Q: ABS light on even though brakes work fine

asked by on February 10, 2016

The ABS light is on even though the brakes work fine. I once had to apply the brakes hard, the wheels locked up, and there was no grinding sound. At speeds ranging from 13 to 14 MPH, the ABS is not checking the system and is letting out a low metallic sound. While driving, I can also hear a rhythmic metallic noise. When I put it into reverse, there is a loud clanking sound and the car vibrates while in motion.

ABS Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The most likely failure is the rear end is having problems with internal bearings of the pinion gear. The noise you hear is the gears clashing in the rear end due to the bearings in the pinion gear. The ASB light is most likely coming on from the rear axle sensor that is mounted in the rear axle assembly is either damaged or covered in metal from the rear end grind of the bearings and gears. I recommend having a mechanic, inspect your issue with the ABS Light and verify if any work or replacement needs to be done.

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

The car slides when driven on bumpy roads
Hello. If the vehicle has aftermarket wheels on it then they may have the wrong offset which will cause this. If the wheels are original then the rear suspension needs to be checked for worn parts. If the suspension is...
How do I find out with my 2008 Honda Accord Sedan 4cyl engine is California or Federal regulated for emissions?
All cars have an emissions sticker on the core support, (radiator bracket), or on the under side of the hood. You will need to read the sticker and look for it to say California. If it doesn't, it will be...
There is a leak around the thermostat housing which resulted in decreasing water in the radiator
Hi there. First thing we need to determine is from where on the housing is the coolant leaking. If it is coming from the thermostat location in the housing, it could simply be a thermostat gasket/O-ring leaking. If the leak...
Making a ticking noise when ideling
This may very well be a slight bit of excess valve train noise. Your car should have the timing belt replaced around every 60,000-70,000 miles. If it is possible that you may have put that many miles on the car...
Downsizing tires.
What is important to note when comparing tire sizes is what each of the numbers stands for. The first number denotes the width of the tire. The second number is what is known as the aspect ratio, which denotes the...
Lack of acceleration
Hello There, There are many reasons that may cause your car to be sluggish upon acceleration (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-slow-to-accelerate-inspection) such as a clogged catalytic converter, dirty fuel injectors, a faulty mass air flow sensor, low fuel pressure and many other things. I...
Affirm Payments
Customer service can assist you with your inquiry. Your request has been forwarded to customer service.
At 60k miles my 2014 Nissan Rogue is needing transmission maintenance, Its sounding like its winding up and the gear shift has loc
The transmission service (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service) should definitely be performed based on the age and mileage alone. The CVT transmission life will be greatly extended by maintaining it properly. Not being able to shift it from Park is a separate issue. Modern...
Replaced pcm in a 2011 grand caravan why won't it turn over
You will need to have the computer reprogrammed at a dealer to work on your car. The PCM is designed to only give three starts then lock you out unless reprogrammed.

Related articles

How Anti-Lock Brakes Work
An An anti-lock brake system (ABS) is a braking system that is made to allow a vehicle to maintain traction with the road when braking. Braking is controlled by driver input via the brake pedal, and older braking systems response...
How Disc Brakes Work
Car disc brake systems are made up of the rotor, brake pads, pistons, and caliper. The pistons push the pads into the rotor to slow or stop your car.
Lincoln Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Lincoln certified pre-owned cars are under 7 years old, have less than 60,000 miles, and come with a 6 year or 100,000 miles comprehensive warranty.