sway or bounce. Maintaining control can also be challenging when the vehicle feels less responsive to steering inputs.
Traction loss
With the ASC system, you can maintain traction and prevent wheel spin during acceleration by combining it with the ABS and traction control systems. It is possible for your vehicle to slip or slide when the ASC system is faulty, particularly on slippery surfaces.
Braking Problems
Besides regulating brakes and maintaining vehicle stability, the ASC system also works with ABS. It may feel like the brakes are spongy, unresponsive, or may not engage altogether if the ASC system is malfunctioning.
Unusual Noises
Noises such as grinding or whirring can sometimes be produced by a faulty ASC system. Several components of the ABS and traction control system, including hydraulic pumps and wheel speed sensors, may be malfunctioning, resulting in these noises.
Limp Mode
It is possible for the ASC system to malfunction, causing your vehicle to enter a state of “limp mode,” which limits the engine power and speed in order to protect the drive train. A warning light typically illuminates during this mode, signaling that service or repair is needed.
Vehicle Not Starting
Occasionally, faulty ASC systems can prevent the engine from starting or cause the engine to start but immediately stall. In most cases, the engine cannot receive the necessary signals for starting when there is a fault in the electronic control unit of the ASC system.
4WD Light Coming On
The 4WD warning light can sometimes illuminate if your vehicle has an ASC system with a four-wheel drive (4WD) system. Possible causes of this issue include faulty ASC sensors or electronic control units, which interfere with the function of the 4WD system.
Not working cruise control
It is common for ASC systems to be integrated with cruise control systems in vehicles. In the event of an ASC system fault, the cruise control may not operate properly or perform erratically, making maintaining a constant speed difficult.
What to do to fix it
The ASC warning light can be located by checking a few things yourself, while others will require professional assistance. You can troubleshoot the issue by following these steps:
ASC System Fuse Check
A fuse protects the electrical circuit that controls the ASC system. This warning light may appear if the fuse blows, resulting in the ASC system not working properly. If the ASC system fuse is not functioning, you can check the fuse box of the vehicle. Replacement of blown fuses with similar rating is recommended.
Inspect the wheel speed sensors
An ASC system monitors the speed of each wheel and relays that information to the wheel speed sensors. The ASC system can malfunction if one or more sensors are faulty, causing a warning light to appear. If you see any signs of damage or corrosion on the wheel speed sensors, you can replace them. You may be able to fix the problem yourself if you observe any problems, such as a broken wire or a dirty sensor. If you have faulty sensors, it is best to have them replaced by a qualified mechanic in most cases.
Level up your brake fluid
In order for the ASC system to function effectively, the brake fluid level needs to be stable. Low brake fluid levels can disrupt hydraulic pressure and trigger the warning light, causing the system to malfunction. The brake fluid reservoir can be checked for low levels of brake fluid, and topped up if necessary. A consistently low brake fluid level may indicate a leak or another brake system issue that needs to be addressed professionally.
Check for damaged or loose connections
In order to function correctly, the ASC system consists of a complex network of sensors, control modules, and electrical connections. In these cases, a loose or damaged component can lead to the ASC system malfunctioning and triggering the warning light. Inspection for corrosion and breaks in the insulation can reveal damage to the connections and wires. Wires and connectors that are damaged should be replaced and any loose connections should be tightened.
Take a good look at your tires
The pressure in your tires might be incorrect or your tires may not be aligned. Your vehicle’s performance can be greatly affected by tire alignment and pressure, especially if it has an ASC system. The ASC system can be triggered by misaligned tires or incorrect tire pressure if they interfere with it. It is important that you check the alignment and inflation of your tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
To diagnose the ASC system, a qualified mechanic should be consulted if none of the above steps work. If there is an issue with your vehicle’s ASC system, they will be able to identify it and provide solutions for returning it to full functionality.
Is it safe to drive with the ASC System Service Required Warning on?
ASC System service required warning lights should be taken seriously when they appear on your dashboard. If the vehicle is displaying this warning, the vehicle is not stable, is not traction, is not ABS, or is not driving in 4WD.
If the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) does not work properly in a case of an emergency stop, driving with this warning light can be extremely dangerous. It will be more difficult for the vehicle to be able to withstand heavy braking, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
In the absence of ABS, the brakes will still work, but they will be harder to use and less predictable to stop the vehicle. It is therefore essential that you get it fixed right away in order to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.
What Are The Steps To Reset the ASC Warning Light?
An OBDII ABS scanner is required to reset your vehicle’s ASC warning light. Using it is as simple as following these steps:
It should be easy to resolve the issue if you follow the steps listed above.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers the ASC System Service Required Light?
In most cases, sensors malfunction, liquid levels are low, or electrical problems are the cause of the ASC System Service Required Light to illuminate.
Can I continue driving if the light is on?
It is not advisable to continue driving with the ASC System Service Required Light on. There is a risk of accidents occurring as a result of compromised vehicle stability and control.
How often should I check the ASC system?
For early identification of potential problems, it is recommended to check the ASC system regularly, especially before long trips or during routine maintenance.
Are DIY repairs safe for ASC system issues?
It would be suitable to do the repairs yourself if the issue was minor, such as checking the fluid level or inspecting the sensors. Professional mechanics should, however, handle complex problems.
What is the typical cost of professional ASC system maintenance?
Depending on the complexity of the issue, professional ASC system maintenance can cost more or less. Delaying repairs instead of intervening in time is more cost-effective.
Conclusion
This light indicates that there is a fault or malfunction with the vehicle’s stability control system, which is an essential warning sign. It ensures that your vehicle stays stable and controlled at high speeds thanks to the ASC system.
A qualified mechanic should be consulted if the light comes on and needs to be repaired. A driver who ignores the warning sign may become less stable and controllable, resulting in an accident.
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