Tips to Diagnose Wheel Speed Sensor Issues in European Cars

Nowadays, all the modern European cars are coming equipped with a host of sensors that keep a tab on the functioning of the crucial components in your vehicle. The wheel speed sensor in your European car is one such crucial sensor that provide the onboard computers with accurate wheel rotation data.

In fact, the data generated by the wheel speed sensor is used by various components in the vehicle for their optimal functioning. However, issues with the functioning of the wheel speed sensor in your European car can make it difficult for you to drive your vehicle. Here are some tips to help diagnose wheel speed sensor issues in European cars.

Tips to Diagnose Wheel Speed Sensor Issues

Look for ABS, Traction Control, and Stability Control Lights

One of the initial signs of issues with the functioning of the wheel speed sensor in your vehicle is related to the illumination of the warning lights on the dashboard of the vehicle. The information generated by the wheel speed sensor is used by the ABS system, Electronic Stability System (ESC), and Traction Control System (TCS) for their efficient functioning.

Now, when the wheel speed sensor begins to send inaccurate data to the onboard computers, then your European car’s control module begins to detect the abnormality, and this is when the warning light gets activated in your vehicle.

In most of the cases, the drivers come across an illuminated ABS warning light, then the traction control light gets activated, followed by the stability control warning lights. Furthermore, in certain European cars, the adaptive cruise control, hill descent control, or electronic differential systems warning messages appear on the dashboard.

Check the Wiring Harness and Electrical Connectors

There are several instances of wheel speed sensor issues originating because of damaged wiring with the sensor being intact. In fact, the wiring harness, which connects the sensor to the ABS control module moves along the suspension components, where it encounters constant vibration, steering movement, and exposure to moisture and road debris.

Over the years, as your vehicle gains miles, the insulation might wear of, the connectors might get loosened, or the internal wires will develop fractures due to repeated flexing. When you take your European car to a certified auto repair shop, then the professional technicians are going to inspect the entire wiring harness for any underlying issues that might be affecting the functionality of your wiring harness.

In fact, the presence of a small break concealed inside the insulation can play spoilsport with the communication between the sensor and the ABS module leading to intermittent warning lights appearing while driving. The most important factor is to detect the problem and initiate the necessary fixes so that proper sensor operation in your vehicle can be restored.

Inspect the Wheel Bearing and Integrated Encoder Ring

There are many European cars that have integrated the magnetic encoder ring directly into the sealed wheel bearing assembly. Now, issues with the functioning of the wheel bearing can appear similar to that of a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor in your vehicle.

Often it is observed that when the wheel speed bearing begins to wear out, then the excessive internal play abruptly changes the distance between the encoder ring and the sensor, which leads to inaccurate wheel speed readings. The certified mechanics are going to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for presence of corrosion, cracks, missing magnetic sections, contamination, and physical damages.

At times, it is observed that metal debris generated by a malfunctioning wheel speed bearing affects the functioning of the sensor’s magnetic field, which leads to generation of false ABS fault codes. The wheel speed sensor along with the wheel bearing and integrated encoder ring needs to be replaced entirely.

Keep a Tab on Sensor Voltage Supply and Signal Output

In high-end European cars, the wheel speed sensors are dependent on electrical power provided by the ABS control module for their efficient functioning. Now, when diagnosing the sensor, you must measure the voltage supplied to the sensor, and the digital signal it returns while the wheel rotates.

The professional technicians at automotive repair shops are going to use a digital multimeter, or an automotive oscilloscope to verify the voltage output and input of the sensor. If there are any abnormalities detected, then the sensor is going to be replaced immediately.

Finally

These are some of the signs you should look for when trying to detect issues with the functioning of the wheel speed sensor in your vehicle. At times, drivers tend to ignore the initial signs associated with the problem, however, the moment you come across anything unusual you must seek the assistance of a professional technician quickly without delay.