2020 Outlander GT - ABS and ASC lights on after rear brake replacement

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Paul Z. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:33 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander GT

Hey everyone,

I just replaced the rear brake pads and rotors on my 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander GT last weekend. Everything seemed to go smoothly, but now the ABS warning light and the ASC (Active Stability Control) light are both illuminated on my dashboard.

I've driven it a few times since, and the lights haven't gone off. The brakes feel fine, no strange noises or pulling, but having those warning lights on is definitely concerning. I double-checked all the connections I could see around the calipers and sensors, but I'm not sure what else to look for.

Could this be related to the brake job itself, or is it just a coincidence? Has anyone else experienced this after doing their own brakes on a newer Outlander? Any advice on what to check next before I have to take it to a shop would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's quite common for ABS and ASC lights to illuminate after brake work, especially if a wheel speed sensor was disturbed or if the system detected an anomaly during the process. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and steps you can take:

  1. Check Wheel Speed Sensors:

    • Cause: The most frequent culprit. The wheel speed sensors (WSS) are crucial for both ABS and ASC systems. They can be easily damaged, dislodged, or have their wiring stretched/pinched during brake component replacement. Even a small amount of debris on the sensor or tone ring can cause issues.
    • Action: Carefully inspect the wheel speed sensors at both rear wheels. Ensure they are securely seated, the wiring harnesses are intact and properly connected, and there's no visible damage. Look for any metal shavings or dirt on the sensor tip or the tone ring (the toothed ring the sensor reads).
  2. Brake Fluid Level and Air in System:

    • Cause: While less common for just lights without spongy pedal, if the brake fluid reservoir ran low during the job or if air was introduced into the lines (e.g., if a caliper was disconnected and not properly bled), it could affect system pressure and trigger warnings.
    • Action: Check your brake fluid level. If it was low, top it off. If you suspect air, a proper brake bleed might be necessary.
  3. Parking Brake Engagement:

    • Cause: On some vehicles, if the electronic parking brake (EPB) was not properly disengaged or re-engaged during the service, it could trigger related warnings.
    • Action: Ensure your parking brake is fully released and try engaging/disengaging it a few times.
  4. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):

    • Cause: The ABS/ASC system will store specific codes indicating the fault. Common codes related to wheel speed sensors include C102A, C102B, C1031, C1032, etc., which point to issues with the left or right rear wheel speed sensor circuit.
    • Action: The best next step is to get the vehicle scanned with an OBD-II scanner capable of reading ABS/Chassis codes. Generic scanners often only read engine codes. Knowing the specific DTCs will pinpoint the exact problem area.

When to See a Shop: If after checking the wheel speed sensor connections and ensuring proper brake fluid levels, the lights remain on, or if you don't have access to an advanced scanner, it's best to take your Outlander to a qualified mechanic. They have specialized diagnostic tools to accurately read the codes, test the sensors, and diagnose any underlying issues with the ABS module or wiring. Driving with these lights on means your ABS and ASC systems are likely disabled, which can compromise safety in emergency braking or slippery conditions.