ABS light on: do the brakes still work?
Your ordinary brakes will usually still work, but you may lose ABS assistance under hard braking. Drive carefully, especially in wet or slippery conditions, and have it inspected soon.
Can you keep driving?
Yes, but leave more space and brake more gently.
What the warning actually means
The symbol is the letters ABS inside a circle. It indicates a fault in the anti-lock braking system specifically, not in the base braking system itself.
Common causes
- A faulty wheel speed sensor, often after dirt or damage
- A fault in the ABS pump or control unit
- Low voltage or a poor connection
What to do now
- Keep driving, but expect the wheels to be able to lock under hard braking.
- Leave more space, particularly in the wet and on slippery surfaces.
- Book an inspection.
What people often get wrong
That the brakes are out of action. The base brakes normally work as before. What you lose is the help against locking up, and you only notice it when braking hard.
When the car must go to a workshop
If the ABS light and the red brake warning are on at the same time, treat it as urgent and do not drive on.
Read next
- Brake warning light: check this first
- Traction control light: flickering, or staying on?
- Tire pressure light: a puncture, or just the cold?
This page is general information and does not replace a professional assessment. Symbols, codes and behaviour vary between makes. Always check the handbook for your own car.
Other guides that fit
Know Your Car. Save on Repairs.
Practical guides that help drivers diagnose problems, avoid costly repairs, and maintain their vehicles with confidence.
Get the guide that fits this exact problem, with the full explanation in one PDF.
$16.00 See the guide →Short checklists you can print and keep in the car, ready in seconds.
Get them free →