Let’s Figure it out reason of ABS light on! When an ABS warning light illuminates, it indicates a malfunction within the anti-lock braking system, most often due to a failed wheel speed sensor. Each wheel contains a sensor that measures its speed and transmits this data directly to the ABS control unit. Defective sensors generate error codes that activate the ABS and brake lights as soon as they become compromised.
What is the ABS System?
ABS (Antilock Brake System) is an essential safety feature designed to prevent both front and rear wheels from locking during hard braking, shortening stopping distances on poor roads.
The primary cause of a flashing ABS light is low brake fluid levels. To address this, make sure that the brake fluid meets or surpasses the high mark in the reservoir. If the problem still exists, check all wiring and connectors associated with your ABS sensor as they could become damaged over time, preventing it from sending signals to your computer.
Use a voltmeter to test your ABS sensor. Be sure to disconnect the vehicle battery before connecting the voltmeter to its wire. A voltage reading will indicate whether or not your ABS sensor is functioning as intended; if none appears, it may indicate the sensor needs replacing. 1A Auto has how-to videos specifically tailored for each make and model available online that provide guidance in replacing these sensors.
What is the ABS Light On?
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) uses a complex network of sensors and electronics to manage panic stops or any time you suddenly apply your brakes, such as when making turns or emergency stops. Unfortunately, its many hydraulic components can be costly to repair or replace, prompting many mechanics to avoid working on these systems.
An incorrect velocity signal from a wheel speed sensor may trigger the light and can also prompt the module to report a fault code that pinpoints which sensor is malfunctioning. You can easily check this yourself with either a regular OBD2 scanner capable of reading ABS codes or with one specifically tailored for ABS that you can find on Amazon.
Fused wheel speed sensors may cause the ABS light to illuminate; find its location by consulting your owner’s manual or looking in your vehicle’s fuse panel under the hood.
Why is the ABS Light On?
Your Silverado ABS light should only come on when its system detects an issue. If it continues to illuminate, there may be something amiss with its design that must be rectified immediately. An ABS light may appear for various reasons. Some factors that could trigger its activation are:
The ABS light often illuminates due to a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor. The sensor is a metal ring with teeth attached to your hub or drive axle that reads teeth when your wheels spin and sends that information directly to the control module.
If your wheel speed sensor is malfunctioning, it could either not send any information at all or send incorrect data back to the control module. In these instances, replacing it might be the answer – find quality Chevy Silverado sensors on Amazon!
How Do I Reset the ABS Light?
ABS monitors wheels and brakes using sensors connected to a computer, known as a controller. When one or more wheels stop rotating while driving, the controller attempts to reengage them by decreasing hydraulic pressure at that wheel. This doesn’t work perfectly every time, but it helps avoid your tires locking up or skidding uncontrollably. If the controller malfunctions, it illuminates an ABS light as a warning and records a code for later retrieval.
First, attempt to turn off both the engine and battery for several minutes to drain and reset your electrical system and computer. Alternatively, try bridging two pins on your ABS controller with short pieces of wire or a paperclip to reset its computer. This should cause it to display a diagnostic code, which should help identify the source of the problems.