An ABS warning light means the anti-lock system is switched off: the car still brakes normally, but in an emergency stop the wheels can lock. You can drive carefully to the workshop, avoiding hard braking and slippery surfaces.
What it means
The ABS control unit has detected a fault and has gone into safe mode by disabling the function. The ESP light often comes on too, because the two systems share the same wheel speed sensors.
Most common causes
- Wheel speed sensor dirty, corroded or faulty (the number one cause)
- Damaged or encrusted reluctor ring
- Broken wiring near the wheel arch
- ABS fuse or relay
- Flat battery or low voltage during starting
- ABS control unit with faulty internal tracks
What to do right away
- Drive carefully: allow more braking distance and do not brake hard
- Have the fault codes read: they identify which wheel is involved
- Do not replace parts by trial and error: the diagnosis tells you which sensor
How MasterTuning helps
We read the ECU with professional tools, interpret the real fault codes and tell you what really needs repairing, without unnecessary replacements. Diagnosis, repair and software recalibration at our centres throughout Italy.
Is a warning light on? Contact us for a diagnosis or find your nearest MasterTuning centre.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive with the ABS light on?
Yes, the conventional braking system works, but without anti-lock: drive carefully, increase your safety distance and have the car checked as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to repair the ABS?
In most cases it is a wheel speed sensor, which is inexpensive. Only rarely does the ABS control unit itself need work.
Why do the ABS and ESP lights come on together?
Because the stability control uses the same sensors as the ABS: if a wheel sensor is missing, both systems switch off.
ABS warning light on: what it means and can you drive?: what are the most common causes?
The most frequent causes are: wheel speed sensor dirty, corroded or faulty (the number one cause); damaged or encrusted reluctor ring; broken wiring near the wheel arch; aBS fuse or relay; flat battery or low voltage during starting; aBS control unit with faulty internal tracks.
