Traction-control warning or TC off
The light may indicate intervention, deliberate switch-off or a fault; its meaning depends on whether it flashes, stays on and appears with other warnings.
Last reviewed: 23 July 2026 · Exact behaviour varies by make, model and year
Normal behaviour
A traction-control light may flash when the system is actively controlling wheelspin. A steady "TC off" indication may confirm that the rider deliberately disabled the system. Some models perform a start-up check.
Possible fault
A light that stays on unexpectedly, cannot be reset or appears with ABS or engine warnings may mean traction control is unavailable because of a fault.
What to do
Ride within the available grip and assume the safety aid may be reduced or absent. Restore the normal road setting if appropriate and follow the handbook's reset procedure. Arrange inspection if the indication remains unexpectedly.
Possible causes
- •Deliberate rider selection
- •Normal system intervention
- •Wheel-speed sensor or related ABS fault
- •Low voltage
- •Wiring, control-unit or engine-management fault
- •Non-standard wheel, tyre or drivetrain configuration
When not to ride
The light alone may not require stopping, but stop if it accompanies abnormal engine behaviour, braking changes or another serious warning.
Sources
- The Highway Code, warning displays and vehicle maintenancehttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/annex-6-vehicle-maintenance-safety-and-security
- Honda motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/my-bike/honda-motorcycles-owners-manuals/
- Yamaha motorcycle owner's manualshttps://www.yamaha-motor.eu/gb/en/service-support/owner-manuals/