Damaged ABS Sensor Change
In the UK, every car registered since 2004 has been required to have anti-locking braking systems (ABS) as standard. So what is ABS, how does it work, and how do you know if your car needs an ABS wheel sensor replacement?
What is ABS?
ABS stands for anti-locking braking system, and is an extremely important safety feature.
How does ABS work?
ABS uses an electronic controller, combined with a series of sensors and valves, to prevent a car's wheels from "locking" during emergency braking. It can also help reduce the chances of skidding on wet roads. When the controller detects (via the sensors) that a car's wheel is beginning to lock up and risk a skid, it rapidly releases and reapplies pressure to the brake, which keeps the wheel rotating and stabilises the vehicle.
The Importance of ABS and Tyre Pressure for a Safe Drive
Maintaining your vehicle's ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and tyre pressure is crucial for a smooth and safe drive. ABS prevents skidding during sudden stops, giving you better control, while proper tyre pressure ensures optimal handling and fuel efficiency. Regular checks on both can significantly enhance your driving experience, providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of accidents. Drive smart and safe by making these checks a part of your routine.
ABS speed sensors
An ABS speed sensor (also known as a wheel speed sensor) is a small electronic device on each wheel.
While there are some variations, most ABS sensors are placed close to a special rotating encoder (tone) ring, which generates an electric impulse each time the wheel completes a full rotation. The faster the wheel rotates, the more frequent the impulses. This information is transmitted in real-time to the controller, which compares the performance acrosss all of the wheels and adjusts braking pressure as needed.
What happens if an ABS sensor stops working?
If an ABS sensor stops working, both the Antilock Braking System and the Vehicle Stability Control systems are effectively disabled. You should see at least one warning light on the dashboard come on.
What are the other signs that the ABS sensor is faulty/damaged?
There are four key signs that the ABS sensor is faulty. The first has already been mentioned: the warning lights should come on on your dashboard.
The second is that you may experience a pulsating/pumping brake pedal when applying the brakes.
The third and perhaps most obvious sign is that you will lose the anti-lock braking function.
The fourth sign is that other safety functions such as stability control or hill-start assist stop working. These rely on the same sensors as the ABS, so if you are struggling with traction or notice handling is trickier when you brake quickly, this could well indicate a faulty/broken sensor.
How Protyre can help
If you think one or more of your ABS sensors may need replacing, you can contact your nearest Protyre garage for advice. You can find the closest one to you online.
The cost of an ABS sensor replacement will vary depending on how many sensors need replacing.
Protyre also offer an extensive range of tyres should you need to replace any of your existing ones. This includes products from Pirelli, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Michelin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whilst it is possible to change an ABS sensor yourself if you have extensive knowledge and skills, it is generally recommended that you seek professional help. With such a central component in a safety-critical system, it is best not to take any risks.
The most-common causes sensor problems are corrosion, damage to the sensor wires, damage to the encoder ring, and improperly installed wheel bearings.
This cost is affected by a range of factors, but, taking the figures, the average wheel speed sensor replacement cost in the UK is around £250 per sensor including parts and labour.
