RedHonda

I thought I saw a thread for this before, but I couldn't find it now so I'm starting this one.

I have a 2003 Accord Coupe, 120k miles, V6 Auto.

My questions are fairly simple, how bad is it that my TCS light comes on almost randomly? What's making the light come on? How can I fix it & how much would that cost? and can this lead to a more serious problem?

Also if you've had this problem you can tell me what it has or hasn't done to your car, and how you dealt/are dealing with it.

Some quick examples: I can do some serious wheeling (semi-serious haha) and nothing, everything is fine. Sometimes I can be sitting at a stop light and it will come on. I can drive 12 hours to FL without it coming on, or it might come on before I get out of the drive way...

Thanks for the help guys...

KWayRacing

You most likely are having brake light switch issues. You can have this system diag. by the dealer or a good aftermarket Honda shop. You could scan your ECM for any temporary DTCs some powertrain DTCs will make the TCS do this also. Brake light switches are very cheap and easy to replace.

RedHonda

Sounds like an easy enough fix.. What's a DTC?

KWayRacing

Diagnostic trouble code

RedHonda

Thanks

RedHonda

Where is it? and How do you replace it? Thanks

creator1322

My issue was that the 3rd brake light was burnt out. I replaced and the TCS came on a few more times after the new bulb, but hasn't happened in months now.

Check ALL your brake lights.

Good luck!

HONDAPARTSMANMIKE

^ makes no sense... the 3rd brk light has nottin to do with the tcs light...

KWayRacing

^ correct. Thats called a very lucky coincidence.

RedHonda

Still haven't figured out how to change the brake light switch...

BLKFLSH

This may, or may not help.

RedHonda

Thanks, I'll work with it.

TheAsian

With out a DTC cant really help you with any issues. I would take it to honda and have it scanned. They can access any code in your car while other scan tools like auto zone wont have a clue.

Im betting though it is a intermittent sensor failure. Their are alot of sensors that are involved with the VSA system. And the Brake pedal sensor is one of them. So unless you want to save money and just start testing every sensor which some require taking out seats and moving carpet get it scanned and let us know what the code is and what your local dealer feels should be the correct action in fixing the issue.

RedHonda

How much should I expect to pay for a scan?

RedHonda

BTW thanks for all the good ideas guys...

tomas21

Anyone know the exact part number for the Break Light Switch?

Was going to check out Autozone or Honda.

RedHonda

I'll say this, I have taken the brake switch out & cleaned it.. figured I'd try that before buying a new one.. & the TCS light has not come on since.. YAY!!!!