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2016 HR-V ABS and Traction Control Lights On

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:45 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Honda HR-V EX

Hi all,

My 2016 Honda HR-V EX, with around 95,000 miles, suddenly has both the ABS warning light and the Traction Control (VSA) warning light illuminated on the dashboard. They came on simultaneously a couple of days ago and haven't gone off since.

The car feels like it's driving normally, and I haven't noticed any issues with braking or traction, but having these lights on is definitely concerning. I tried a basic OBD-II scan, but it didn't pull any codes, which I guess isn't surprising since it's not a check engine light issue.

Has anyone else experienced both the ABS and VSA lights coming on together in their HR-V or another Honda model? What was the cause? Is this likely a wheel speed sensor, or could it be something more serious with the ABS module? Any advice on how to proceed would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:45 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist, Honda's term for Traction Control) lights illuminate simultaneously on your 2016 Honda HR-V, it typically indicates a shared problem affecting both systems. These systems are interconnected and rely on the same sensors and control module. While a standard OBD-II scanner might not show codes, a more advanced scanner can read ABS/VSA-specific diagnostic trouble codes.

Here are the most common causes:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor (WSS) Failure: This is the most frequent culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If one sensor fails or sends inconsistent readings, the ABS/VSA system can't accurately determine wheel speeds, leading to system deactivation and warning lights.
  2. Damaged WSS Wiring/Connector: The wiring leading to a wheel speed sensor can become frayed, damaged, or disconnected due to road debris, corrosion, or wear and tear, especially on older vehicles.
  3. Faulty ABS Tone Ring: The tone ring (or reluctor ring) is a toothed ring that the WSS reads. If it's cracked, corroded, or clogged with debris, the sensor can't get an accurate reading.
  4. ABS Module Failure: Less common, but the ABS control module itself can fail. This is a more expensive repair and usually confirmed after ruling out sensor issues.
  5. Low Brake Fluid/Other Brake Issues: While less directly tied to WSS, severe brake system issues can sometimes trigger related warnings.

What to do:

  • Step 1: Visual Inspection of Wheel Speed Sensors and Wiring: Carefully inspect each wheel speed sensor and its wiring. Look for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. This often requires removing the wheel.
  • Step 2: Check for Debris on Tone Rings: While inspecting the sensors, also check the tone rings (usually visible behind the brake rotor) for any rust, cracks, or embedded debris.
  • Step 3: Professional Scan: Since your basic scanner didn't show codes, the next step is to get the vehicle scanned with a diagnostic tool capable of reading ABS/VSA specific codes. This will usually pinpoint which wheel speed sensor (e.g., 'Front Left Wheel Speed Sensor Fault') or other component is at fault.

When to see a shop:

It's highly recommended to take your HR-V to a trusted mechanic or Honda dealership. While the car might seem to drive normally, both ABS and VSA are crucial safety systems. If they are disabled, your vehicle will not have anti-lock braking or traction control in emergency situations, which can be dangerous. A professional shop can:

  • Accurately read the specific ABS/VSA diagnostic codes.
  • Perform live data monitoring of each wheel speed sensor while driving to identify erratic readings.
  • Diagnose and replace faulty sensors, wiring, or tone rings, or, in rarer cases, the ABS module itself.
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