What are the reasons for the ABS warning light and heavy steering wheel in the Land Rover Evoque?
3 Answers
Land Rover Evoque ABS warning light and heavy steering wheel may be caused by the ABS speed sensor sensing part being covered; poor signal due to loose connections between system lines, poor contact of ABS relay, etc., leading to system failure. The reason for the heavy steering wheel in the Land Rover Evoque is a leak in the power pump oil pipe or lack of oil in the oil cup, causing the booster pump to not work and resulting in heavy steering. The solution is to check whether the power steering pump has oil pressure or if there is a fault in the oil circuit. If the ABS speed sensor sensing part is covered by dirt, mud, or other contaminants, it affects the sensor's ability to detect the corresponding speed signal, preventing the ABS computer from determining the vehicle speed and the wheel slip rate, and thus unable to issue appropriate commands to adjust braking. The solution is to clean the dirt on the speed sensor and adjust the gap between the speed sensor and the signal ring to restore normal function. Poor signal due to loose connections between system lines or poor contact of the ABS relay can lead to system failure. The most common issue is a loose speed sensor wire connection, which will also show a poor speed sensor signal in the ABS computer's fault memory. The solution is to check the line connections and reconnect any loose parts.
I've dealt with quite a few Range Rover Evoque issues like this. There are many reasons why the ABS warning light comes on and the steering wheel becomes heavy. A common cause is a faulty ABS sensor, such as the wheel speed sensor being covered in dirt or damaged, which can cause the system to misjudge and trigger the warning light. Additionally, if the vehicle has electric power steering, it may be affected and become heavier. Blown fuses are another common issue—they protect the circuit during high current but cut off the signal. Loose or corroded wiring harness connectors can also lead to similar problems. There's also the possibility of an ABS module or software bug, where the light comes on and the steering gets heavy, which can be dangerous while driving. If the brakes fail or steering becomes unresponsive, it could easily lead to an accident. I recommend not pushing through and driving; instead, take it to a professional shop as soon as possible to check the circuits and sensors. The repairs aren't expensive and are much safer.
My Range Rover Evoque had the same issue last year—the ABS light came on, and the steering wheel suddenly became so heavy it was hard to turn, making my palms sweat while driving. After repairs, it was found that the wheel speed sensor had failed, causing the ABS system to falsely report a fault. Once the light came on, the power steering would fail. This car has a complex electronic system, and potential fault points also include aging fuses or voltage fluctuations affecting module operation. If the wiring harness connectors get wet and rust, it can cause the same issue by disrupting signal transmission. Don’t underestimate the ABS light—when steering becomes heavy, control becomes difficult, and it’s even more dangerous on highways. I’ve learned my lesson: regularly clean the wheel hubs during car washes to prevent sensor clogging; if this happens, slow down immediately, stop, and either inspect or tow it for repairs. Safety always comes first—nothing is more important.
