What does it mean when the ABS light is on in a car and how to fix it?
2 Answers
The ABS light being on in a car indicates a fault in the anti-lock braking system. The solutions are: 1. Check whether the brake fluid is leaking, whether the wires are damaged, whether the plug is loose, and whether the brake fluid level is too low; 2. Go to a repair shop for professional repair and use a computer to clear the fault code. The function of the anti-lock braking system is to automatically control the braking force of the brake during car braking, so that the wheels are not locked and are in a state of rolling and sliding, ensuring that the adhesion between the wheels and the ground is at the maximum. During braking, the ABS quickly determines the locking state of the wheels based on the speed signals from each wheel speed sensor, closes the normally open input solenoid valve on the wheels that are beginning to lock, and keeps the braking force unchanged.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered the ABS light coming on a few times. Simply put, it means there's a fault in the anti-lock braking system. It could be due to dust or mud buildup on the wheel speed sensor causing unstable signals, or a loose connection in the system wiring. Once on a rainy day when I went out, the ABS light suddenly came on. Feeling nervous, I immediately pulled over to check the tire area and sure enough, one of the sensors was clogged with mud. I cleaned it myself with a small brush, and the light went off. If cleaning doesn't fix it, don't take it lightly—head to a repair shop right away to scan for fault codes with a diagnostic computer. If it turns out the module is damaged, you'll need to replace it. For regular maintenance, I make it a habit to clean the undercarriage periodically to prevent such issues. The ABS is a lifesaver in critical moments; when the light is on, braking performance is reduced, making driving extremely dangerous. Don't compromise safety to save money—safety always comes first.
