GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System 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 Diagnostic Fault

    • The ignition is ON.
    • Vehicle speed is greater than 26 km/h (16 mph).

Conditions for Setting the Diagnostic Fault

    • Open WSS wiring.
    • Shorted WSS or WSS Wiring.
    • Wheel speed signal not present or does not conform to design criteria.

Action Taken When the Diagnostic Fault Sets

    • The Bendix Remote Diagnostic Unit (RDU), illuminates the STEERAXLE, LFT, and SEN LEDs.
    • The ABS indicator lamp turns ON.
    • The ABS operates using the input from the other front WSS.

Conditions for Clearing the Diagnostic Fault

    • Repair the condition responsible for illuminating the status lamps.
    • Perform the Status Lamp Resetting procedure. Refer to Status Lamp Resetting.

Diagnostic Aids

Important:  Upon any electronic brake control module (EBCM), or wheel speed sensor (WSS) replacement perform the Bendix RDU magnet reset procedure. Refer to Status Lamp Resetting.

    • Test the suspect WSS circuits for being shorted together.
    • Inspect the wheel bearings for looseness or excessive wear and verify that the wheel bearing play is within specifications. Refer to Wheel Bearing Adjustment or Front Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement, or Wheel Bearing Wear - Rear Drive Axle, or Rear Axle Hub, Bearing, Cup, and/or Seal Replacement.
    • Inspect the WSS in order to ensure the sensor is installed and retained properly for proper air gap. Refer to Front Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement or Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement.

If the customer concern is that the ABS indicator is ON only during humid conditions such as rain, snow or vehicle wash, thoroughly inspect the WSS circuits for signs of water intrusion. Use the following procedure in order to help isolate the problem area:

  1. Spray the suspected area with a 5 percent salt water solution; 10 grams (2 teaspoons) of salt to 200 ml (12 oz) of water.
  2. Operate the vehicle at a speed greater than 19 km/h (12 mph) for at least 30 seconds.

Repair or replace the suspect harness if the diagnostic fault sets.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Air Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Air ABS Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Operate the vehicle at a speed greater than 26km/h (16mph).
  2. Observe the Bendix Remote Diagnostic Unit (RDU). The LEDs on the RDU should indicate a current wheel speed sensor (WSS) fault.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the wheel speed sensor (WSS).
  2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 1800 - 2200 ohm between the low reference circuit terminal B and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM).
  4. Ignition ON, verify the DMM WSS signal circuit A/C voltage across the WSS, while spinning the wheel as fast as possible. The WSS DMM A/C voltage should measure greater than 800 mV.
  5. If less than the specified value, test the signal circuit terminal A for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
  6. Install a 3 A fused jumper between the WSS signal circuit terminal A and the low reference circuit terminal B. Verify the DMM WSS A/C voltage is less than 800 mV. While turning the wheel as fast as you can.
  7. If greater than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
  8. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the WSS.

Component Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the WSS.
  2. Test for 1800-2200 ohms between the WSS signal terminal A and the low reference circuit terminal B.
  3. If not within the specified range, replace the WSS.
  4. Test for infinite resistance between each terminal and the sensor housing/case.
  5. If less than the specified value, replace the WSS.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
    •  Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming.
    •  Front Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement
    •  Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement