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2018 Silverado 1500 ABS/Traction Control lights on, grinding noise

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Mark S. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:33 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT

Hey everyone, I've got a problem with my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT. Recently, the ABS and Traction Control warning lights came on simultaneously on my dash. It also feels like there's a slight grinding or humming noise coming from the front end, especially noticeable at lower speeds.

I'm worried this could be a serious issue. I haven't noticed any immediate changes in braking performance, but the lights are definitely concerning. Has anyone experienced this with their Silverado, particularly around this model year?

What should I be looking for? Could it be a wheel speed sensor, or something more involved with the ABS module itself? Any advice on troubleshooting or common fixes would be greatly appreciated before I take it to a shop.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:33 AM

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Hi Mark,

It sounds like you're dealing with a common issue that often points to a problem within your Silverado's ABS system. The simultaneous illumination of the ABS and Traction Control lights, coupled with a grinding noise, strongly suggests a wheel speed sensor or wheel bearing issue.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and steps:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure:

    • Cause: These sensors monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and send data to the ABS module. If one fails, the system can't accurately determine wheel speed, triggering the lights. A common OBD-II code associated with this is P0500 (Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction) or specific codes like C0035 (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit), C0040 (Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit), etc.
    • Diagnosis: A faulty sensor can sometimes cause a grinding or humming noise if it's physically damaged or if the tone ring it reads from is compromised.

  2. Wheel Bearing Wear:

    • Cause: A worn or failing wheel bearing can produce a grinding or humming noise that changes with speed or turning. Severe wear can also affect the wheel speed sensor's operation, as the sensor is often integrated into or mounted near the bearing assembly.
    • Diagnosis: If the bearing is failing, there might be excessive play in the wheel when lifted and wiggled.

  3. Damaged ABS Tone Ring:

    • Cause: The tone ring is a toothed ring that the wheel speed sensor reads. If it's cracked, corroded, or damaged, it can send erratic signals to the ABS module.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: While braking performance might seem normal now, a compromised ABS/Traction Control system can reduce your vehicle's safety, especially in emergency braking or slippery conditions. It's best to address this promptly.
  • Professional Diagnosis: A professional shop can use a diagnostic scanner to read specific ABS/Traction Control codes (C-codes) that generic OBD-II scanners might miss. This will pinpoint the exact wheel speed sensor or circuit that's malfunctioning. They can also inspect the wheel bearings and tone rings for physical damage.

Ignoring these warning lights can lead to more significant issues down the road. Get it checked out soon to ensure your Silverado remains safe and reliable.

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