How to replace ABS sensor?
Replacing ABS speed sensor might have different situation depending on the vehicle. For vehicles with external style sensor, replacement is as simple as unplugging the connector from the vehicle harness, and unbolting the sensor from its location. For vehicles with ABS sensor integrated into the wheel hub and bearing assembly, the replacement is more involved since the entire assembly will have to be removed, requiring at least the brakes to be taken out.
Materials you may need:
- Screwdrivers
- Disposable gloves
- Flashlight
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Pry bar
- Brake cleaner
- Multimeter
- Ratchet
- Sand paper
- Spray penetrant
- Sil-Glyde
- Scan Tool
- Socket set
- Wrench set
Step 1 Park the car on level ground, safe surface, and set the parking brake and the engine turned off.
Step 2 Use drive breaker bar and lug nut socket to loosen all the lug nuts before jack the vehicle up in the air.
Step 3 Use jack stands jack the car up to remove a tire. Usually on the sides underneath there are pinch welds you can use to jack from.
Step 4 Use a socket or wrench to remove the sensor mounting bolt, grasp old ABS sensor to remove it from the bearing hub or spindle.
Step 5 Install the new ABS sensor to the old unit to ensure proper installing and operation. Confirm the electrical connector is clean from dirt.
Once the sensor has been replaced the ABS warning light should go out without resetting or clearing the codes in most cases. Some older systems such as Nissan or Volkswagen might require a scan tool to reset the system, but this not typical.
Step 6 Place the tires back onto the hubs using the lug nuts.
Step 7 Place the jack in the correct spot under the vehicle and jack the car up until to remove the jack stands.
Step 8 Test drive the vehicle at speeds above 35 miles per hour. Monitor the data to make sure the sensor sends the right information to the powertrain control module (PCM). Ensure that you are safe while driving and monitoring data.