Volvo V60 II ABS Light On? Don't Ignore That Wheel Speed Sensor

Why Your V60 II ABS Light Stays On

If your ABS warning light is on continuously, your Volvo's ABS module has detected a fault in the anti-lock braking system. On the V60 II (2018 and newer), the most common cause is a wheel speed sensor that has failed, become dirty, or has a damaged connector. The ABS module compares signals from all four wheel speed sensors. If one signal drops out or becomes erratic, it sets a code and lights the dashboard. Other likely culprits include a cracked or rusty reluctor ring (tone ring), chafed wiring near the wheel arch, water intrusion in a connector, or — less often — a failing ABS module or low battery voltage.

What to Check First

• Scan for ABS codes: Use a scanner that can read Volvo-specific ABS codes. This will tell you which wheel is affected (e.g., left front, right rear) and save hours of guessing.
• Inspect the wheel speed sensor: Remove the wheel and check the sensor at that corner. Look for physical damage, metal debris stuck to the tip, or a loose mounting bolt. A sensor that reads open circuit or shows no AC voltage when spinning the wheel is bad.
• Check the tone ring/reluctor: A cracked, corroded, or missing teeth on the tone ring will cause the same symptom. This is common on cars driven in salt-belt areas.
• Wiring and connectors: Follow the sensor harness for breaks, chafing, or green corrosion inside the connector. Wiggle-test the harness while watching live wheel speed data.

Is It Safe to Keep Driving?

If the ABS light is on steady and the red brake warning light is not on, you can usually drive carefully to a repair shop. Just remember that ABS will not help you in a panic stop, and traction/stability control (DSTC) may also be disabled. If the brake pedal feels soft or pulsates strangely, the car pulls to one side, or the brake warning light comes on too, stop driving and have the vehicle towed. A wheel speed sensor fault is often a straightforward, affordable fix — and it restores one of your most important safety systems.

This material is AI-generated and for informational purposes only — it does not replace an in-person diagnosis by a qualified mechanic.