ABS warning light
Also called: anti-lock brake light
Anti-lock braking is off. Normal brakes still work.
What it means
The ABS light means the anti-lock brake system has a fault and is turned off. Your regular brakes still work, but wheels can lock up in a hard stop or on wet roads. Traction and stability control usually turn off too.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
It came on once after driving through deep water or mud and went off after a restart.
Schedule a repair
It stays on. Normal brakes work, so it's safe to drive carefully to a repair. Leave extra stopping distance, especially in rain.
Stop and get help
It's on together with the red brake light, or the pedal feels wrong. Don't drive it. That combination can mean a serious brake problem.
Common causes
- Failed wheel speed sensor (most common)
- Damaged sensor wiring near a wheel
- Low brake fluid
- ABS module or pump fault
What to do right now
- Brake gently and leave extra distance
- Check whether the red brake light is also on
- Have the codes read to find which wheel sensor failed
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the abs warning light mean?
Anti-lock braking is off. Normal brakes still work. The ABS light means the anti-lock brake system has a fault and is turned off. Your regular brakes still work, but wheels can lock up in a hard stop or on wet roads. Traction and stability control usually turn off too.
Can I keep driving with the abs warning light on?
Green: It came on once after driving through deep water or mud and went off after a restart. Yellow: It stays on. Normal brakes work, so it's safe to drive carefully to a repair. Leave extra stopping distance, especially in rain. Red: It's on together with the red brake light, or the pedal feels wrong. Don't drive it. That combination can mean a serious brake problem.
What causes the abs warning light?
Common causes: failed wheel speed sensor (most common); damaged sensor wiring near a wheel; low brake fluid; aBS module or pump fault.
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