- The ABS Light comes on:
The most obvious sign of a problem with the ABS is that the ABS Light will come on. The ABS Light is the equivalent of the Check Engine Light, except only for the ABS. When the light gets illuminated, this is usually the first sign that indicates that there may be a problem with the ABS and perhaps an issue with one of the system’s sensors. - Loss of Traction and, or Stability Control:
The stability and traction control systems may also use data from the ABS sensor for stability control, hill-start assist, and other functions. A properly functioning ABS will minimize traction loss, especially under wet and icy conditions. When driving under wet or icy roads, and there is an experience of tire slipping or loss of traction for more than a brief moment when stopping or taking off, the ABS may not be functioning correctly. It is typically due to either a problem with the module or a problem with the sensors. - Longer Vehicle Stoppage Time:
The ABS works in tandem with the rest of the braking system during the heavy braking condition to aid in slowing down the vehicle, and traction loss and skidding should be minimal. While safe driving is advisable, if the car is taking longer to stop under heavy braking conditions or is experiencing traction loss and skidding, that may indicate a problem with the system. The ABS component is the module and the sensors, so a problem in its operation will either be with the module or the sensors. - Unstable Vehicle during Braking:
The ABS activates upon heavy braking to quickly slow the vehicle without locking up the brakes and sending it into a skid. The ABS wheel speed sensor uses the data it collects to modulate the brake pressure to prevent lock-up and traction loss during hard stops. With a faulty sensor, preventing brake lock-up and avoiding a skid becomes much harder, especially on wet or icy roads. - Erratic ABS Functionality:
Another common symptom of ABS sensor failure is an ABS that sometimes works and sometimes doesn’t. An erratic ABS can compromise your vehicle’s safety since you’ll never know when it’s properly working, and there’s no guarantee that it will work when you need it most.
What to do:
Spotting these aforementioned signs of ABS sensor failure means you can have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired sooner. If your ABS Light comes on, or you suspect you may be having a problem with one or more of the ABS sensors, have the vehicle inspected for exposed wires or broken connections or tested for OE-specified resistance with an ohmmeter by a professional technician to determine the exact nature of the problem, and if any repairs needed. They will also be able to replace your ABS Sensors if need be.
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