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2018 Silverado ABS & Traction Control lights on, weird braking

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT

My 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT is having some brake issues. The ABS and Traction Control lights came on last week and now the brakes feel really weird, almost like they're grinding or pulsing, especially at lower speeds. It's making me nervous to drive it.

I checked the fluid, and it seems okay. Has anyone experienced this before? What should I be looking for? Is this something I can fix myself or do I need to take it to a shop immediately?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:40 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

When your ABS and Traction Control lights illuminate together, it almost always points to an issue within the anti-lock braking system, often related to wheel speed sensors. The grinding/pulsing sensation you describe is the ABS system activating unnecessarily, which aligns with a sensor malfunction.

Common Causes:

  • Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor: This is the most common culprit. Sensors can get dirty, damaged, or fail electronically. A faulty sensor sends incorrect speed data to the ABS module, causing it to misinterpret wheel lock-up or slip.
  • Damaged ABS Tone Ring: The tone ring (or reluctor ring) provides the speed sensor with its signal. If it's cracked, corroded, or has debris, the sensor can't read correctly.
  • Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring to the wheel speed sensors or the ABS module can interrupt signals.
  • ABS Module Failure: Less common, but the ABS control module itself can fail, though usually, this is accompanied by more persistent and severe braking issues.

Diagnostics & Steps:

  1. Scan for OBD Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner capable of reading ABS codes. Common codes related to wheel speed sensors include C0035 (Left Front), C0040 (Right Front), C0045 (Left Rear), C0050 (Right Rear).
  2. Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors: Visually check each wheel speed sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or debris. They are typically located near the wheel hub/bearing assembly.
  3. Check Tone Rings: While inspecting the sensors, look at the tone rings (if visible) for any cracks, missing teeth, or excessive rust.
  4. Test Sensor Resistance: If you have a multimeter, you can test the resistance of the sensors, though specifications vary by model.

When to See a Shop:

Given that your braking performance is compromised, it's highly recommended to have this inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with a malfunctioning ABS system can increase your stopping distance and reduce vehicle control, especially in emergency braking situations. A shop can accurately diagnose the specific sensor or component at fault and perform the necessary repairs, which might include replacing a wheel speed sensor, repairing wiring, or in rare cases, replacing the ABS module.

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