How to Clean an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

Steve Chryssos 23 April 2024

Your wheel speed sensor relays wheel speed information to the antilock brake system of your car. This speed is also frequently (in certain makes and models) compared to the vehicle speed sensor. When the signals are not the same, a warning light may appear or sometimes a fault code is displayed when diagnosing. In addition—as simple as it sounds—dirty wheel speed sensors can also set off ABS warning lights.

Cleaning Speed Sensors: How to Start

Make sure you have all the needed tools before you begin. You will need a ratchet with extensions available, sockets, a jack and jack stands, and a rag. For cleaning, there are three options: use nothing but your rag, a mild soap-water solution, or an appropriate brake cleaning product. Loosen the lug nuts on your wheel but do not take the tire off. Jack the front of your car up and secure it with jack stands. Before removing wheels, make sure the car is well-supported. Remove the wheel on the side where you will be working first. Turn the steering wheel away from that side of the car.

Cleaning Speed Sensors: Finding the Sensor

This step is made much easier if you have a repair manual on hand, especially if you are not an expert. Locate the ABS wheel sensor (usually not in a differential housing if dealing with disc brakes). Remove all the bolts that keep the ABS wheel sensor intact, including the ones which keep the wiring up. The sensor should be easy to remove from the mounting bracket once bolts are taken out—NEVER tug at the sensor or wiring to remove it. Once the sensors are detached you can wipe it clean with a rag or the cleaning solutions mentioned above. Never use household cleaning agents, as these can damage wheel sensors.

Cleaning Speed Sensors: Reinstall the Sensor

Place the sensor back in place and replace all the bolts. Wiring and lines should also be placed exactly as they were, you don't want these to hang from the car's frame while you're driving. Repeat with the other sides. The car's self-analyzing system may take a while to register the newly cleaned sensors; if dirty wheel sensors were the problem, it may take a few days to register.

Contact UpFix

While faulty wheel speed sensors often cause ABS warning lights to come on, they are not always the cause. Always consult a professional if you are not familiar with cars. Contact UpFix for more information about ABS modules and the services we offer.

How to Clean an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

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How to Clean an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

Cleaning Speed Sensors: How to Start

Cleaning Speed Sensors: Finding the Sensor

Cleaning Speed Sensors: Reinstall the Sensor

Contact UpFix

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