TRAC OFF lights came on while driving, cannot turn it off again...

[CX889]

Hi everyone, few days ago when I was driving along suddenly the TRAC OFF light came on and then afterwards I cannot turn it off by the switch. So after came home I turn off the car and turn the ignition switch to ACC, the light came on as usual and after the self-check thing (the funny clicking sound) activates, the TRAC OFF light turn off. But as soon as I started the engine, the light came on again. I check the manual and there is nothing mention about this case. So what would likely be the problem? Any insights?
My ODO is around 98K

[JvR]

Do you have traction controle in a 1997 Camry

In europe not before 2001 camry's

[rty]

My 1997 has it. It was an optional extra. I don't know why the light would go on though. Does the traction control work? I personally think it's fairly useless.

[CX889]

It just concerns me cuz it suddenly lights up without any reason and then i was unable to enable the traction control. Actually I've never feel the difference though. I just got paranoid it got light up...

[tran.man48]

There's probably something wrong with your traction control system. Basically you are driving w/out traction control, and it shouldn't affect safety or anything. Your car is still safe to drive.

Do you also have a CEL (check engine)? If anything, just take your car to the dealer or your mechanic and have them look at it. They should have a code reader to see what diagnostic codes are stored in the car's computer.

[CX889]

tran.man48, you guessed it right! I also have my CEL light up. But this is before my TRAC lights, I first thought it was to do with my O2 sensor since it's never been replace and my car is at 99K. So maybe it's about time to do a in-depth checkup anyways.

[islandboy57]

You might even be able to go to your local auto parts store (not sure what there is in Canada) and they should be able to read the code for you. Then you'd have to Google for the meaning and/or come here and ask.

As others have mentioned, you're just driving without TC. Sounds like a good time for a tune up

[frenum49]

The drive wheels on your trac equipped cam have speed sensors. Check that the connectors at the wheels are still plugged in and making good contact. Also look for chaffed or broken wires at pinch points and rub points around the axles. If you have been driving with grinding brakes, blow any ferrous metals that are clinging to the sensors off. If all this looks okay, disco the connectors and put an AC volt meter across the sensor terminals with the connectors removed and have a buddy spin the wheel. These sensors produce AC voltage and send that info to the computer. If any of the two sensors are not reading an AC signal replace them and your traction control will likely be functional once again. The computer cannot control wheel slippage without knowing how fast your wheels are spinning.

[sgpma69]

Same thing happened to my 99 Solara. Shop says it is most likely the switch on the console. I can't find anywhere to buy the switch. Anyone ever replace one themselves?