How to Bypass ABS Sensor?
Why do you need to bypass the ABS sensor? It is a cheap way to turn off the dashboard ABS light instead of replacing the sensor. I also wanted to bypass the ABS sensor. So, I did thorough research to find a way to do it. Lastly, this is the thing that I found.
ABS sensors cannot be bypassed by a resistor like others, such as oxygen sensors. A resistor won’t function with ABS sensors because they produce a pulse that the ECU uses to read the wheel speed. So, the ABS light will not be turned off.
In this article, I will explain to you how I replaced my ABS sensor while saving $200.
How Much does it Cost to Replace an ABS Sensor?
Usually, replacing ABS sensors costs nearly $350. Sensor prices range from 100 to 150 dollars depending on the vehicle model, and labor costs are usually 200 dollars.
How I Broke My ABS Sensor
One day, while driving on a dusty road, I noticed that the ABS light had come on. I knew that this meant there was an issue with the car’s anti-lock braking system and decided to investigate. After I arrived home, I removed the ABS sensors one by one and cleaned the derbies and dust on them. I do so because I thought debris was the reason for the malfunction of ABS.
As I inspected the sensor of the right rear wheel, I noticed that it was covered in a thick layer of debris. I carefully tried to remove the debris, but as I did, I accidentally broke the sensor.
What could I have Done?
Then I researched a way to bypass it. There is no way to bypass it. I had two options.
- Drive with the ABS light on.
- Buy and replace a new sensor.
I decided to replace the sensor.
Replacing the ABS Sensor
From the information I found in the research, I was able to replace the sensor myself. So, it cost only 100 USD. It was for the sensor.
By following these simple steps, you can also do this task by yourself.
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
The first step was to disconnect the negative battery terminal. I used a ten-millimeter socket to loosen the screw nut. Make sure you don’t connect the two by accident, as this could cause sparks to fly and potentially damage the battery. Store the negative battery terminal lead down in a way that it doesn’t accidentally touch while you are working.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel
- First, I applied the handbrake.
- Then, placed wheel chocks on the wheel diagonally opposite to the one that needs replacing to prevent the vehicle from rolling when it’s being jacked.
- Next, I lose the nuts of the wheel by using a wrench.
- After I slowly raised the car by using a jack.
- Once the vehicle is raised, completely removed the wheel nuts and removed the wheel.
Note: Sensor replacement can also be done without removing the wheel. I removed the wheel for better access to the sensor.
Step 3: Locating the Sensor
The sensor was located on the left side of the rear brake assembly. I removed the bolt holding the sensor, which was bolted to the shock assembly.
Step 4: Replace the new Sensor
Then I removed the ten-millimeter bolts that hold the wire to the chassis. Next, I removed the 10-millimeter bolts that were holding the sensor and replaced it with new one.
Keep in mind to attach the sensor extension wire away from the tire and any moving suspension components.
This video will help you replace the ABS sensor.
Resetting the ABS Light
The next and final step was to reset the ABS light.
- I started by removing the positive terminal from the vehicle’s battery.
- Then I hold down the brake pedal for a few seconds, draining the electrical system of the car.
- The result was a reset of the main computer.
- Then I reconnected the battery cable.
- Then I rode my car for 30 seconds to allow the computer system to recalibrate. Done! The ABS light was turned off.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS(FAQs):
What are the signs of a bad ABS sensor?
The ABS light coming on is the primary indication. Whatever the issue, if it only affects one wheel, ABS will only disable on that wheel; all other wheel ABS functions will operate as intended. All automotive ABS units, whether hydraulic or air-operated, receive this characteristic.
Do cheap ABS sensors work?
Yes, they will work. But a cheap part increases the number of potential failure modes for your braking system, increasing the risk of vehicle damage, personal injury, or even worse. You will at the very least be replacing your ABS sensors more frequently than necessary. Therefore, always try to buy original ones.
Can ABS wiring harnesses be repaired?
“Yes, we can!” is the quick answer to this question. But that it is frequently less expensive to create a new wiring harness than it is to repair or overhaul an old one.
Can an ABS sensor cause transmission problems?
Numerous issues may arise as a result of a bad ABS sensor. The car in question must be automatic or semi-automatic, right? The ABS sensor alerts the ECU when a wheel locks up while braking. Additionally, it alerts the ECU if any wheels are spinning when moving forward (traction control).
If the ABS sensor is malfunctioning, the ECU won’t understand what the wheel is doing. As a result, the dash will display a variety of warning lights.
Since the ECU won’t have complete and consistent information about the wheel speeds because it doesn’t know what that wheel is doing, it will probably also generate a gearbox code.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a way to bypass the ABS sensor, unfortunately, it is not possible as the sensor produces a pulse that the ECU uses to read the wheel speed, and a resistor won’t function with ABS sensors.
However, if you have a broken ABS sensor and need to replace it, you can do it yourself by following the simple steps mentioned in this article. Replacing an ABS sensor by yourself can save you a significant amount of money compared to having a mechanic do it for you.
