If you own a modern car, it's likely equipped with an
anti-lock braking system (ABS) that uses a complex network of sensors to detect
and prevent skidding. The ABS wheel speed sensor is a crucial part of this
system that monitors the rotation speed of each wheel and sends this
information to the ABS control module. Unfortunately, like any other car
component, the ABS wheel speed sensor can fail or malfunction, leading to
potential safety issues and expensive repairs.
In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and
solutions of a faulty ABS wheel speed sensor. Additionally, we will introduce
you to the "Check MOT History"
feature, a useful online tool that can help you check the MOT history of any UK
registered vehicle.
Causes
of a Faulty ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
The ABS wheel speed sensor is a small electronic component
that is exposed to harsh conditions such as temperature fluctuations, moisture,
and vibrations. Over time, these conditions can cause wear and tear on the
sensor, leading to various problems, including:
1.
Damage to
the sensor wiring: The sensor wiring can be damaged due to road debris,
corrosion, or exposure to heat, causing the sensor to fail.
2.
Sensor
contamination: The sensor can become contaminated by dirt, debris, or brake
dust, affecting its performance.
3.
Sensor
misalignment: The sensor can become misaligned due to an accident or
improper installation, causing it to read the wrong wheel speed.
Symptoms
of a Faulty ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
If your car's ABS system is not functioning correctly, you
may experience the following symptoms:
1.
ABS warning
light: The most common symptom of a faulty ABS wheel speed sensor
is the ABS warning light turning on in the dashboard. This light indicates that
there is a problem with the ABS system and requires immediate attention.
2.
Loss of
traction control: If the ABS wheel speed sensor is not working
correctly, the car's traction control system may also be affected. This can
cause the wheels to slip or lock up, making it difficult to control the car.
3.
Uneven
braking: A faulty ABS wheel speed sensor can cause the car to brake
unevenly, with one wheel locking up before the others. This can cause the car
to swerve or skid, making it unsafe to drive.
Solutions
for a Faulty ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
If you suspect that your ABS wheel speed sensor is faulty,
you should take your car to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Depending on the severity of the problem, the mechanic may recommend one of the
following solutions:
1.
Sensor
replacement: In some cases, the sensor may need to be replaced entirely.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, depending on the location
of the sensor and the make and model of the car.
2.
Wiring
repair: If the sensor wiring is damaged, the mechanic may be able to
repair or replace the wiring, which can be a more cost-effective solution.
3.
Sensor
cleaning: If the sensor is contaminated, the mechanic may be able to
clean it, restoring its functionality.
Check
MOT History
If you're buying a used car, it's essential to check its MOT history before making a purchase.
The MOT history check
report will give you detailed information about the car's MOT test results,
including the date of the last test, the test center’s name, and the test's
outcome.
The Check MOT status feature
is an online tool that allows you to access this information quickly and
easily. To use this tool, you will need the car's registration number and make.
Once you have entered this information, the tool will
generate a report that includes the following information:
1. MOT test
date and mileage: The report will show the date of the car's last MOT test and
the mileage at the time of the test.
2. MOT test result
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