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Summary
  • ABS includes wheel speed sensors, an electronic control unit, a warning light, and a hydraulic modulator with solenoid valves. The control and hydraulic units are usually combined into one assembly.
  • Each wheel has a tone ring and sensor that track wheel speed. The ring resembles a toothed bicycle sprocket and may be visible on the hub, integrated into the CV joint or brake rotor, or hidden as a magnetic array in the hub bearing seal.
  • Use a scan tool and check the ABS warning light to identify issues. Problems often stem from tire pressure, brake fluid level, or fuses. Some vehicles let you turn ABS off, and consulting a brake specialist is recommended.

The basic components common to all anti-lock brake systems include wheel sensors, an electronic control unit, an ABS warning light, and a hydraulic modulator assembly with electrically operated solenoid valves. Usually, the control unit and the hydraulic control unit (HCU) are built together; sometimes they can be separated and purchased separately; sometimes they can’t.

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tone ring and wheel speed sensor
Close-up of an ABS tone ring and wheel speed sensor on a vehicle hub. The toothed ring rotates with the wheel while the sensor monitors its speed to help prevent wheel lock-up during braking. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian

If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), it should have a tone ring-on each wheel hub, but don’t be surprised if you can’t see it. Sometimes it’s hidden and you can’t see it unless you remove the wheel speed sensor. Other times it’s plainly visible. It may be part of the CV joint or it may be part of the brake rotor. It can also just be a magnetic array built into the hub bearing seal, which is totally invisible. 

In most cases, these circular objects look a lot like bicycle sprockets with teeth. Each ring has awheel speed sensor that monitors how fast each wheel is spinning. The number of sensors may differ depending on how the system is configured.

Tips Tips for ABS-Related Repairs

abs control module and hydraulic control unit assembly
ABS control module and hydraulic control unit assembly in a vehicle. The control module processes sensor data, while the hydraulic unit adjusts brake pressure through solenoid valves to prevent wheel lock-up. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian

Before pulling your vehicle apart to check the ABS, use ascan tool first to determine whether or not there’s a system fault. You can also check if the ABS warning light is on. ABS-related issues are often tied to other factors, includinglow or high tire pressure, lowbrake fluid level, and fuse operation. 

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There are some vehicles that have a switch on the control panel that can disable ABS operation, but this feature can vary from one model to another. 

Consider consulting a brake specialist before attempting any fixes on your vehicle, as brake repairs may require advanced technical knowledge.

About The Authors
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

File Under : Braking System , Auto Repair , DIY Tagged With : ,
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