Know anything about antilock brakes? Advice needed.

[pkschul]

The "ABS" and "ETS OFF" lights came on in my 98 cavalier a few days ago. I'm guessing that since both the antilock brakes and the electronic traction control went out at the same time then it's probably a bad wheel speed sensor. Is my logic sound? I'm not sure how to determine which one is bad. I'm not even sure if there are sensors for the rear wheels? What can I do on my own? Do parts stores even sell these sensors? Any and all input appreciated.
Yes, I already checked the fuses. If there are any fusable links associated with the ABS, I don't know.
TIA

 

[zeus87gn]

Ahh yes, one of the fruits of owning another quality GM product.

Sounds like you may be on to something with your logic. I would guess one of the front wheels. Without a manual to decipher it, you may end up taking it to a shop for electronic diagnostics. Also, if your sensors are like the ones in my 99 Montana, you will end up changing the front bearing to get the new sensor...they are integral to one another. Quite easy to replace, but expensive.

With I could be of more help.

 

[Black Car]

Check your brake fluid reservoir to see if it is low. As your brakes wear down the fluid level goes down.
Do you have ETS? My 99 cavalier doesn't. Doesn't matter, if the brake alarm lights up then so does the ETS light. This is what I have found out on my 99 cavalier.

Could be the air temp sensor (for ice detection), if it senses temp where ice could be present, then in my 99 it will turn off the ABS & ETC and turn on their alarm lights.

Could be the individual wheel speed sensor too.

Gary

 

[441120]

Ahh yes, one of the fruits of owning another quality GM product.
.

Sad but true :frown: