Can I continue driving if the ABS sensor of the Tiguan fails?
4 Answers
ABS warning light is on, it is recommended not to continue driving, because the ABS light on means that the vehicle's anti-lock braking system has failed. In case of emergency braking, if the wheels lock up, the vehicle will lose control and skid, making it impossible for the driver to slow down or adjust the vehicle's trajectory, which poses a significant safety hazard. There are various states of the ABS light being on, and the causes and solutions for different states vary. The details are as follows: State 1: ABS warning light stays on (most common). Cause 1: The sensing part of the ABS speed sensor is covered by dirt, mud, or other contaminants, affecting the sensor's ability to detect the corresponding speed signal. As a result, the ABS computer cannot determine the speed or the wheel's slip rate, and thus cannot issue appropriate commands to adjust braking. Solution: Clean the dirt on the speed sensor and adjust the gap between the speed sensor and the signal ring to restore normal function. Cause 2: Poor signal due to loose connections between system lines or poor contact of the ABS relay, leading to system failure. Solution: Check the line connections and reconnect any loose parts. State 2: ABS warning light intermittently lights up and turns off when accelerating. Cause: When multiple vehicle electrical devices are used, the battery voltage drops below 10.5V. As the engine speed increases, the voltage rises, and the ABS indicator light turns off; the ABS system power supply voltage is too low, such as poor contact at the terminals or grounding. Solution: Check the battery's specific gravity; inspect the charging system; check the power supply (e.g., voltage relay or poor power contact). State 3: ABS warning light stays on after the engine starts and only turns off when the engine is turned off. Cause: Poor contact in the ABS hydraulic valve body's grounding circuit; poor contact in the ABS hydraulic valve body's wiring connector; ABS computer failure. Solution: Loosen the grounding screw of the hydraulic valve body, then tighten it again, cleaning the contact surface if necessary; check if the connector gap has increased; replace the ABS or ABS/ASR computer. State 4: ABS warning light turns on during high-speed driving. Cause: During high-speed driving, the ABS computer detects a significant difference between the rear and front wheel speeds; incorrect tire or wheel rim specifications. Solution: Refer to the vehicle's tire and wheel rim specifications, as indicated on the label near the fuel tank cap. State 5: ABS warning light intermittently lights up. Cause: Improper adjustment of the brake light switch; poor internal contact in the brake light. Solution: Start the engine, press the brake pedal, push the brake switch linkage down to the bottom with your fingers, then release the brake pedal to complete the self-setting position; replace the brake light switch.
As a long-time Touareg owner with nearly a decade of experience, I've encountered ABS sensor failures before. When this happens, the ABS warning light on the dashboard stays illuminated, indicating potential anti-lock braking system malfunction. This means wheels may lock up and skid during emergency braking, especially dangerous on slippery surfaces. While the vehicle remains drivable, braking performance is significantly compromised - I'd advise against long-distance trips or venturing on unfamiliar roads. First, try checking if the wheel sensor area is clogged with dirt or debris; a simple cleaning might resolve the issue. If the light persists, visit an authorized dealership immediately for diagnosis - the sensor might need replacement. Prolonged neglect could affect other systems, so prioritize safety above all.
Having worked in car maintenance for many years, I often encounter such issues. A faulty ABS sensor can cause the ABS computer to misjudge wheel speed, leading to the failure of the anti-lock braking function. During emergency braking, the wheels may lock up, increasing the risk of accidents. The car can still be driven, but it's highly unsafe, especially during sharp turns in the city or high-speed lane changes. It's recommended to check for loose connections or oxidized contacts as soon as possible; a simple test is to use the car key to check the ABS light. If it lights up, don't wait—take it to a professional shop immediately for inspection and repair. Replacing the sensor isn't expensive, but delaying it too long can damage the braking system. Remember to perform regular maintenance to avoid dust buildup.
I'm a new driver who just bought a Tiguan. When the ABS sensor fails and the yellow ABS light on the dashboard comes on, the car can still be driven, but the brakes may not work properly during emergency braking. For safety reasons, it's best not to drive too fast or too far, especially when carrying passengers, as the risk is high. Try cleaning any dirt around the sensor to see if the light goes off. If that doesn't work, drive directly to a nearby repair shop for inspection. It's fine for daily driving, but don't take unnecessary risks.
