ABS and ASC lights on after hitting a pothole in my 2020 Outlander Sport

ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you've encountered a common issue after a significant impact like hitting a pothole. The simultaneous illumination of the ABS and ASC lights strongly suggests a problem within the wheel speed sensor system or related components. Here's what's likely happening and what you should do:

1. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): The first step is to get the vehicle scanned for codes. A generic OBD-II scanner might show powertrain codes, but for ABS/ASC issues, you'll likely need a more advanced scanner capable of reading chassis (C-codes) and ABS module codes. Common codes related to this issue include:

   • C0031 - C0034: Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction (for specific wheels, e.g., C0031 for Front Left).
   • C0040 - C0043: Wheel Speed Sensor Signal Malfunction.
   • C102A - C102D: Wheel Speed Sensor Output Signal Error. These codes will pinpoint which wheel's sensor or wiring is affected.

2. Inspect the Wheel Area: Visually inspect the wheel and suspension components around the area where you hit the pothole. Look for:

   • Damaged Wheel Speed Sensor: The sensor itself might be cracked, dislodged, or have a broken wire.
   • Damaged Wiring Harness: The wiring leading to the sensor could be frayed, cut, or disconnected.
   • Bent or Damaged Tone Ring: This is a toothed ring (sometimes integrated into the wheel bearing) that the sensor reads. Impact can damage or deform it.
   • Suspension Damage: While less direct for the lights, a severely bent control arm or tie rod could affect alignment and potentially stress sensor wiring. This could also explain the pulling sensation.

3. Common Causes:

   • Impact Damage: The most direct cause, as the pothole could have physically damaged the sensor, its wiring, or the tone ring.
   • Loose Connection: The impact might have simply jarred a connector loose.
   • Wheel Bearing Damage: In some cases, a severe impact can damage the wheel bearing, which can affect the integrated tone ring and thus the wheel speed sensor's reading.

4. When to See a Shop:

   • Immediately: If you notice any significant change in braking performance, a grinding noise, or if the pulling sensation becomes severe. Driving with disabled ABS and ASC means you lose critical safety features, especially in emergency braking or slippery conditions.
   • As soon as possible: Even if the car seems to drive fine, these systems are crucial for safety. A professional technician can accurately diagnose the specific fault using specialized diagnostic tools, replace damaged components (like the wheel speed sensor or wiring harness), and perform an alignment if the pulling persists, which is highly recommended after hitting a significant pothole to prevent premature tire wear and ensure safe handling.