How to reset the ABS light after four-wheel maintenance?
3 Answers
Turn on the ignition switch, press and hold the "Reset Button 5" with one hand, and turn off the ignition switch with the other hand; Keep holding the "Reset Button 5" until the clock and mileage on the dashboard completely disappear, then release the button; Press and hold the "Reset Button 5" again with one hand, then turn on the ignition switch.
After the last four-wheel maintenance, my ABS light came on. I suspected it might be due to oil or dust contamination on the sensors, as removing and reinstalling the wheels during maintenance can inevitably cause some dirt. I tried turning off the engine and restarting the car several times—sometimes the system resets on its own, but this time it didn’t work. I also crouched down to check the sensors behind the wheels but didn’t notice any obvious dirt. I gently wiped the connectors, but the light remained on. This made me a bit anxious because ABS is crucial for braking safety, and if something went wrong while driving on the highway in the rain, it could be dangerous. I looked it up online, and some suggested using a simple OBD tool to clear the fault code, but I didn’t have the equipment. So, I quickly scheduled an inspection at a repair shop. In the end, they found that the left front wheel sensor was faulty and replaced it, which fixed the issue. My advice is not to delay—get it checked promptly to avoid accidents.
After encountering the ABS light turning on post four-wheel maintenance, as a DIY veteran, I first troubleshoot it myself. Check if the wheel speed sensors are blocked by mud or debris, and clean the connector areas with a cloth. Then, restart the car engine a few times to see if the system resets itself. If that doesn’t work, I use my own OBD scanner to read the fault codes—usually indicating which wheel’s sensor is faulty. For example, code C1234 points to a right rear sensor issue. After cleaning or tightening, try clearing the fault code to reset it. If it still doesn’t resolve, you’ll need to remove the wheel and inspect the sensor wiring for damage or disconnection—this task requires some hands-on experience. Remember, the ABS system is critical; don’t tamper with internal components recklessly—safety first. If all else fails, take the car to a professional shop; it usually costs just a few dozen bucks to fix.
