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Jerry Data & Research
Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your wheel speed sensor replacement? Use Jerry’s GarageGuard to get fair cost estimate for your wheel speed sensor replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor
What's on this page?
- How much does it cost to replace a wheel speed sensor?
- Where can I get my wheel speed sensor replaced?
- How will a mechanic replace my wheel speed sensor?
- What happens if I don’t replace my wheel speed sensor?
- What is a wheel speed sensor?
- Can I replace a wheel speed sensor myself?
- FAQs
- Meet Our Experts
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How much does it cost to replace a wheel speed sensor?
You can expect an average cost of $215-$260+ for a battery cable replacement, comprising of about $150-$180 for parts and $60-$100 for mechanic labor. Prices can vary depending on factors like your mechanic and your vehicle.
How long does it take to replace a wheel speed sensor? It generally takes about 1 hour for a certified mechanic to complete the job. First, they’ll inspect the wheel speed sensors to decide if they need to be replaced. If they can’t tell, they’ll check the whole brake system and ABS control module.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for my wheel speed sensor replacement and how much do those parts cost?
Check your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic to learn about your car’s ABS configuration. Most vehicles have one speed sensor on each wheel, but some cars might use two- to three-channel wheel sensors that need to be installed according to a different configuration.
Here are the main parts you’ll need (in addition to automotive tools):
- Wheel speed sensor: Each sensor costs an average of $150 to $184. The exact price depends on the quality of the sensor you buy, as well as whether or not the part is OEM or aftermarket. Remember, you don’t have to replace all four wheel sensors at the same time unless all of them are failing.
Keep in mind: Now is a good time to check your car’s brakes. Replace worn brake pads while you’ve got them off of your vehicle.
We recommend purchasing parts at local auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts, as well as online retailers like Amazon and RockAuto. We also recommend reputable brands such as ACDelco, Standard Motor Products, and Beck Arnley for wheel speed sensor components, ensuring accurate vehicle speed and reliable ABS functionality. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.
Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
The choice is up to you—OEM parts are more expensive, but the quality is guaranteed, so you might not have to replace the sensors as often. Be prepared to pay more for OEM parts.
Where can I buy parts for my wheel speed sensor replacement?
You can easily find sensor replacements online on Amazon and RockAuto, and at your local auto parts store like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA Auto Parts.
Where can I get my wheel speed sensor replaced?
If you don’t have a dealership service center or mechanic you rely on, let Jerry's
GarageGuard™
help! Our free app quickly compares fair price estimates from over 2,500 vetted auto repair shops in the US. Here’s how it works. Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares each shop’s real hourly rate, so you can see what’s included in service costs, diagnostic fees, etc. Plus, it shows you real reviews from customers. All you have to do is select the best service center for you!
Take a look at some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
142 Reviews
Havoline Xpress Lube - #1324
11988 W. Jewell Avenue, Lakewood, CO
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$137138 Reviews
TNT Automotive Repair
6733 Baker Blvd C, Richland Hills, TX
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$125152 Reviews
Velasquez Auto Care - Morgan
5811 W Capitol Dr, Milwaukee, WI
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$35183 Reviews
AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care - White Plains
281 Tarrytown Rd, White Plains, NY
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$100How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic replace my wheel speed sensor?
A certified mechanic will have no trouble diagnosing and replacing your wheel speed sensors. Here are the steps they’ll take:
- Jack up the vehicle
- Scan the ABS for sensor failure and error codes
- Inspect the brake system
- Inspect the actual sensors
- Remove the faulty wheel speed sensor
- Replace the sensor
- Scan the ABS to ensure it’s working correctly
What happens if I don’t replace my wheel speed sensor?
The wheel speed sensor might not seem like a critical car component, but it’s a vital part of your car’s safety system. Driving with a bad wheel speed sensor can:
- Prevent ABS and TCS from working correctly
- Increase your risk for collision
What is a wheel speed sensor?
In modern vehicles (cars made since 2004), every wheel (including the front wheels and rear wheels) has a small sensor mounted in the wheel hub near the brake calipers. The sensor, also called an ABS wheel speed sensor, tracks how fast the wheel’s axle turns and transmits this information to the ABS and TCS systems.
If ACS or TCS senses dangerous driving conditions, they’ll activate and reduce power to your brakes so you don’t spin out or slide.
When should I replace a wheel speed sensor on my car?
Here are the most common signs of a bad wheel sensor:
- The anti-lock brake system ABS warning light comes on: This light may come on when you’re not driving in slippery conditions. It’s a good idea to get the wheel speed sensors checked if this happens.
- ABS does not work properly: If the wheel speed sensors aren’t communicating with ABS, you’ll notice that the system doesn’t work when you’re driving in icy conditions, or it will work when you don’t need it to.
- The traction control (TCS) light is on: If the TCS light illuminates and doesn’t say “OFF” underneath, it means that the wheel speed sensor is telling TCS that a wheel is losing its grip. The system might apply brakes to that wheel because it believes it’s slipping.
- The check engine light comes on: This is more common in older cars. You might also notice that the speedometer isn’t accurate.
How often should a wheel speed sensor be replaced?
Most wheel speed sensors last 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that they’ll last that long! The speed sensors sit close to the road, where they’re exposed to grit, debris, salt, and brake dust. This can accumulate around the sensor, causing it to malfunction.
Can I replace a wheel speed sensor myself?
While you might be trying to save on repair costs, it’s best to leave the replacement to the professionals because you’ll be working closely with the car’s brake system. You might even have to remove the brake pads and rotors. A mechanic will have specialized parts and tools to get the job done.
FAQs
Can I still drive with a bad wheel speed sensor?
If you know that a wheel speed sensor isn’t working properly, you can still drive, but you can’t rely on ABS or TCS to function correctly. For your safety, get it repaired as soon as possible.
Are wheel speed sensors easy to replace?
They’re not difficult for trained mechanics to replace, but their intricate components make it challenging for the average person to replace.
What causes a wheel sensor to go out?
Wheel speed sensors do wear out over time. They can also be disconnected or knocked out of place by debris. Faulty wiring and corroded electrical connections can also cause speed sensor failures.
What is the difference between the ABS and TCS systems?
ABS is the system that stops your wheel from spinning if you’re trying to break on slick or icy conditions, while the traction control system (TCS) prevents your wheels from spinning as you’re driving and gaining speed.
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.
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