How many ohms should a wheel speed sensor read?
The typical reading for a passive wheel speed sensor is between 1,000 and 2,500 ohms. This is a normal range for all passive sensors. The specification for active sensors is between 1,000 and 2,500 ohms.
Can you test wheel sensors?
Most vehicles today have anti-lock brakes. The wheel speed sensor works in conjunction with the anti-lock brake system by interpreting the rotational speed of the tire through a magnetic signal. Since the signal sends an electronic pulse, you can test the wheel speed sensor with a multimeter.
How many ohms does a wheel speed sensor read?
If you do measure an active sensor with a meter, it will produce a reading around 3.5 millions ohms. If the leads are reversed, you will get an infinite reading indicating an open circuit. The second reading would indicate a dead passive WSS or a normal active WSS. This makes the results dubious.
What happens when a sensor reads too much resistance?
If the sensor circuit has too much resistance, reads open or is shorted (little or no resistance), measure the resistance across the sensor itself. If the sensor itself reads within specs, the problem is in the wiring or connectors.
How can I check the resistance of my WSS sensor?
Refer to a shop manual for the sensor’s exact voltage specifications. A low voltage reading or no reading calls for a direct measurement of the resistance in the WSS circuit (with the key off). This should be done through the breakout box to check the entire circuit.
Where is the sensor located on a wheel?
This is a typical reading from a wheel sensor. Configuration of the sensor mounting is different for each manufacturer but follow the same operation. In the image below a stator ring or as it is sometimes called a reluctor can be located inside the bearing hub, rear axle housing, or on the CV joint itself.
How much resistance should a wheel speed sensor have?
A good wheel speed sensor and circuit will typically have a resistance of 800 to 1400 ohms (specs vary, so refer to a manual for the exact numbers). If the sensor circuit has too much resistance, reads open or is shorted (little or no resistance), measure the resistance across the sensor itself.
Refer to a shop manual for the sensor’s exact voltage specifications. A low voltage reading or no reading calls for a direct measurement of the resistance in the WSS circuit (with the key off). This should be done through the breakout box to check the entire circuit.
If the sensor circuit has too much resistance, reads open or is shorted (little or no resistance), measure the resistance across the sensor itself. If the sensor itself reads within specs, the problem is in the wiring or connectors.
How does the voltage in a wheel sensor vary?
This voltage will vary according to the speed in which the hub or wheel is spun. As the hub begins to spin the voltage will rise and then decrease as it stops. Slowly spin the hub or axle which will produce the voltage, if no readings can be found the sensor has failed and replacement is required. This is a typical reading from a wheel sensor.