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Warning lights

ABS warning light

The anti-lock braking system has a fault and is switched off. Normal braking still works.

Urgency:Service soon

Is it safe to keep driving?

Yes, with care. You still have brakes, but the wheels can lock in a hard stop or on a wet road. Leave more distance and avoid hard braking until it is fixed.

Likely causes

  • Failed wheel speed sensor (the most common cause)
  • Damaged sensor wiring or tone ring
  • ABS module or pump fault
  • Low brake fluid

Typical repair cost (US)

$100 – $1,500

A wheel speed sensor at the low end; an ABS control module at the high end.

A typical range, not a quote. Actual cost depends on the car, the shop and the fault.

What to do now

  1. If the ABS and the red brake light are on together, treat it as a brake system warning and stop.
  2. Have the ABS code read — it points to the wheel with the failed sensor.