The antilock braking system (ABS) uses a warning light to alert the driver if the antilock system has been deactivated. The light usually yellow, amber or orange comes on briefly when starting your car.
However, if the light stays on, especially after a sensor replacement, it means that the whole system is not working accordingly.
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Why is the ABS light on after replacement?
Reasons that may be associated with the ABS light coming on may include low levels in the fluid reservoir, malfunctioning of the ABS module, incorrect sensor repair, or a possible system turn-off.
The ABS systems are significant in helping you steer away during an emergency by restoring traction to the tires. Thus the ABS can be said to share the components with the traction control system which helps navigate the car in emergencies.
However, the ABS does not stop your car faster than the traditional brake system but still allows you to have better control of your car. Thus, offers you the stability required to steer you away from an accident.
Common Reasons Why ABS is Still On After Sensor replacement
Low levels in the fluid reservoir
The brake system is hydraulic and thus highly depends on the cylinder’s power pressing against the fluid close to the brake pads.
Therefore, the brake system requires consistent fluid to be adequate to come to an uninterrupted stop. A slow leak means the fluid drops, thus causing faultiness in your brake system.
Malfunctioning ABS Module
As discussed above, the ABS shares essential components with the traction control system designed to ensure your car wheels roll smoothly.
Thus, when the traction control system detects the possibility of one of the wheels spinning irregularly. Power is cut off from the engine until stable traction is established. As a result, an issue with the traction control system will cause the ABS lights to come on.
Poor sensor repair
The ABS module scans itself regularly and thus when the ABS lights on again even after you have replaced your sensor, it means that there is an issue.
An incorrect repair will prompt the ABS light and this could be a result of poor or damaged wiring caused by either age or motion of the car.
The system turned off
Cars have an option to turn the ABS control on and off. When you turn the system off, the ABS light will pop up on the dashboard to possibly warn you that an essential safety feature is not working.
Therefore, you can consult your manual to turn it off and get it working accordingly.
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)
This often requires manual resetting to clear the error code, thus, can also be corrected by consulting a guide.
How to fix this issue?
Repair the sensors correctly. It is essential to consider the wheel speed sensor and confirm if it works well. You can test the ABS wheel sensor and replace it if it is not working in the proper condition.
Sensors can often accumulate dirt, limiting the ability to get correct readings.
Therefore, you must check the different sensors and clean them. also, scan for cases of poor wiring which may be a reason the car’s ABS light continues to stay on.
Another method involves the use of fused bridged wires using an OBD connector. Jumping the two ports can get rid of the ABS lights.
However, if the methods used do not work, you must get your car checked and serviced by a professional.
Does resetting the ABS sensor make the sensor go off?
Yes. Resetting the ABS can cause the light to go off with the common practice of switching it on and off the ignition. Removing the battery terminal cables is another way to achieve this, starting with the negative battery terminal and then the first positive cable.
This method aims to drain the remaining electrical power in the system, which clears the light from the dashboard. However, with every start-up, the ABS module will have to check it; thus, if not well fixed, it may still display itself.
How to reset the ABS sensor?
- Disconnect the positive cable from the car battery.
- Hold your brake pedal down to drain your car’s electrical system to reset the car’s computer.
- Plug the cable back to restore power; if there is no issue, it should reset the light.
- If the light persists, you will need to check your sensor. You may need to change or clean it and reset the computer.
- An ODB code reader can also be effective in giving a proper diagnosis of your car’s electrical problem.
Final thoughts
The ABS lights can be solved without visiting any repair shop even after sensor replacement. Following the detailed steps can positively impact resetting your light.
However, in taking good care of your car, you must take it for exemplary service to a professional when the ABS light persists.
