ABS Light Still On After Sensor Replacement [3 Easy Fixes]

ABS light still on after sensor replacement! Well, this issue occurs if the mechanic repairs the sensor incorrectly. Therefore, some cars require resetting after making the ABS sensor replacement to erase the DTC code.

On top of this, the ABS light remains on if the ABS controller gets defective despite replacing the faulty sensor. Below, we will break down each of those issues that cause the ABS light to come on. So, stay in tune till the end.

Will ABS Light Go Off After Repair

ABS light comes on because of the dirty or defective wheel-speed sensor, loose wiring between the sensor and the ABS controller, and a faulty ABS control module. Once you fix these issues, the ABS light should go off. 

However, sometimes the ABS light doesn’t go off after repair. In the next chapter, we will disclose everything that causes the ABS warning light to come on even after sensor replacement. So, keep scrolling & reading. 

ABS Light Still On After Sensor Replacement [3 Easy Fixes]

This chapter will reveal every possible reason that causes the ABS light to come on even after replacing the sensor. 

Note: You Can also read how to disable the ABS light on Silverado.

1. Repair the Sensor Incorrectly

The ABS scans through itself constantly and the light will come on if there is a fault. Once you fix the issue, the light should go out when your car scans itself again. If the ABS light comes on again for the same thing with the same code, we bet you or the mechanic does it if you didn’t repair it correctly. 

Generally, you will get the speed sensor code because of damaged wiring to the sensor due to age and motion. Also, cracked wiring between the sensor and the module or connector can be the culprit. 

The mechanic who changed the sensor should inspect the wiring before heading over to replace it. On the other hand, if you made that replacement, you must check those areas for damaged wiring. 

We recommend you put a scan tool on your car, choose the live speed data from the sensors, and drive your car around. 

If you get 25 kph at each sensor, we bet the ABS module is at fault. Otherwise, there will be an issue with wiring if you see 25 Kph at every three wheels, but the left front shows 0. 

Also, don’t forget to inspect the ABS tone ring while replacing the sensor. The ABS light will come on if the tone ring gets worn out despite changing the sensor. 

2. A DTC is Still There

In theory, the light should go off once you replace the faulty sensor and your ABS module will get a solid reading from it. But if the light still comes on, we bet there is a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes). 

Of course, the light should reset itself. But sometimes you need to do it manually to clear the error code after replacing the ABS wheel speed sensor. So, you should reset the ABS light. If you don’t know how to do it, don’t worry as we will break it down at the end of the guide. 

You may also try to reset everything by disconnecting the battery. 

2. Defective ABS Control Module

New ABS sensor but light still on! Well, replacing a sensor will bring no luck if the ABS control module gets defective. Now, you may ask- how can I understand if the ABS control module is at fault? Well, you will observe the following issues when it gets bad: 

  • The ABS warning light will come on 
  • The brakes may lock up, even under normal braking
  • The brake pedal will become unresponsive

If you notice those symptoms, we recommend you replace or repair the ABS control module right off the bat. Regarding this, we recommend you get your car to a certified mechanic. 

Can ABS Sensor Be Repaired?

Cleaning the ABS sensor is what you can do. To clean the ABS sensor, you must jack up your car and remove the wheel. Once you remove the wheel, locate the ABS sensor and pull out the nuts or bolts that keep it in place. 

Once you detach everything, remove the ABS sensor gently. Then, take a rag to wipe away all the dirt, debris, and grease accumulated there. We don’t recommend you use chemical-based cleaners to clean the sensor. 

If the sensor looks so grungy, you can try a mild soapy solution and wash the sensor evenly. We recommend you follow the below tutorial to learn how to clean ABS sensors optimally. 

Can I Drive With ABS Sensor Light On?

Yes, you can drive your car with the ABS sensor light on. 

Every modern vehicle has ABS. It prevents the wheels from locking up when you brake your car hard and avoids uncontrolled skids. 

If the ABS warning light comes on while driving, understand the ABS is not functioning properly. Of course, your braking system will work. But the ABS may not engage when you need an emergency stop. We recommend you have your car to a mechanic if the ABS light remains on. It’s a safety feature and you don’t know when you need it. 

However, you shouldn’t drive your car when the brake system light comes on along with the ABS light. It indicates there is a serious problem with your vehicle’s braking system. If you drive your car in this condition, you pull yourself and others into an unwanted car crash. 

How To Reset ABS Light After Changing Sensor?

Resetting the ABS light after changing the sensor will be a piece of cake. Just follow the below steps to reset the ABS light once you replace the ABS sensor. 

  • Pull out the positive wire from your car battery. 
  • Let your car drain the electrical system by holding down the brake pedal. It will reset your vehicle’s central computer. 
  • Finally, pull the positive wire back into your car battery. We hope it will reset the ABS light. 

FAQs:

What happens if you remove the ABS fuse?

The ABS of your car gets power from the ABS fuse. If you pull the ABS fuse out, the ABS will lose its power and every function related to ABS will stop working. As a result, the ABS light will come on the dashboard.  

How long can you drive with the ABS light on?

You can drive with the ABS light on until the braking light comes on along with it. Though the braking system will work & stop your car, it may not work when you need an emergency stop. On the other hand, if the braking light comes on along with the ABS light, you must stop driving your car right off the bat as it indicates a serious braking issue. 

Will the ABS light go off on its own?

When you start the car, the ABS light comes on and off continuously for a few seconds. It is because the system is checking whether the ABS is working properly or not. If it detects any issue, the ABS light will remain on. Once you fix the issue, the light will go off automatically. 

Can worn brake pads cause ABS light to come on?

The ABS and braking system of your car works together though they are two different things. As both systems work together, worn-out brake pads may cause the ABS light to come on. 

Can bad brake fluid cause ABS light?

Yes, bad brake fluid can cause the ABS light to come on. Turns out, a brake fluid level or the fluid is leaking also responsible for turning the ABS light on. 

What causes the ABS sensor to fail?

The ABS sensor gets faulty if the wiring from the sensor to the ABS control module gets damaged. Therefore, a sensor covered with dirt and debris will also cause the ABS sensor to work erratically. 

Can low tire pressure affect ABS?

Yes, low tire pressure can affect the ABS and cause the ABS light to come on. 

How much does it cost to fix an ABS light?

You should spend around $100 to $150 to fix the ABS light-related issues.

Conclusion

The ABS light will come on even after replacing the faulty sensor due to an incorrect repair. If you replace the sensor by itself, don’t forget to inspect the wiring from the sensor to the ABS controller. 

Also, make sure the ABS tone ring is in good condition. Finally, inspect the ABS controller. Fortunately, we mentioned some signs of a bad ABS control module. If you notice them, repair or replace the ABS controller. 

Lastly, don’t forget to reset the ABS light after making any repair or replacement workflows. 

About John M

John contributed as a technical head at an automobile company just 2 years after his post-graduation in Automobile Engineering. He loves to lead a free life, so he left his job & started blogging. Now, he does research on every automotive problem, part & product and seeks a better solution & best products & shares his findings with his readers to help them as well as to minimize their struggle.

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