GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

As the wheel spins, the wheel speed sensor produces an AC signal. The electronic brake control module (EBCM) uses the frequency of the AC signal to calculate the wheel speed.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition switch is in the RUN position.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The corresponding wheel speed sensor feedback voltage is detected as being high (above 3.33 volts) for 100 milliseconds or low (below 0.039 volts) for 500 milliseconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The ABS indicator lamp turns on.
    • The ABS is disabled for as long as the malfunction is present.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • Repair the condition(s) responsible for setting the DTC.
    • Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC.

Diagnostic Aids

Thoroughly inspect any connection or circuitry that is suspected of causing an intermittent malfunction. Inspect for the following conditions:

    • Backed out terminals
    • Improper mating
    • Broken locks
    • Corrosion
    • Improperly formed or damaged terminals
    • Poor terminal-to-wiring connections
    • Physically damaged wiring
    • Wiring broken inside the insulation

If the customer's concern is that the ABS indicator lamp is on only during humid conditions such as rain, snow or vehicle wash, thoroughly inspect all wheel speed sensor circuits for signs of water intrusion. Use the following procedure:

  1. Spray the suspected area with a 5% salt water solution (two teaspoons of salt to 12 oz. of water).
  2. Drive the vehicle above 24 km/h (15 mph) for at least 30 seconds.

If the DTC returns, replace the suspected harness.

When inspecting a wheel speed sensor, inspect the sensor terminals and the harness connector for corrosion. If evidence of corrosion exists, then replace the wheel speed sensor. Refer to Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement .

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

Schematic References: Antilock Brake System Schematics

1

Did you perform the ABS Diagnostic System Check?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check

2

  1. Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC(s).
  2. Operate the vehicle at a speed greater than the specified value.

Does the DTC set?

8 km/h (5 mph)

Go to Step 3

Go to Diagnostic Aids

3

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor connector.
  3. Use a DMM in order to measure the resistance of the wheel speed sensor.

Does the resistance measure within the specified range?

1575-3850ohms

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 8

4

  1. Spin the wheel by hand as fast as possible.
  2. Use a DMM in order to measure the AC voltage generated by the wheel speed sensor as the wheel spins.

Does the AC voltage measure greater than the specified value?

50 mV

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 8

5

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the wheel speed sensor. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 6

6

Test the wheel speed sensor circuits for the following conditions:

    • An open
    • A short to ground
    • A short to voltage
    • Shorted together

Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 7

7

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector for the EBCM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 9

8

Replace the wheel speed sensor. Refer to Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

9

Important: Perform the tire size calibration in Scan Tool Diagnostics.

Replace the EBCM. Refer to Electronic Brake Control Module Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

10

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC set?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK