Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Parts Cost: - The cost of a new ABS wheel speed sensor typically ranges from $50 to $200. The price can vary depending on the brand and the specific vehicle model. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts tend to be more expensive than aftermarket options.
2. Labor Cost: - Labor costs for replacing an ABS wheel speed sensor can range from $50 to $150 per hour. The total labor time can vary, but it usually takes about 1 to 2 hours to replace a sensor, depending on the vehicle and the sensor's location.
3. Total Replacement Cost: - Combining parts and labor, the total cost to replace an ABS wheel speed sensor generally falls between $100 and $400. Luxury or high-performance vehicles may incur higher costs.
4. Repair vs. Replacement: - In some cases, the sensor might just need cleaning or a minor repair, which could be less expensive than a full replacement. However, if the sensor is faulty, replacement is usually recommended.
5. Additional Costs: - If the sensor failure has caused other issues, such as damage to the ABS system or related components, additional repairs may be necessary, increasing the overall cost.It's always a good idea to get a few quotes from different repair shops to ensure you're getting a fair price. Additionally, if you're comfortable with DIY car repairs and have the necessary tools, you might be able to replace the sensor yourself, which could save on labor costs. However, proper diagnosis is crucial to ensure that the sensor is indeed the issue.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Diagnosis: Before any replacement or repair, a thorough diagnosis is performed to confirm that the wheel speed sensor is the issue. This often involves using a diagnostic scanner to read error codes from the vehicle's onboard computer.
2. Preparation The vehicle is safely lifted and supported to access the wheel and sensor. The wheel and sometimes the brake components may need to be removed to gain access to the sensor.
3. Removal of the Old Sensor The electrical connector to the sensor is disconnected. The sensor is unbolted or unclipped from its mounting point on the wheel hub or suspension component. Care is taken to avoid damaging the sensor wiring or other nearby components.
4. Inspection The sensor and its wiring are inspected for physical damage or corrosion. The tone ring (or reluctor ring), which works with the sensor to measure wheel speed, is also inspected for damage or debris.
5. Installation of the New Sensor The new sensor is installed in the reverse order of removal. It is secured in place and the electrical connector is reattached. Any removed components, such as the wheel or brake parts, are reinstalled.
6. Testing Once installed, the system is tested to ensure the new sensor is functioning correctly. This may involve a road test and another scan with the diagnostic tool to ensure no error codes are present.
7. Calibration (if necessary) Some vehicles may require calibration of the ABS system after sensor replacement, which is done using specialized equipment.
8. Final Checks A final inspection is performed to ensure everything is properly reassembled and there are no leaks or loose components.
9. Documentation The repair is documented, including any parts replaced and the results of the diagnostic tests.It’s important to note that the exact process can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the specific design of the ABS system. Additionally, if the issue was due to wiring or connector problems, those components might also need repair or replacement.
What is an ABS/Wheel Speed Sensor and What Does It Do?
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) wheel speed sensor is a component in modern vehicles equipped with ABS. Its primary function is to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and provide this information to the ABS control module. Here's a more detailed explanation of its role and functionality:
1. Location and Structure: - The wheel speed sensors are typically located at each wheel, near the brake rotor or hub assembly. They can be either active or passive sensors, with active sensors being more common in modern vehicles due to their accuracy and reliability.
2. Functionality: - Speed Monitoring: The sensor detects the speed of the wheel by measuring the rotation of a toothed ring (often called a tone ring or reluctor ring) attached to the wheel or axle. As the wheel turns, the teeth of the ring pass by the sensor, generating an electrical signal. - Signal Transmission: This signal is sent to the ABS control module, which uses the data to determine if any wheel is rotating significantly slower than the others, indicating potential wheel lock-up during braking.
3. Role in ABS: - Preventing Wheel Lock-up: If the ABS control module detects a wheel that is about to lock up, it modulates the brake pressure to that wheel, preventing skidding and helping maintain steering control. - Enhancing Safety: By preventing wheel lock-up, the ABS system helps maintain traction and control, especially in slippery conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.
4. Additional Uses: - Traction Control and Stability Systems: The data from wheel speed sensors is also used by traction control and electronic stability control systems to enhance vehicle stability and handling. - Speedometer Functionality: In some vehicles, wheel speed sensors also provide data for the speedometer.
5. Common Issues: - Sensor Damage or Failure: Physical damage, dirt, or corrosion can affect the sensor's ability to accurately read wheel speed, leading to ABS warning lights on the dashboard. - Wiring Problems: Faulty wiring or connections can also disrupt the signal from the sensor to the ABS control module.Overall, the ABS wheel speed sensor is a vital component for vehicle safety systems, ensuring effective braking performance and vehicle stability.
Signs of a bad ABS/Wheel Speed Sensor
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and wheel speed sensors are critical components in modern vehicles, ensuring safe and effective braking. When these components begin to fail, they can exhibit several signs, which may include:
1. ABS Warning Light: One of the most common signs of a failing ABS or wheel speed sensor is the illumination of the ABS warning light on the dashboard. This light indicates that there is an issue with the ABS system, which could be due to a faulty sensor.
2. Increased Stopping Distance: A malfunctioning ABS sensor can lead to increased stopping distances, as the ABS system may not function properly, especially on slippery surfaces.
3. Pulsating Brake Pedal: If the ABS sensor is failing, you might feel a pulsating sensation in the brake pedal during normal braking, even when the ABS is not activated.
4. Unresponsive Brake Pedal: In some cases, a faulty sensor can cause the brake pedal to become unresponsive or require more effort to engage, as the ABS system may not be able to modulate brake pressure effectively.
5. Erratic Speedometer Readings: Since wheel speed sensors provide data to the vehicle’s speedometer, a failing sensor might cause erratic or inaccurate speedometer readings.
6. Traction Control Issues: The wheel speed sensors are also used by the traction control system. A failing sensor can cause the traction control system to malfunction, leading to loss of traction or stability control.
7. Grinding or Strange Noises: Unusual noises during braking, such as grinding or clicking, can indicate a problem with the ABS system or the sensors.
8. ABS Activation Under Normal Conditions: If the ABS activates during normal braking conditions (e.g., dry pavement), it could be a sign that a wheel speed sensor is sending incorrect data to the ABS control module.
9. Loss of Anti-lock Braking Functionality: In some cases, the ABS system may completely fail to engage, leading to a loss of the anti-lock braking feature, which can be dangerous in emergency braking situations.If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. They can diagnose the issue using specialized diagnostic tools and recommend the appropriate repairs to ensure your vehicle's braking system is functioning safely and effectively.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
