ESP BAS Light – Meaning, Causes (& How To)

Your car’s dashboard is filled with warning lights that tell you when something is wrong. What does the ESP-BAS light mean? While it might not be as recognizable as the Check Engine Light or ABS Light, you don’t ever want to ignore the alert.

An ESP BAS light indicates a problem in your vehicle's brake assistance program or electronic stability. This light can be caused by a defective steering angle sensor or defective brake switches. 

This guide will show you how to fix the ESP BAS Light. Also, we will show you how to correct the problem so that your dashboard does not flash with warning light. 

ESP BAS Meaning & Function 

The ESP BAS Light is an indicator of problems with either the brake assistance program or electronic stability program. As the other indicators on the dashboard, the light will alert you to an issue so that it can be fixed. 

There are many problems that can cause the light to turn on, from minor ones to more serious. However, the codes can be read with the help of a handheld code scanner that’s compatible with these systems. 

ESP BAS Light Causes

1. Defective Steering Angle Sensor

The steering angle sensor is an advanced sensor in modern cars. Unfortunately, the ESP BAS light also turns on because of this sensor. 

The steering wheel sensor keeps the steering wheel in line with the car’s wheels. The sensor allows the car to know which direction you are turning the steering wheel using the input from the steering angle sensor. 

A poor connection can cause the sensor to lose contact, which could lead to light not being emitted. This could indicate that the sensor is failing. 

RELATED: Signs of a Bad Steering Angle Sensor (& Replacement Cost)

2. Speed sensor on bad wheel

Every wheel has a speed sensor which measures wheel speed. These sensors are also part of the vehicle’s ESP BAS system. These sensors allow the ESPBAS system to detect when traction is lost and can be used to counter the problem.

Normal circumstances will cause the ESP BAS Light to come on if traction is lost temporarily. The light will turn off automatically once the problem is solved. If it doesn’t, there’s a chance that one of the wheel speed sensors is bad. 

RELATED: The Signs and Costs to Replace an ABS Sensor on a Wheel

3. Failure of Brake Switch

Also, the brake switch could cause the light not to turn on. Even though this part is supposed to last forever, there’s always the chance that it has failed. 

Push down on the pedal and the brake light will be activated. If it isn’t working, people behind you might not know that you are stopping or slowing down. That’s why the failed switch must be replaced as soon as you are aware of the defect. 

RELATED: Symptoms of a Bad Brake Light Switch (& Replacement Cost)

4. Problems with Wiring

Many wires run between the ABS control module and all of the sensors. There are many wires that connect to the ABS wheel speed sensors. Sometimes they can be damaged.

It is rare for newer cars to have this problem, though the wirings can be very well protected. It is very hard to spot wiring problems if they aren't obvious.

How to Fix ESP BAS Light

It is easiest to identify the cause of the ESP BAS lights by reading the codes using an OBD2 scanner attached to your ABS control module. This will enable you to identify the problem or begin troubleshooting rather than just guessing.

The ESP Bas warning lamp can be fixed by doing the following:

1. Recalibrate Steering Angle Sensor

Sometimes all it takes to calibrate the steering angle sensor is a simple reset. This can be done in your backyard without the need for special tools.

You can sit behind your car's wheel, and slowly turn it from one end to the other until the lock is in place. To calibrate the car, you might need to also cycle the key. 

An OBDII scanner may be used to calibrate the steering angle sensor in certain cases. Recalibrate the steering angle sensor as required by reading and understanding the codes. 

2. Replace Steering Angle Sensor

If the calibration doesn’t fix the problem, you might need to replace the sensor. This job can be done easily with a socket or a racthet.

Be sure to unplug your battery before you do this. Next, you must remove the airbag and clip from the steering column by pressing down on the clip on the rear. You will need to lock the steering wheel in its center. Then, use your socket or racthet for the removal of the main nuts.

Mark the wheel’s position, so you know where the center is. The sensor will appear after the clock spring is removed. It is easy to remove the sensor and replace it. Turn the car on by connecting everything again. For the light to come on, it will be necessary to calibrate and re-calibrate the system. 

3. Change the wheel speed sensor

You will find the wheel speed sensors behind every set of brake discs. Because of how easy it is to access, it’s relatively simple to replace a defective sensor, but sometimes it can get stuck by rust.

Lift the car and take out the damaged wheel. You can remove the sensor and place the replacement one easily. 

4. Replace Brake Switch Sensor

Your OBDII code scanner can help you find problems with the brake system sensor. This one, unlike other sensors is very affordable. 

This will be found above the brake pedal. The defective sensor can be removed and replaced by a newer one. It is possible that you will need to reset the codes which turned off the light. 

5. Repair Brakes

If it’s time for a brake job, get it done and see if it turns the light off. Place the vehicle on jack stands, and then take off the wheels. Make sure to rest the brake caliper somewhere after you have removed the bolt.

This is where you can take out the rotor, and replace it as needed. It is possible to have the surface resurfaced, if you still have enough material. Additionally, it’s not hard to replace the brake pads. 

When the caliper gets stuck, that is when it becomes a problem. If you do not have extensive knowledge about brakes, it might be necessary to hire a professional.