How to change a wheel speed sensor [AUTODOC TUTORIAL]

How to change ABS sensor on a car – replacement tutorial

Things you may need:

                      a new ABS sensor
                    
                      a set of suitable tools
                    
                      universal spray cleaner and a wire brush
                    
                      WD-40 spray
                    
                      electronic spray
                    
                      long reach pliers or adjustable pliers
                    
                      torque wrench

Buy tools

Please note!

The wheel speed sensors are a part of the vehicle's anti-lock braking system, ABS
The system helps to correctly distribute the braking force to each of the wheels depending on the road conditions
The ABS can include other systems such as the anti-slip regulation system and the stability control system

1.

ABS sensors are usually installed near the wheel rotation axes
2.

They read the rotation speed of each wheel and send this data to the ECU
3.

If any one of the sensors is faulty, the system switches to the emergency mode
4.

The ABS sensor reads information from a magnetic or toothed ring

Depending on the car design it can be located:
on the CV joint housingor in the wheel bearingor on the brake disc
5.

You can determine which ABS sensor is faulty by scanning the car's computer
6.

In most cases, you should remove the wheel to access the sensor
7.

To do this, first raise the vehicle
8.

Use a car lift or a jack

Important!
When using a jack you also need to use jack stands
9.

In some cars you can replace an ABS sensor without removing the wheel. In this case, you just need an inspection pit or ramp
10.

Clean the area you’re working on and the connectors

Please note!
Depending on its design, the sensor:may have a connectoror be a one-piece element with a section of wire that is attached to the car body
11.

Remove the ABS sensor connector
12.

Inspect the terminals for damage and corrosion
13.

The sensor’s metal housing might be severely corroded
14.

Be sure to clean it thoroughly to make it easier to remove

Important!
In some cases, additional tools may be needed to replace the sensor
15.

Unscrew the ABS sensor fastener
16.

To remove the sensor, rock it from side to side in its seat

Be careful!
Do not apply excessive force to avoid damaging the sensor body
17.

Remove the sensor from its mounting seat
18.

Remove the sensor wiring harness if necessary
19.

In some cases, corrosion can make removing the sensor difficult

AUTODOC experts recommend:
To avoid this in the future, apply some grease to the sensor's mounting surface
20.

Clean the sensor's mounting seat
21.

Then lubricate the mounting surface on the new sensor
22.

Install the new sensor
23.

Screw in the ABS sensor fastener
24.

Tighten the fasteners with a torque wrench to the manufacturer's recommended torque
25.

Treat the connectors with the electrical contact cleaner spray
26.

Attach the connector and secure the sensor wiring harness
27.

Clean the brake disc surface where it will contact the wheel rim and treat it with an anti-corrosion agent
28.

Removing sensors secured with a clip is a straightforward process. However, this fastening method is not always reliable

Comments – 3

@user_2303886

05.03.2024 17:02

Member

No, that does not in any way look like how you do it on a Volvo XC90. There is something you have to get to above the fuel tank. From what I can see other places it looks like I have to pull out the rear seats. I was hoping this guide would show what I am up against.
- @Jessica_L
  
  06.03.2024 08:09
  
  @user_
  
  Moderator
  
  This is a general guide. Yes the replacement procedure may be different on your car, you can find more precise information in the repair manual of your car directly.
s.c.

07.01.2025 23:50

Member

Then don’t put it as Volvo rear abs sensor guide?