Are you experiencing issues with your Chevy Cruze, such as shaking, loss of power, and the service stabilitrak message appearing? In this article, we will guide you through the process of diagnosing and fixing the service stabilitrak traction control problem in a 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze.
First, let’s discuss the steps to diagnose the problem:
Step 1: Drive the car around the neighborhood to trigger the service stabilitrak message and get the engine light to come on.
Step 2: Use a code reader to pull the engine light codes. In this case, the code received was P0304, which stands for a misfire on cylinder four.
Based on this code, it could be a plug or ignition coil issue. To fix the problem, follow these steps:
Step 3: Disconnect the battery to clear out the codes.
Step 4: Remove the cover on the top of the engine by popping it off. Use a torx T30 bit to remove the two bolts securing the cover.
Step 5: Inspect the plugs and ignition coils. In this case, the plugs had not been changed in a while, so it was decided to replace both the plugs and the ignition coil.
Step 6: Use compressed air to blow out any dirt or debris around the plugs before removing them.
Step 7: Use a wrench and an extension to slowly turn off the plugs. Since it was a misfire on cylinder four, all plugs were replaced.
Step 8: Install the new plugs, ensuring they are pre-gapped to 0.028. Optionally, apply anti-seize on the threads to make future plug changes easier.
Step 9: Screw in the plugs tightly, ensuring they are not cross-threaded. Torque them down to about 20 foot-pounds or tighten them until they are snug.
Step 10: Repeat the previous steps for each plug. Use needle-nose pliers if the socket gets stuck.
Step 11: Install the new ignition coil by sliding it down onto the plugs, ensuring it seats properly.
Step 12: Plug the coil back in and lock it in place.
Step 13: Reinstall the torque screws, tightening them enough to hold the cover in place.
Step 14: Replace the cover and tighten it down.
Step 15: Reconnect the battery terminal and start the car.
After completing these steps, take your vehicle for a test drive to see if the service stabilitrak message and the engine light come back on. If they don’t, it indicates that the issue has been resolved.
In the case discussed in the video, changing the plugs and ignition coil successfully fixed the problem. The rusty plug was likely caused by water getting into the plug through the missing undercarriage underneath the engine bay.
Please note that the steps provided in this article are specific to the 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze. If you have a different vehicle, the process may vary.
In conclusion, diagnosing and fixing the service stabilitrak traction control problem in a 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze involves identifying the misfire code, replacing the plugs and ignition coil, and taking precautions to prevent future issues. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the problem and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly once again.
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