Why Is My Speedometer Not Work And ABS Light On? – Solutions

If you’re experiencing issues with your car’s speedometer not working and the ABS light turning on, it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. It can make it difficult to accurately gauge your speed and know when your car’s anti-lock braking system is functioning properly. 

In this article, we’ll explore the causes of this issue, as well as possible solutions to get your car back on the road safely and efficiently. The article provides a comprehensive guide to diagnosing and fixing the problem, including common causes such as faulty or blown fuses, malfunctioning wheel speed sensors, and bad ABS control modules. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any dashboard warning lights are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.

What are the common causes of the ABS light turning on?

The ABS light in a car can come on due to various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of the ABS light turning on:

1. Low brake fluid levels

The brake fluid has a lot to do with controlling the braking pressure within an anti-lock braking system. There is a brake fluid reservoir which holds the fluid of the anti-lock braking system. Sometimes there could be a leak from this reservoir which will cause the fluid levels to drop. Either that or excessive amounts of air may exist within the system. Either way, it may certainly cause the ABS warning light to illuminate on the dashboard .

2. Faulty speed sensor

There are speed sensors built into every wheel’s hub which calculate the movement rate of that wheel. This information then gets transmitted to the anti-lock braking system. If it turns out that at least one of the wheels is moving too slowly, the anti-lock braking system will increase the pressure of the brake fluid to allow the wheel to move at a normal speed. But if there is a problem with the speed sensor, the anti-lock braking system will detect that and cause the warning light to illuminate on the dashboard .

3. Bad ABS module

The ABS module is responsible for controlling the anti-lock braking system. If it fails, the ABS light will turn on. The ABS module can fail due to various reasons, including electrical issues, corrosion, and wear and tear .

4. Bulb check

When you start your car, the ABS light should come on briefly and then turn off. If it doesn’t, it could indicate a problem with the bulb or the wiring.

5. Worn hydraulic pump

The hydraulic pump is responsible for maintaining the pressure in the anti-lock braking system. If it wears out, the ABS light may turn on.

6. Damaged wheel speed sensor

The wheel speed sensor is responsible for measuring the speed of each wheel. If it gets damaged, the ABS light may turn on.

7. Worn brake pads

Worn brake pads can cause the ABS light to turn on. This is because the brake pads are responsible for creating the friction that slows down the car. If they are worn out, the braking system may not work properly.

8. Blown fuse

The ABS system has a dedicated fuse. If it blows, the ABS light may turn on.

9. Damage to a tone wheel on an axle

The tone wheel is responsible for providing the wheel speed sensor with the information it needs to calculate the speed of the wheel. If it gets damaged, the ABS light may turn on.

10. Loose or worn wheel bearings or hubs

The wheel bearings and hubs are responsible for keeping the wheels in place. If they are loose or worn, the ABS light may turn on.

11. Faulty brake booster

The brake booster is responsible for amplifying the force applied to the brake pedal. If it fails, the ABS light may turn on.

12. Faulty brake master cylinder

The brake master cylinder is responsible for converting the force applied to the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure. If it fails, the ABS light may turn on.

13. Faulty brake pressure sensor

The brake pressure sensor is responsible for monitoring the pressure in the brake system. If it fails, the ABS light may turn on.

14. Faulty brake pedal switch

The brake pedal switch is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is pressed. If it fails, the ABS light may turn on.

15. Faulty traction control system

The traction control system is responsible for preventing the wheels from spinning when accelerating. If it fails, the ABS light may turn on.

What is the most common problem with ABS systems?

The most common issue with ABS systems is a faulty ABS sensor. The ABS sensor is responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS module. If the sensor is damaged or malfunctioning, the ABS light will illuminate on the dashboard and the system will not function properly. 

Other symptoms of a bad ABS sensor include a pulsating brake pedal, loss of anti-lock brakes, or loss of traction control. Dirt and debris buildup on the sensor can cause it to become less sensitive over time, and eventually stop working altogether.

Corrosion is another common reason for ABS sensor failure. Remember, a faulty ABS sensor can cause a variety of issues, so it’s important to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.

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Speedometer Not Working And ABS Light On – What are the causes and how to fix it?

When your speedometer is not working and the ABS light is on, it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. It can make it difficult to accurately gauge your speed and know when your car’s anti-lock braking system is functioning properly. In this article, we will explore the causes of this issue, as well as possible solutions to get your car back on the road safely and efficiently.

The most common causes of the ABS light turning on are a faulty ABS sensor, low brake fluid levels, and a bad ABS module. The ABS sensor is responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS module. 

If the sensor is damaged or malfunctioning, the ABS light will illuminate on the dashboard and the system will not function properly. 

Other symptoms of a bad ABS sensor include a pulsating brake pedal, loss of anti-lock brakes, or loss of traction control. Low brake fluid levels can cause the ABS warning light to illuminate on the dashboard, as the brake fluid has a lot to do with controlling the braking pressure within an anti-lock braking system. 

There is a brake fluid reservoir which holds the fluid of the anti-lock braking system. Sometimes there could be a leak from this reservoir which will cause the fluid levels to drop. Either that or excessive amounts of air may exist within the system. 

The ABS module is responsible for controlling the anti-lock braking system. If it fails, the ABS light will turn on. The ABS module can fail due to various reasons, including electrical issues, corrosion, and wear and tear.

Other possible causes of the issue include a faulty speed sensor, worn hydraulic pump, damaged wheel speed sensor, worn brake pads, blown fuse, damage to a tone wheel on an axle, loose or worn wheel bearings or hubs, faulty brake booster, faulty brake master cylinder, faulty brake pressure sensor, faulty brake pedal switch, and faulty traction control system.

How to diagnose ABS Light issue

Diagnosing an ABS light issue can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done. Here is a comprehensive guide to diagnosing the problem:

Step 1: Check the ABS fuse 

The first step in diagnosing an ABS light issue is to check the ABS fuse. The ABS fuse is usually located in the fuse box under the hood or under the dashboard. Check your owner’s manual to locate the fuse box and the ABS fuse. If the ABS fuse is blown, replace it with a new one.

Step 2: Inspect the wheel speed sensors 

The wheel speed sensors are responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS module. If the wheel speed sensors are dirty or damaged, they can cause the ABS light to turn on. To inspect the wheel speed sensors, you will need to remove the wheels and brake calipers. Once you have access to the sensors, inspect them for any damage or dirt. Clean the sensors if they are dirty, and replace them if they are damaged.

Step 3: Test the ABS control module 

If the ABS fuse and wheel speed sensors are functioning properly, the next step is to test the ABS control module. The ABS control module is responsible for interpreting the signals from the wheel speed sensors and controlling the ABS system. 

To test the ABS control module, you will need an OBD-II scanner. Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port under the dashboard and turn on the ignition. The scanner will read the error codes stored in the ABS control module.

If the scanner displays an error code, refer to the service manual for your vehicle to determine the cause of the error code. If the ABS control module is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

How to fix speedometer not working and the ABS light turning on

If you’re experiencing issues with your car’s speedometer not working and the ABS light turning on, there are several possible solutions to get your car back on the road safely and efficiently. Here are some of the most common solutions:

Replace the faulty or blown fuses

• If the ABS fuse is blown, replace it with a new one. 
• The ABS fuse is usually located in the fuse box under the hood or under the dashboard. Check your owner’s manual to locate the fuse box and the ABS fuse.

Repair or replace the malfunctioning wheel speed sensors

• The wheel speed sensors are responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS module. 
• If the wheel speed sensors are dirty or damaged, they can cause the ABS light to turn on. 
• To repair or replace the wheel speed sensors, you will need to remove the wheels and brake calipers.
• Once you have access to the sensors, inspect them for any damage or dirt. 
• Clean the sensors if they are dirty, and replace them if they are damaged.

Fix or replace the bad ABS control modules

• The ABS control module is responsible for interpreting the signals from the wheel speed sensors and controlling the ABS system. 
• If the ABS control module is faulty, it will need to be fixed or replaced. 
• To test the ABS control module, you will need an OBD-II scanner. 
• Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port under the dashboard and turn on the ignition. 
• The scanner will read the error codes stored in the ABS control module. If the scanner displays an error code, refer to the service manual for your vehicle to determine the cause of the error code.

If you’re not comfortable performing these steps yourself, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue. The majority of auto parts shops will read the codes for you at no cost. I would advise hiring a mobile, qualified mechanic to perform a Check Engine Light is On Inspection. Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to any dashboard warning lights are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.

Can ABS stop your car from driving?

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is designed to help prevent the wheels from locking up when braking, which can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control. The system accomplishes this by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes, allowing the wheels to continue spinning. The goal of ABS is to keep the wheels in contact with the road surface rather than to stop the car from driving.

However, if the ABS system fails, the brakes may be applied and released unexpectedly, making it more difficult to control the vehicle and potentially leading to an accident. If the ABS light is illuminated, it indicates that the system is malfunctioning and that the vehicle’s braking performance may be compromised, making driving dangerous.

It is important to note that while ABS can help prevent the wheels from locking up, it does not necessarily reduce the total stopping distance of your vehicle. In fact, the system can increase overall stopping distances as it continually releases the brake for tiny intervals.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to any dashboard warning lights are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between ABS and non-ABS brakes?

The main difference between ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) and non-ABS brakes is that ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up when braking, which can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control. 

The system accomplishes this by rapidly applying and releasing the brakes, allowing the wheels to continue spinning. The goal of ABS is to keep the wheels in contact with the road surface rather than to stop the car from driving.

On the other hand, non-ABS brakes work by applying pressure to the brake pads, which in turn squeeze a metal disc or a metal drum to bring the wheels to a stop. If you have driven a vehicle with non-ABS brakes, you know that these brakes are susceptible to locking up on wet or snowy roads and causing the automobile to skid into an uncontrollable slide.

ABS brakes are considered to be a better braking system than traditional non-ABS brakes. Although some traditionalists argue that older brakes are better, there are many measurement studies that show ABS brake systems stop a vehicle quicker, without loss of control, in almost all circumstances.

How do I know if my car has an anti-lock braking system?

• You can check if your car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) by looking for the ABS warning light on the dashboard. 
• If the light is illuminated, it indicates that there is a problem with the ABS. 
• If the light is not illuminated, it does not necessarily mean that your car does not have ABS, as the light may simply be burned out.
• Another way to check if your car has ABS is to look for wheel speed sensor wires that are coming from the rear of your brakes. 
• The wheel speed sensors are responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS module. 
• If your car has ABS, you should be able to see these wires coming from the rear of your brakes.
• If you’re still unsure whether your car has ABS, you can check your owner’s manual or contact your car manufacturer’s customer service department for more information.

Also Read: Heated Steering Wheel Not Working: A Troubleshooting Guide

What are the costs included?

Here are the costs associated with resetting a speedometer and an ABS system:

• Resetting a speedometer

The cost of resetting a speedometer varies depending on the vehicle and the cause of the problem. In some cases, the problem may be a simple calibration issue that a mechanic can resolve for a low cost. 

However, if the problem is caused by a faulty speed sensor or instrument cluster, the cost of a replacement part and labor to install it will be added to the total cost. In general, the cost can range between $50 and $200. 

It is important to note that the cost can be higher in some cases if the issue is caused by a more complex problem.

• Resetting an ABS system 

The cost of resetting an ABS system varies depending on the vehicle and the cause of the problem. In some cases, the problem may be a simple calibration issue that a mechanic can resolve for a low cost. 

However, if the problem is caused by a faulty ABS sensor, a malfunctioning ABS module, or another mechanical issue, the cost of a replacement part and labor to install it will be added to the total cost. 

The average cost of replacing an ABS wheel speed sensor is between $200 and $400 per sensor, depending on the car model and labor costs. You can expect to pay about $100 to $150 for the wheel speed sensor and another $100 to $300 for the labor. 

The cost of replacing an ABS control module is between $200 and $1500, depending on the car model and labor costs. The ABS control module should cost between $150 and $900 for parts, and the rest is the cost of labor.

FAQs: Why Is My Speedometer Not Work And ABS Light On?

Does a faulty ABS sensor affect speedometer? 

Yes, a faulty ABS sensor can cause the speedometer to stop working or display erratic readings.

Does the ABS control the speedometer? 

The ABS control module uses data from the wheel speed sensors to manage the valve system in the ABS modulator to restore hydraulic pressure. However, the ABS control module does not directly control the speedometer.

Which ABS sensor controls the speedometer? 

The wheel speed sensors are responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS control module. The ABS control module uses this data to manage the valve system in the ABS modulator to restore hydraulic pressure. However, the wheel speed sensors do not directly control the speedometer.

Why is my ABS light on and lack of power? 

A malfunctioning ABS sensor, a faulty ABS module, or another mechanical issue can cause the ABS light to turn on and the vehicle’s power to decrease.

Does the ABS module affect the speedometer? 

There are rare cases where an ABS control module failure affects the speedometer. It’ll either show you the wrong speed, or the needle will rest at 0 mph. Next, the brake light or Check Engine Light will likely switch on.

What are the symptoms of a faulty speed sensor? 

Symptoms of a faulty speed sensor include erratic speedometer readings, cruise control problems, slow acceleration, slow idle, and braking difficulties.

What sensor causes the speedometer not to work? 

A malfunctioning speed sensor can cause the speedometer to stop working or display erratic readings.

Is it OK to drive with ABS sensor on? 

It is not recommended to drive with the ABS light on, as it indicates that there is a problem with the ABS system. The ABS system is an important safety feature that helps prevent the wheels from locking up when braking, which can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control.

What happens if you don’t fix ABS sensor? 

If you don’t fix a faulty ABS sensor, it can cause the ABS system to malfunction, which can lead to a loss of traction control, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. This can make driving dangerous and increase the risk of an accident.

What is the difference between speed sensor and ABS sensor? 

A speed sensor is responsible for measuring the speed of a vehicle, while an ABS sensor is responsible for monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel and sending a signal to the ABS control module.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing issues with your car’s speedometer not working and the ABS light turning on, it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. The most common causes of the issue are a faulty ABS sensor, low brake fluid levels, and a bad ABS module. 

To diagnose the problem, you can check the fuses, inspect the wheel speed sensors, and test the ABS control module. Once you have identified the cause of the issue, you can replace the faulty or blown fuses, repair or replace the malfunctioning wheel speed sensors, and fix or replace the bad ABS control modules. 

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to any dashboard warning lights are essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.