Wheel Speed Sensor Repair Costs
Front Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement
Labor time: 0.5-1 hour
Labor cost: $62.50-$125
Parts cost: $40-$120
Total estimated cost: $102.50-$245
Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement
Labor time: 0.5-1 hour
Labor cost: $62.50-$125
Parts cost: $40-$120
Total estimated cost: $102.50-$245
Important Notes:
- Costs may vary depending on vehicle make and model
- Some luxury vehicles may have higher parts costs
- Additional repairs may be needed if wiring or connectors are damaged
- Diagnostic time may be required to confirm sensor failure ($125/hour)
Common Signs of Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors:
- ABS warning light illuminated
- Traction control system malfunction
- Speedometer issues
- Anti-lock brake system not functioning properly
All repairs come with our standard warranty and are performed by certified technicians using quality parts.
Replacement Procedures
When replacing or repairing a wheel speed sensor, several steps and components are typically involved to ensure your vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control systems function correctly. Here's what is included in our process:1. Diagnosis:Our technicians perform a thorough diagnostic to confirm the wheel speed sensor is faulty. This involves using our professional diagnostic scanner to read error codes from your vehicle's onboard computer.
2. Sensor Removal:The faulty wheel speed sensor is carefully removed. This may require lifting the vehicle and removing the wheel to access the sensor, which is usually located near the brake rotor.
3. Inspection:The area around the sensor is inspected for any damage or debris that might have contributed to the sensor's failure. This includes checking the wiring harness and connectors for corrosion or wear.
4. Replacement:A new wheel speed sensor is installed. We use only quality sensors that are compatible with your vehicle's make and model to ensure proper functionality.
5. Wiring and Connectors:The wiring and connectors are checked and, if necessary, repaired or replaced to ensure a good electrical connection. This step is vital to prevent future issues.
6. Reassembly:The wheel and any other components are reassembled. All bolts and fasteners are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
7. Testing:After installation, we thoroughly test your vehicle to ensure the new sensor is functioning correctly. This includes checking the ABS and traction control systems for proper operation.
8. Clearing Error Codes:Any error codes stored in your vehicle's computer related to the wheel speed sensor are cleared using our professional diagnostic tools.
9. Road Test:We perform a road test to verify that the ABS and traction control systems are working as expected and that no warning lights are illuminated on your dashboard.
10. Documentation:The repair is documented, including the parts used and any observations made during the process. This documentation is provided to you for your records and warranty purposes.
Our comprehensive process ensures your wheel speed sensor is replaced or repaired correctly, maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle's braking system.
What is a Wheel Speed Sensor and what does it do
A wheel speed sensor is a component of a vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) systems. Its primary function is to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and provide this information to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU). Here's a more detailed explanation of its role and functionality:
1. Location and Types:Wheel speed sensors are typically located near the wheel hubs or within the wheel bearing assembly. There are generally two types of wheel speed sensors: active and passive. Active sensors use a power source to generate a signal, while passive sensors generate a signal based on the magnetic field created by the wheel's rotation.
2. Functionality:The sensor detects the speed of the wheel by measuring the frequency of the magnetic field changes as the wheel rotates. This data is then sent to the ECU, which uses it to determine if any of the wheels are locking up or losing traction.
3. ABS and ESC Systems:In ABS, the wheel speed sensor helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking by allowing the ECU to modulate brake pressure. In ESC systems, the sensor data helps the ECU to maintain vehicle stability by applying brakes to individual wheels or reducing engine power if it detects a loss of traction or control.
4. Safety and Performance:By providing real-time data on wheel speed, these sensors play a crucial role in enhancing vehicle safety and performance. They help maintain control during emergency braking and improve handling in adverse conditions.
5. Symptoms of Failure:If a wheel speed sensor fails, it can trigger warning lights on the dashboard, such as the ABS or traction control light. It may also lead to reduced braking performance or loss of stability control features.Overall, the wheel speed sensor is an essential component for modern vehicle safety systems, ensuring optimal braking performance and vehicle stability.
How do I know I need to replace my Wheel Speed Sensor
Wheel Speed Sensor: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Wheel Speed Sensor Failure
1. ABS Warning Light Illumination
The most immediate and obvious sign of a wheel speed sensor problem is when your Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light comes on in your dashboard.
2. Traction Control System Deactivation
Since wheel speed sensors also provide data to the traction control system, you may notice the traction control light illuminated or the system not functioning properly.
3. Speedometer Issues
In some vehicles, erratic or non-functioning speedometer readings can indicate a faulty wheel speed sensor.
4. Unusual ABS Behavior
The ABS may engage unnecessarily at low speeds or fail to engage when needed, creating potentially dangerous braking situations.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection:
Wheel speed sensors typically don't have a specific replacement interval, but should be inspected during routine brake service (approximately every 30,000 miles).
Preventative Maintenance:
- Visual inspection every 12 months
- Clean sensors during brake service to remove metal debris
- Check wiring connections during regular vehicle maintenance
Replacement Considerations:
Wheel speed sensors usually last 100,000+ miles but can fail earlier due to:
- Environmental damage
- Physical damage
- Electrical issues
- Excessive contamination
Note: It's recommended to have your vehicle's computer system scanned for trouble codes if you suspect wheel speed sensor issues, as symptoms can be similar to other problems.
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.
