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The ABS warning light illuminates due to a fault in the anti-lock braking system. The most common cause is a faulty wheel speed sensor, usually caused by metal contamination on the sensor tip or physical damage to the sensor or its wiring. The ABS system is disabled when this light is on, but the standard braking system continues to function normally. Use an OBD scanner to read the fault code — it will identify which wheel sensor has failed.
Based on 434 driver confirmations
Code pointed to nearside front. Replaced the sensor, took about 45 minutes. Sensor is held by one bolt, unplug the connector, job done. Cleared the code. Light stayed off. OEM sensors are worth the extra few quid over cheap pattern parts — had a cheap one fail after 6 months on a previous car.
Parts replaced: Front ABS wheel speed sensor
New sensor didn't fix it. Mechanic traced the wiring harness and found it had worn through where it rubs on the suspension arm. Repaired the wire and rerouted it with a cable tie away from the arm. ABS light off. Common on higher mileage cars — the loom gets brittle.
Parts replaced: Wiring repair kit, cable ties
ABS light on, read the code myself with a cheap OBD reader — front left wheel speed sensor fault. Before replacing it I cleaned the sensor and the reluctor ring with brake cleaner. Cleared the code. Light hasn't come back in 3 months. Worth trying before buying a new sensor.
Parts replaced: Brake cleaner spray
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