Seeing a warning light on your car's control panel can be stressful, and these lights should never be ignored. The issue could be minor, or it could be a much larger system. When it comes to your ABS light, you want to fix the problem immediately. What does it mean when it comes on?
What is ABS?
When you hear a mechanic refer to ABS, they are referring to your car's anti-lock braking system. When there is an issue with your ABS, a light appears that looks like the letters AB inside a circle. There are a few reasons why this light comes on.
What Causes an ABS Light to Come On
The ABS sensors monitor how the brakes are functioning based on wheel rotation speeds. When there is an abnormal reading, the light appears indicating the brakes are not working effectively. Other reasons the light appears include:
- Low Brake Fluid Levels: Low levels of brake fluid affect the way your brake system works, making them less effective.
- Blown Fuse: A blown fuse can cause your ABS light to come on, meaning the issue is in the electrical monitoring system and not the brake system itself.
When the light comes on, it will sometimes flash a few times before staying on, with the number of flashes acting as a code to what is going on.
What to do When the Light Comes On
When you notice your ABS light flashing, try to count the number of flashes and refer to your owner's manual to see what the problem is. You can also do the following DIY fixes:
- Check the sensors that monitor wheel speed for damage (and the wires attached to the monitor).
- Remove the fuse and replace it to see if the problem is a blown fuse.
The best option is to schedule an inspection of your ABS system with a certified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to locate the issue and repair it, making your car safe. If you need ABS repair, give our auto repair shop a call today!