I have a 1997 ES 300 with around 241,000 miles on it. About a couple of months ago I saw the traction control off light come on and took it to the mechanic. He said it is traction control is on and just flashed the warning away from the dash. It came back on and I don't know why. I have not gotten into any accidents recently and the car seems to be ok except it does slide here and there on certain terrain. Any advice?

 

Is your check engine light on as well?

Could be the ABS sensor.

A OBDII scan at AutoZone or equivalent would give you the code though.

 

Mine did the same last year. I read somewhere here about dirty wheel sensors. Found all four, removed them and cleaned sensor and inner wheel, part that they read when the wheel turns, with spray electrical cleaner. Two bolts , 10mm I think, hold them on. Take them out gently, rock back and forth, and clean away. Easier if you put car on stands and take tires off. I rotated tires same time, might as well. Light never came on again!

 

Have you checked that you didn't accidentally hit the TRAC OFF switch under the steering wheel?