The “ESP BAS” warning light on a Chrysler Town and Country indicates that there is an issue with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Brake Assist System (BAS).
This warning light may appear for a variety of reasons, including a malfunctioning sensor, a damaged wiring harness, or a problem with the ESP/BAS control module.
To diagnose the issue, you can use the guide below, or take your Chrysler Town and Country to a certified mechanic or dealership to have it properly diagnosed and repaired.
The mechanic will use a diagnostic tool to read the error codes stored in the vehicle’s computer system, which will help to identify the specific issue causing the warning light to appear.
Chrysler Town and Country ESP BAS Symptoms
| Symptom | Diagnosis |
|---|---|
| “ESP BAS” warning light appears | There may be an issue with the ESP/BAS system, such as a malfunctioning sensor, damaged wiring harness, or problem with the ESP/BAS control module |
| Traction control system engages at inappropriate times | This may indicate a problem with the ESP system, as the traction control system is closely tied to the ESP system |
| ABS warning light is on | The ABS system may be affected by a problem with the ESP system |
| Vehicle stability is compromised | If the ESP system is not functioning properly, the vehicle may not handle or respond as expected, which can affect stability and safety while driving |
| Reduced engine power | In some cases, the ESP system may reduce engine power to help maintain stability, so a malfunctioning system may result in reduced engine power |
You really won’t feel any of the symptoms of the ESP BAS system not functioning as you drive normally. You will notice they aren’t there in an emergency situation though.
ESP BAS Light Causes: Chrysler Town and Country
Just like with any other major vehicle problem, you’re going to want to get a reading of your Town and Country’s diagnostic trouble codes.
You can use a good code scanner, or you can take it to the local parts store and see if they will scan it for you. Most of them are happy to do so.
You’ll want a scanner that can read the codes from your wheel speed sensors, ABS, and chassis. If you do opt to purchase a code scanner, just be aware that the cheaper ones only read the engine codes. That’s fine most of the time, but the problem causing the ESP BAS light is not going to be engine related.
Once you get the codes, it’ll narrow down what you need to repair. Here are the most common causes of the ESP BAS light coming on:
Steering Angle Sensor
The steering angle sensor is one of, if not the most, common causes of the ESP BAS light to come on. As mentioned above, make sure to turn the steering wheel twice to the right, twice to the left, and finally back to the center. This resets the steering angle sensor in your Town and Country.
Wheel Speed Sensor
The ESP and BAS systems measure the speed of all four of your Town and Country’s wheels. When the wheel speeds are no longer equal, they will apply corrective measures to make sure that you stay in control of the vehicle. These are easy to replace, and have their own diagnostic codes, that’s why a scanner is so important.
Brake Switch
Something as simple as the brake switch is known to cause the ESP BAS light to come on. Replacing it is simple and cheap.
Is it Safe to Drive with Your Town and Country’s ESP BAS Light on?
Is driving with the ESP BAS light on going to leave you stranded on the side of the road? No it is not. Is it safe? It’s not as safe. It’s like driving a vehicle from the 70’s that doesn’t have traction control or ABS. You don’t always need these systems, but when you do they can save your life and keep you from crashing.
Conclusion
- The ESP BAS light is letting you know that vital safety equipment in your Town and Country is not working.
- Before doing anything else, make sure to cut the wheel all the way right twice, left twice, and then to the center. This can recalibrate the steering system (see video above).
- An OBDII scanner will tell you which component is causing the light to come on.
- It’s usually a sensor that ends up needing replaced
- Repair it as soon as you can.