abs wheel speed sensor wiring harness

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors in Canada

Your ABS wheel speed sensor is the component that makes anti-lock braking possible. It monitors the rotational speed of each wheel in real time and sends that data to your vehicle's ABS control module, which uses it to prevent wheel lockup during emergency stops. When a sensor fails, your ABS loses the input it needs, on wet, icy, or gravel road surfaces, the difference between a controlled stop and a skid can come down to whether your wheel speed data is reaching the module.

What Is an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor?

An ABS wheel speed sensor, also called a brake speed sensor or wheel sensor, is an electromagnetic or Hall-effect sensor mounted near each wheel hub or bearing assembly. It generates an electronic signal as a toothed reluctor ring rotates past it, producing a frequency the ABS module interprets as wheel speed. On most modern vehicles, this same data feeds your traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), and electronic brake force distribution (EBD), making a functioning wheel speed sensor critical to the safe operation of multiple vehicle systems simultaneously.

Signs of a Failing ABS Wheel Speed Sensor

A failing ABS wheel speed sensor typically produces warning lights before it causes a complete system failure. Common symptoms include:

• ABS warning light on the dashboard, the most common first indicator
• Traction control or ESC warning light illuminated alongside the ABS light
• ABS activating during normal stops at low speed where it should not engage
• Complete ABS deactivation, wheels lock under hard braking
• Speedometer reading erratically or dropping to zero at speed on some vehicle models
• Fault codes in the C0035–C0050 range stored in the ABS control module

Passive vs. Active ABS Sensors, Which Type Does Your Vehicle Use?

GeoBrakes stocks both passive (magnetic) and active (Hall-effect) ABS wheel speed sensors, as well as integrated hub-and-sensor assemblies for vehicles where the sensor is built into the wheel bearing unit.

Passive sensors use an analog signal generated by the movement of a toothed ring past a fixed magnetic tip. They require no power supply and are found on older vehicles and many trucks and SUVs still in service today. Active Hall-effect sensors require a small power supply and output a clean digital square-wave signal, offering greater accuracy at very low speeds. Active sensors are standard on most vehicles manufactured after the mid-2000s and are required for full compatibility with modern traction and stability control systems.

Why GeoBrakes for ABS Wheel Speed Sensors?

Signal accuracy matters as much as fitment with wheel speed sensors. A sensor that generates the correct frequency for your vehicle's ABS module ensures consistent ABS calibration, proper traction control thresholds, and accurate stability control response, not just a light that turns off. Every sensor in the GeoBrakes catalogue is matched to your exact year, make, and model through our vehicle selector, with front and rear positions listed separately to eliminate position errors. Our catalogue covers all major makes including Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Hyundai, backed by full manufacturer warranty on every purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About ABS Wheel Speed Sensors

Q: Can I drive with a faulty ABS wheel speed sensor?

A: You can drive with a failed ABS sensor, but your anti-lock braking system will be completely disabled. On icy or wet Canadian roads, this significantly increases stopping distances and the risk of losing steering control during hard braking. Replacing a failed sensor promptly is strongly recommended, particularly before winter.

Q: How do I find the right ABS sensor for my vehicle?

A: Use the GeoBrakes vehicle selector and enter your year, make, and model. The system displays only the sensors confirmed to fit your exact vehicle, with front and rear positions listed separately. Select the position matching the sensor you are replacing to avoid receiving the wrong unit.

Q: Do I need to replace all four ABS sensors at the same time?

A: No. ABS wheel speed sensors are independent components and only the failed unit needs to be replaced. However, if your vehicle has high mileage and one sensor has failed, it is worth visually inspecting the connector and wiring on the other sensors for corrosion or chafing damage while the wheel is removed.