Is it okay to drive with the ABS light on?
As a car owner, seeing the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light illuminate on your dashboard can be concerning. This warning light indicates that there is an issue with your vehicle's braking system, specifically the ABS. Understanding what this means and how it affects your driving is crucial for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.
What Does the ABS Light Indicate?
The ABS light serves as a warning that the anti-lock braking system is not functioning properly. This system is designed to prevent your wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control. When the ABS light is on, it could mean several things:
- The ABS module is malfunctioning.
- There is a problem with the wheel speed sensors.
- The brake fluid level is low.
- There is an issue with the ABS pump or relay.
Can You Drive with the ABS Light On?
While it is technically possible to drive with the ABS light on, it is not advisable. Here are some reasons why:
- Reduced Safety: Without a functioning ABS, your vehicle may not stop as effectively during emergency braking situations, increasing the risk of skidding or losing control.
- Potential for Further Damage: Ignoring the ABS light could lead to more significant issues within the braking system, resulting in costly repairs down the line.
- Legal Implications: In some regions, driving a vehicle with known safety issues can lead to fines or penalties if you are pulled over.
What Should You Do If the ABS Light Comes On?
If you notice the ABS light illuminated, here are the steps you should take:
- Check Brake Fluid: Ensure that your brake fluid is at the appropriate level. Low fluid can trigger the ABS light.
- Inspect for Other Warning Lights: If the brake warning light is also on, it indicates a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
- Visit a Mechanic: Schedule an appointment with a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue. They can run a diagnostic test to pinpoint the problem.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can drive with the ABS light on, it is not safe or recommended. The ABS is a critical component of your vehicle's braking system, and any issues should be addressed promptly to ensure your safety on the road. If you find yourself in this situation, take the necessary steps to investigate and resolve the problem as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABS warning light serious?
If the light remains on, you need have our service department check it out immediately. Since the ABS helps with vehicle control and stopping distances, it is an important safety feature to maintain. If both the ABS and the brake system light come on at the same time, your vehicle is no longer safe to drive.
Will ABS light go away on its own?
As you start your car, the ABS light will come on automatically. This is because your car always checks the ABS system on starting; if there's no problem the light will go off. If the light stays on, it's a sign that there's a problem with your car's ABS system.
Is it illegal to drive with ABS light on?
You can continue to drive your vehicle with an illuminated ABS light because you'll still be able to brake. However, this isn't advisable because your vehicle's ABS is likely turned off and you and your passengers won't benefit from its safety.
How long can I drive my car with the ABS light on?
If your ABS light comes on while you're driving, you can continue driving to your destination, as your normal brakes will still be working. However, we do recommend taking your car to a professional as soon as possible, as it can be dangerous to continue driving without a functioning ABS.
How to fix ABS warning light?
In such cases, turning off and restarting your vehicle might reset the system and turn off the ABS light. However, if the light comes back on, this suggests an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed. Check the ABS fuse: if the ABS fuse is blown, it could cause the ABS light to come on.
What is the most common cause of the ABS light to come on?
The four common reasons that typically cause this light to turn on include a malfunctioning ABS module, low levels in the fluid reservoir, broken wheel speed sensors, or the system is turned off. Your ABS actually shares some important components with another system in your vehicle: your traction control system.
How much does it cost to fix ABS?
The average cost for ABS module replacement is $1174 to $1301. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much ABS module replacement costs in your local area.
How do I get my ABS light to go off?
The ABS warning light can ONLY be turned off by either doing the needed repair or pulling the bulb (which will prevent it from passing any inspection as the light needs to be on when turning the key to on position, as well as being illegal to do).
Why is my ABS light on but my car drives fine?
In general, you can still continue driving even if your car's ABS light is on. This is because your car's brakes still function as usual and can still slow your vehicle down. However, your car's tires are at risk of getting locked under heavy braking and that limits your maneuverability in emergencies.
Is ABS light expensive to fix?
Many ABS components are very accessible, so labor for most repairs will not run high typically in the $100 to $150 range. A typical ABS sensor will cost about $80 to $125 however, on some makes and models the sensor is part of a hub/bearing assembly (GM, Ford, some others) and the price will rise to around $350.
