ABS Light
The problem
The ABS light means the anti-lock braking system detected a fault and disabled itself. Your regular brakes usually still work, but emergency stop behavior on slick or gravel roads may revert to non-ABS — worth understanding before the next storm.
Symptoms
- ABS or traction control warning lamp on
- ABS pump runs constantly or not at all
- Traction control disabled message
- Light appeared after battery disconnect or jump-start
- Intermittent light over bumps
Can I keep driving with the ABS light on?
In most cases, yes — base braking remains, but ABS-assisted panic stops are unavailable.
If the brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or the red brake warning light is also on, treat it as a brake system fault and drive minimally.
On icy Colorado roads, get ABS diagnosed before winter driving if possible.
Common causes
- Wheel speed sensor or tone ring fault (common after bearing work)
- Damaged sensor wiring at the front wheels
- ABS module or pump motor issue
- Low brake fluid triggering related warnings
- Aftermarket tire size mismatch affecting wheel speed signals
What happens next at LugsNPlugs Automotive?
- 1. Tell us if the red brake light is also on and when the ABS light started.
- 2. We scan ABS data, inspect sensors and wiring, and verify normal brake operation.
- 3. Repair follows the failed circuit — not a generic module replacement without proof.
Colorado Springs independent repair — dealer-level diagnostics, not a call center. Browse all common problems