Home FAQ

How do I fix my ABS light?

The ABS warning light indicates a fault in your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system. It may still brake normally, but the ABS function may be disabled. Diagnose the issue promptly and proceed with caution, especially on wet or slippery roads.

Understanding the ABS light and what it means

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) prevent wheels from locking during hard braking. When the system detects a fault—due to sensors, wiring, the hydraulic pump, or the control module—the warning light illuminates. In many cars, the ABS light may be accompanied by the traction or brake warning lights. A persistent or flashing ABS light means you should have the system diagnosed and repaired to restore full braking performance.

What triggers the warning

Several common issues can trigger the ABS light, including a faulty wheel speed sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a faulty ABS tone ring, low brake fluid, blown fuses, or a malfunctioning ABS pump/modulator. Because the exact cause varies by vehicle, a diagnostic scan is typically needed to pinpoint the source.

Safety steps you can take right now

Before diving into repairs, take these safety-oriented steps to minimize risk if you notice the ABS light while driving.

Reduce speed gradually and increase following distance; avoid hard or emergency braking, especially on wet or icy roads.

Check the brake fluid level when the car is parked. A low level can indicate a leak or worn brakes, which may affect overall braking performance.

Inspect for obvious issues under the hood or near each wheel, such as leaks or damaged wiring, if you know what you’re looking for.

Ensure fuses related to ABS and braking systems are intact. A blown fuse can disable ABS functionality.

These quick checks can help you rule out simple problems. If the light remains on after performing them, a diagnostic scan is the recommended next step.

DIY checks you can perform to narrow down the cause

With basic tools and some caution, you can narrow down potential causes before visiting a shop. Do not attempt repairs that require special know-how or pressurizing the braking system yourself.

Test each wheel speed sensor and its wiring for obvious damage or disconnection. Look for torn cables or corroded connectors near the wheel hubs.

Inspect the reluctor rings (tone rings) near the wheel hubs for dirt, damage, or missing teeth, which can give erroneous speed readings.

If you have access to a basic OBD-II scanner with ABS capability, retrieve any stored fault codes and note their descriptions.

Have the brake fluid level and condition checked by a technician if you see signs of leakage or the fluid appears dirty.

These checks help you prepare for a diagnostic visit and can sometimes point to a specific sensor or wiring issue that a shop can fix more efficiently.

What to do if the ABS light stays on or comes on intermittently

If the warning persists after basic checks, or if it comes back intermittently, a formal diagnostic is needed to identify the faulty component and plan repairs.

Have a mechanic perform an ABS-enabled diagnostic scan to pull fault codes and freeze-frame data. This is the quickest way to identify the likely culprit.

Translate the fault codes into a probable cause—common suspects include wheel speed sensors, sensor wiring, tone rings, ABS pump, or the control module.

Prioritize components based on symptoms and codes. Replacing a faulty wheel speed sensor or repairing a damaged wiring harness is typically less costly than replacing the ABS pump or control module.

Do not attempt to clear fault codes without fixing the underlying issue; codes can reappear and the warning light will return if the fault persists.

Once a mechanic confirms the faulty component and completes the repair, the ABS light should stay off; the vehicle’s safety systems will be restored.

Professional repair options and what to expect

ABS-related repairs vary in complexity and cost. A typical repair workflow may involve sensor replacement, wiring repairs, cleaning or replacing tone rings, or more extensive work on the ABS pump or modulator. The exact cost depends on the car make, model, and which component is affected.

Common fixes by component

Wheel speed sensor: replacement or cleaning, with wiring inspection.

Reluctor/tone ring: cleaning or replacement if damaged or bent.

ABS wheel sensor wiring: repair or replacement of damaged wiring and connectors.

ABS pump/modulator: potential rebuild or replacement, often the most expensive option.

Brake fluid or hydraulic leaks: routine service or repair of leaks in the brake system.

Costs and timelines (ballpark figures)

Wheel speed sensor: typically $100–$300 for parts, plus labor.

Wiring repair: varies widely, often $150–$500 depending on accessibility.

Tone ring replacement: around $150–$400 in parts and labor.

ABS pump/modulator replacement: can range from $800–$2,000 or more, plus labor.

Diagnostic scan: commonly $100–$150 (may be applied toward repair cost).

Prices vary by region and vehicle, so obtain a written estimate after a diagnostic assessment.

Summary

The ABS light signals a fault in your anti-lock braking system. Start with safety-focused checks—drive cautiously, verify brake fluid level, inspect fuses, and look for obvious wiring issues. If the light persists, use an ABS-enabled diagnostic tool or visit a professional to retrieve fault codes and identify the faulty component. Common fixes involve wheel speed sensors, wiring, or tone rings; more complex failures may require ABS pump or module work. Prompt diagnosis and repair help ensure your braking remains as safe as possible in all conditions.

Final notes

Always treat an illuminated ABS light as a safety-critical warning. If you’re unsure about the cause or the vehicle’s braking feel changes (pedal feel, stopping distance, or braking efficiency), tow or drive at reduced speeds to a qualified automotive shop for a thorough inspection.

Can I fix an ABS light myself?

To adjust, simply use a screwdriver to push the sensor inwards until it fits snugly. There were concerns from previous tips that pushing the sensor all the way in might cause damage, but in this case, it's safe and effective--resulting in the ABS light being turned off and the system back in working order.

How do I get my ABS light to go off?

To get the ABS light to go off, first perform a simple system reset by disconnecting the car battery for a few minutes or by using a diagnostic scan tool to clear any codes. If the light comes back on, it indicates an underlying issue that needs addressing, such as checking and topping up the brake fluid, cleaning wheel sensors, or inspecting the ABS fuse. If these steps don't work, a professional mechanic should be consulted to diagnose and fix the problem.
DIY methods to reset the light

Disconnect the battery: Turn the ignition off, disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery, and wait for about 5-15 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge. Reconnect the battery and start the car to see if the light stays off.
Use a diagnostic scan tool: Connect an OBD-II scanner to your car's port, retrieve the error codes, and then use the tool to clear them. This is the most effective way to reset the light if there's an underlying issue that is not a major fault.
Try a quick reset: Some vehicles have a quick reset procedure. Turn the key to the "on" position (without starting the engine). When the lights come on, quickly press the gas pedal three times. Then, start the engine. If the light remains on, driving the vehicle above 15 mph may help the system realign itself.

Steps to take if the light returns
If the light comes back on, it means there is an underlying issue that requires further diagnosis.

Check your brake fluid: The ABS light can turn on if the brake fluid level is too low. Check the fluid reservoir and top it up if needed. Also, check for any brake fluid leaks.
Inspect the ABS wheel sensors: The wheel speed sensors can get dirty and trigger the light. Try cleaning them to see if this resolves the issue.
Check the ABS fuse: A blown fuse can also be the cause. Consult your owner's manual for the fuse box location and check the ABS fuse.
Seek professional help: If the light persists after trying these steps, it is best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. They can use their advanced diagnostic tools to find the specific problem and repair it, as it could be a faulty sensor or a more complex issue with the ABS module.

Important safety note: If the ABS light comes on at the same time as the brake warning light, do not drive the car, as your regular brakes may not be working correctly. This could be a dangerous situation.

Can I drive my car with the ABS light on?

You can typically drive with the ABS light on, but you should do so with extreme caution, as the anti-lock braking system will not be available. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible, especially if both the ABS light and the brake warning light are illuminated, as this indicates a serious problem with the regular braking system.
This video explains the risks of driving with the ABS light on: 1mTorqueCarsYouTube · Apr 9, 2023
If only the ABS light is on

Drive cautiously: Avoid sudden or high-speed driving.
Increase following distance: Give yourself more time to stop.
Avoid bad weather: Do not drive in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice, as your vehicle will not have the ABS support.
Check brake fluid: A low brake fluid level can sometimes cause the ABS light to illuminate.
Try a reset: Turn the car off, wait a moment, and restart it to see if the light goes off, as it could be a minor glitch.

If both the ABS and brake lights are on

Do not drive the vehicle: This is a serious warning that your normal braking system may be compromised.
Stop immediately: Pull over to a safe location and have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for a professional inspection.

What is the most common cause of the ABS light to come on?

The most common cause of the ABS light coming on is a faulty wheel speed sensor, though a low brake fluid level is also a very frequent reason. Other common causes include damaged wiring, a malfunctioning ABS control module, or issues with the hydraulic pump.
Common causes for the ABS light

Faulty wheel speed sensor: These sensors monitor the rotation of each wheel. If a sensor is dirty, damaged, or malfunctioning, it sends incorrect data, triggering the light.
Low brake fluid: The ABS uses hydraulic fluid from the main brake system. If the fluid level drops below a certain point, the light will come on to indicate a problem, which could be a sign of a leak or worn brake pads.
Damaged wiring or connectors: Wires connecting the speed sensors to the ABS module can corrode or fray, leading to a loss of signal. This is especially common in areas with road salt.
Faulty ABS module: The control module is the "brain" of the system. If its internal circuits fail, it will not be able to process data correctly and the light will turn on.
Blown fuse or relay: Like most electronic systems, the ABS has a fuse that protects it. If this fuse blows, the system will shut down and the light will illuminate.

What to do when the light is on

Check the brake fluid: Ensure the fluid reservoir is filled to the correct line and that you are using the proper type of fluid.
If both the ABS and brake lights are on: This is a more serious issue, indicating a problem with the regular braking system itself. It's not safe to drive and you should have the vehicle serviced immediately.
Consult a professional: A certified mechanic is usually required to properly diagnose and fix ABS issues, as they can be complex to pinpoint.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.