ABS Sensor Service Video

The ABS sensor reports wheel speed to the anti-lock braking module, which uses that signal to keep the wheels from locking under hard braking. When one sensor stops reporting, the ABS and traction control systems both shut down and a warning light comes on.

This video shows where the sensor sits at each wheel and how it reads the toothed reluctor ring that spins with the hub. It also shows what a contaminated or damaged sensor looks like once it comes off the knuckle.

The clearest sign is an ABS light on the dash, often joined by the traction control light. Your regular brakes still work, but the anti-lock function is off. Intermittent faults show up as the ABS pulsing at low speed on dry pavement or the speedometer briefly dropping to zero

Our technicians retrieve wheel-specific fault codes and compare live speed data from all four wheel speed sensors. A faulty sensor may show zero or erratic readings while the others report consistent wheel speeds. The connector, harness, and reluctor ring are checked too, because each can set the same code. When testing confirms the fault, our [ brake system repair service explains the full process.

Winter road grit in Grant County packs into the gap between the sensor tip and the reluctor ring. The moisture that follows corrodes the connector pins until the signal drops out.

If your ABS light is on, call Affordable Automotive Services at (509) 764-0000 or visit your Moses Lake car care team to book an inspection. We help drivers coming in from Ephrata and Quincy, too.