Your ABS sensor communicates speed information to a computer (known as a
controller). When receiving poor or no signal from wheel sensors, the ABS warning light illuminates.
You may attempt to reset it by toggling your key on and off several times, similar to
rebooting a computer. If that doesn’t work, inspect all sensors and wiring for signs of
corrosion.
Brake Fluid
ABS sensors inform a controller in your car of whenever one of its wheels has
stopped rotating while in motion, prompting it to release brake fluid pressure via
hydraulic pumps or valves in order to get it rotating again – often several times
every second. Should one of these sensors fail or give inaccurate data from speed
sensors, an ABS light may illuminate on your dashboard as an alert.
Seeing both ABS and BRAKE lights illuminate can indicate serious problems, so it is
recommended that your mechanic uses an OBDII scanner to diagnose your vehicle.
An ABS code may be stored which provides further details on what’s amiss;
additionally, this scanner will tell you whether or not your anti-lock system has been
disabled; this safety feature helps prevent your wheels from locking when hitting
obstacles or turning quickly.
ABS Sensor
Your ABS brake warning light illuminates when your computer has detected an issue
with one or more ABS wheel speed sensors, such as broken wires or fluid blockages
that prevent these sensors from transmitting their signal to the computer.
If your ABS warning light remains illuminated, it’s time to investigate further. An
OBD II scanner should help pinpoint the source of your problems; alternatively you
could try draining and reconnecting the battery; this will reset your ABS controller
and may allow any codes to clear. Otherwise, taking apart and replacing your
controller may be required – an expensive service option.
ABS Pump
When both warning lights are illuminated at once, that indicates an issue with
various components of an anti-lock braking system. Most often it involves
malfunctioning wheel speed sensors which measure and report wheel speeds back
to an ABS controller; should one fail, C0050 code will be triggered as soon as this
information reaches it.
If turning off and on again doesn’t solve the issue, it could be time to install a new
ABS module. These complex assemblies combine hydraulics with electronics;
therefore they may require expert service in order to service them effectively. Your
service manual may provide some advice as you look into troubleshooting options.
Before accessing the ABS module, make sure that the negative battery terminal has
been disconnected. After finding and removing the 50 amp fuse for the module, use
a Dremel cutting tool along its seams to cut.
ABS Controller
If both ABS and brake lights remain illuminated, this indicates a serious fault within
your system that requires immediate diagnosis. Modern ABS systems offer several
layers of redundancy; therefore one or more sensors may have failed. A code
scanner may help pinpoint exactly which sensor has failed; otherwise try
disconnecting first the negative cable then positive cable from your battery for
several minutes to reset all modules and see if that resolves things.
Your ABS sensor(s) are responsible for telling your vehicle how fast each wheel is
turning. If they become fouled with dirt or grime, they could misread speeds and
cause confusion within the controller, prompting it to illuminate. An aerosol contact
cleaner should be used on all connectors and pins on your sensors in order to check
for corrosion that might be blocking signals; if that does not solve your issue then
replace them – 1A Auto offers how-to videos specific for your vehicle!