Symptoms
ABS light stays on, traction control disabled.
Likely cause
Dirty or failed wheel speed sensor, damaged wiring or a faulty ABS modulator.
Suggested fixes
Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.
- 1
Clean and refit the wheel sensor
Remove the sensor, clean it and push it fully home.
- Difficulty:
- Easy DIY
- Cost:
- £ (Under about £50 in parts)
- 2
Replace the wheel sensor
Use a diagnostic tool to identify the faulty sensor.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate DIY
- Cost:
- £ (Under about £50 in parts)
This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.
Related faults
- BrakesHigh severity
Corroded brake pipes (MOT failure)
MOT advisory or failure for corroded brake pipes.
Series I · Series II / IIA · Series III · 90 / 110 / 127 · Defender2 fixes - BrakesHigh severity
Hard brake pedal (servo)
Pedal hard with poor stopping power, hissing when braking.
Series II / IIA · Series III · 90 / 110 / 127 · Defender2 fixes - BrakesHigh severity
Ineffective handbrake contaminated with oil
Handbrake will not hold the vehicle on a slope, oil visible on the transmission drum, MOT failure.
90 / 110 / 127 · Defender2 fixes