Why Is My ABS Light On?
If your dashboard light for your ABS is on, it can mean several things:
- Start-up: A routine system check occurs whenever you start your vehicle; at this time the ABS light comes on briefly, but it should go off quickly. If it doesn’t go off, it may mean ABS problems.
- ABS Computer Module: The light illuminated could mean a malfunction.
- ABS Sensor: If this is damaged or corroded, it can give false information and cause the light to come on.
- Bad Wheel Bearing: If the wheel bearings are bad, this can also cause the light to trigger.
- Dirty Tone Ring: May trigger the light alert.
- Outside Problem: A problem derived outside the system that can affect the ABS Sensors or the computer module, such as a low car battery or other electrical problems.
What to Do If the Light Comes On
If the light comes on at startup and then goes off, that is the self-check function, but if it comes on and stays on it can mean real problems, like:
- ABS self-check picks up a problem (if this is the case your brakes will work but ABS won’t).
- If you’re driving and the light comes on, it may only be temporary, but if it stays on at the next start-up, schedule an appointment with Premier Ford of Lamesa.
- ABS and Brake Light Come on: If this happens it can mean your ABS and brakes aren’t functioning properly, and your vehicle is unsafe. Carefully get off the road and call for a tow.
Your ABS isn’t a critical system, and you can still drive normally. However, you need to be careful when braking, as the antilock system will not engage and you could go into a spin and lose control. If the light is on, get your ABS checked out.
If your ABS light and your brake light are on at the same time, it may mean your brakes are not functioning. If this is the case, call for a tow. Bring your vehicle into Premier Ford of Lamesa for ABS service so you can return to the road safely.
