Q: ABS and BRAKE light both on

asked by on October 04, 2016

The ABS and BRAKE light have been on since the weather got hot but now that iot is getting cooler, both lights rarely come on. Looks like the problem is temperature related. Looks to me as though it is the ABS Control Module with a cold solder joint!!

ABS Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
ABS Speed Sensor Replacement $123.10 - $666.75 Get a Quote

This issue is very common and is typically related to a worn out ABS Speed Sensor. The function of the speed sensor is to monitor the way the tires rotate, and make sure that the ABS system is triggered if there is any difference or slippage between the wheels. If the sensor detects a difference, it sends a message to the controller, telling it to engage the ABS, overriding your manual braking. While the weather is cooling down, it might be a good idea to have a professional from YourMechanic inspect your vehicle, so the component doesn’t fail entirely; which could create an unsafe driving situation. If a replacement is needed, YourMechanic is able to come to your home or place of business to replace the sensor the sensor.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Truck idles, but then dies
Hello. If it starts and runs fine when you adjust the timing and then turns off right after you accelerate then the timing may be changing right then. It may be a distributor problem, or more commonly, a failing timing...
Car won't turn over, cracked multi-vee belt, & service b exceeded
For the starting issue the drive authorization system should be looked at. Low battery voltage or a component failure can cause the starter to not turn over. The other items are maintenance items and can be taken care by a...
steering completely broke driving down the road
This sounds a lot like the steering shaft snapped and is no longer connected to the steering rack. You can check this by looking underneath the dash up above the gas and brake pedal (you can't miss the steering shaft)...
When I turn the key, it does nothing
Hi, thanks for writing in. Sometimes when you accidentally connect a metal wrench to a positive battery terminal, it may cause a fuse to pop, causing the vehicle to not start. The first thing I'd do is inspect the fuse...
Keeps overheating and I've already got the radiator flushed and the replaced the thermostat
Hi, thanks for writing in. You will need to have the cooling fan clutch checked to see if it is working properly. The engine will not cool properly if the clutch is not locking enough as the engine gets hot....
Low fluctuating oil pressure when engine is cold and noisy lifters when driving over 50 miles an hour
There are several causes for low oil pressure (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-pressure-light-is-on-inspection). They include components such as crankshaft bearings, to things like an oil filter or pump. A leaking o-ring will cause some issues, mostly related to low oil levels. The oil passages...
Both the AdvTrac and ABS Lights are on; how do I disengage them?
Hi, and thanks for contacting YourMechanic. First, try checking the ABS sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/abs-speed-sensor-replacement) for a proper connection. You may need to remove the sensors and clean them off. If there was any moisture on the sensors while the vehicle sat,...
Çv boot torn
Hi There, Unfortunately, there is no way to tell exactly how far your car will make it with a torn CV joint boot. Depending on how long this has been torn and how much damage has already occurred, this may...
I have a 09 Nissan Altima 2.5 Base Sedan has about 85k miles. After driving the car for about 15-20 on really hot days it starts m
Hi there. In some cases, a problem with the EVAP system; either an EVAP canister or purge solenoid can cause this type of symptom on extremely hot days. Another possibility is that you have an obstruction of fuel somewhere in...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Have Limited Mobility
When When you have limited mobility there are a number of challenges you face, one of these can be with your vehicle. Finding a car that meets your specific needs, and addressing your challenges can mean the difference between being...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
Common signs of a faulty crankshaft position sensor include issues starting the vehicle, intermittent stalling, and the Check Engine Light coming on.
How to Replace a Crankshaft Position Sensor
The crankshaft position sensor, along with the camshaft sensor, helps the vehicle determine top dead center, among other engine management tasks.