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2019 Regal Sportback - ABS/StabiliTrak Lights & Rough Shifting

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Amanda S. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:52 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Buick Regal Sportback Preferred

Hello everyone,

I'm experiencing a concerning issue with my 2019 Buick Regal Sportback, specifically the Preferred trim. The ABS and StabiliTrak warning lights have both illuminated on my dashboard. Simultaneously, I've noticed that the car is shifting much more roughly than usual, almost like it's struggling to find the right gear, especially at lower speeds.

I haven't hit any major potholes or had any recent work done on the car. Could these issues be related? I'm worried about driving it like this. Has anyone else encountered this combination of problems with their Regal?

Thanks for your insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:52 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's highly likely that the illuminated ABS and StabiliTrak lights, along with the rough shifting, are interconnected. These systems rely heavily on wheel speed sensor data, and a fault in one can impact the others.

Possible Causes:

  1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor (WSS): This is the most common cause. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If one fails, the ABS and StabiliTrak systems lose crucial data, triggering warning lights. The transmission control module (TCM) also uses this data for proper shift points, so a bad WSS can cause rough or incorrect shifting.
  2. Damaged WSS Wiring/Connector: The wiring leading to the wheel speed sensor can become damaged, corroded, or disconnected, leading to similar symptoms.
  3. ABS Module Failure: Less common, but a faulty ABS control module itself could cause these issues. However, a WSS is a more frequent failure point.
  4. Tone Ring Damage: The tone ring (or reluctor ring) is a toothed wheel that the WSS reads. If it's damaged or corroded, the sensor will get incorrect readings.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. OBD-II Scan: Use an advanced scan tool (not just a basic engine code reader) to check for C-codes (Chassis codes). You'll likely find codes related to a specific wheel speed sensor, such as C0035 (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit), C0040 (Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit), etc.
  2. Visual Inspection: If a specific wheel is identified, visually inspect the wheel speed sensor and its wiring at that wheel for any obvious damage, fraying, or loose connections.

When to See a Shop:

Given that the ABS and StabiliTrak systems are critical for vehicle safety, and the rough shifting indicates a potential impact on the transmission, it's strongly recommended to have your Regal Sportback professionally diagnosed as soon as possible. A mechanic can accurately read the specific fault codes, test the wheel speed sensors, and inspect the wiring. Driving with these warning lights on means your ABS and StabiliTrak systems are likely disabled, which can compromise your vehicle's handling and braking performance, especially in emergency situations.

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