If you’re starting to see ABS or traction control lights on your dashboard, it could either be due to a bad wheel speed sensor or a faulty ESC/ABS module.
Some ESC/ABS modules look identical to each other. The one in this post comes from a 2011 KIA Sorento. I’ve seen similar modules installed in Toyotas as well.
This Electronic Stability Control module has the ABS module built into it.
It’s essentially 2 modules in 1.
So if you have a similar type of unit, this post might help.
No ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) Symptoms
Without ABS working properly, your tires wont be able to assist you whenever you’re doing emergency brakes.
Which means tires may lock up during braking and cause the vehicle to slide. This can be most dangerous during winter when the roads are filled with snow and ice.
A working ABS will assist with the vehicle to prevent locking of brakes and engage more frequent braking pulses to stop the vehicle sooner.
No Traction Control Symptoms
Similar to having no ABS, without traction control your vehicle may slide during turning. A safety feature so that the vehicle doesn’t swing on slippery roads like ice and snow.
Watch the videos below to determine whether you have a bad wheel speed sensor or a faulty ESC/ABS module.
A good time to swap out ESC modules
If you’ve got an older vehicle over 300,000km (186,400 miles), there may be a chance that your ESC/ABS module will start to fail. In the case here that’s what happened to me.
I found that the ESC/ABS module for my 2011 Kia Sorento had two terminal pins that were toast. You can view that in the diagnosis video here:
After replacing the old ESC/ABS module for a newer one, I’ve noticed an increase in fuel economy by 50%. I also downshifted 30 km/hr sooner (19 mi/hr). And of course replacing and ESC module means bleeding brakes, which will give you better braking on the road.
Replacing the faulty ESC module allowed me to get my left rear speed sensor back online. Which means I now have ABS function with all wheels operational again. This now allows me better braking with traction control now enabled.
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Watch how to replace and rewire an ESC module for 2011 KIA Sorento:
How to Find a Repair Shop Manual
If you need a repair manual specifically made for your vehicle, go here to learn more. I’ll also show you a quick tutorial on how to use them online.
October 08, 2021