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emmarichter1

Faulty Speed Sensor Triggers ABS & Traction Malfunctions

Need help! Speed sensor issues affecting ABS and traction Having trouble with my 2018 Chevy Cavalier (gas engine, 21869 KM). The dashboard is acting up with the ABS light constantly on. Car's losing traction control and the ABS doesn't seem to work properly. The speedometer readings appear inconsistent, making me think it's a speed sensor fault. Had some questionable work done at my last mechanic visit, so I'm hesitant to go back. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms? Would like to hear about repair experiences and what it took to fix, hoping to be better prepared before visiting another shop. Any input on expected repair costs would be great too.

4 comment(s)

martinwerner3

I experienced nearly identical issues on my 2015 Chevy Cruze. The diagnostic showed an Affected Control Unit fault tied to a failing speed sensor. The speedometer readings were jumping erratically, and the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree, ABS, traction control, everything. The transmission speed sensor was the culprit, which was affecting multiple systems since modern cars use these sensors for various functions. It wasn't just about speed readings, the bad sensor was confusing the whole system. The repair involved: Full diagnostic scan, Replacing the faulty speed sensor, Recalibrating the ABS module, Testing all affected systems It was a serious issue that needed immediate attention since it affected core safety systems. Left unfixed, it could've led to transmission problems or complete ABS failure. The repair took about 4 hours total. Given your symptoms match mine exactly, I'd recommend getting it checked soon. The issue won't resolve itself and will likely get worse.

emmarichter1 (Author)

Had the same problem with mine, really nerve-wracking when the ABS and traction control lights started flashing! The ECM was getting bad signals from a faulty speed sensor which was messing with everything from the odometer to basic safety systems. Got it fixed about 3 months ago, but honestly curious how yours turned out? Would be good to know what you paid and if you've had any issues pop up since the repair. The diagnostic on mine picked up multiple codes related to the transmission speed sensor, but once that was replaced everything went back to normal. Did they end up replacing your speed sensor too or was it something else entirely?

martinwerner3

Good news, got everything sorted out with my Chevy Cruze! Since seeing the mechanic, the speed signal malfunction was completely fixed. The diagnostic confirmed it was indeed the affected control unit that was defective, which was causing all those crazy speedometer readings and safety system glitches. The total repair came to 1000 € for the control unit replacement and reprogramming. It was pricey, but worth every cent since all systems are now working perfectly. The ABS, traction control, and speedometer are all back to normal, no more dashboard light show! Haven't had a single issue since the fix three months ago. The input from the speed sensor is now consistent, and the odometer readings are accurate. It's a relief to have those safety systems functioning properly again. Sometimes these electronic gremlins can be tricky to diagnose, but in this case, replacing the control unit was definitely the right call.

emmarichter1 (Author)

Thanks everyone for the input! Just wanted to close the loop on what happened with my car. Took it to a different mechanic who ran a proper diagnostic scan and confirmed it was definitely the speed sensor causing all those dashboard warnings. They found the sensor was completely shot, apparently dirt and debris had damaged it over time. The repair cost around €400 including parts and labor. Mechanic had it done in about 3 hours. Really straightforward fix once they knew what they were dealing with. They replaced the speed sensor, cleared all the error codes, and tested everything thoroughly. The speedometer is now rock steady, ABS works perfectly, and all those annoying warning lights are gone. Such a relief to have it sorted! No issues at all in the past few weeks since the repair. Really glad I didn't put it off any longer, the transmission could have been damaged if I'd kept driving it with a bad sensor. Just shows how one small part can affect so many systems in modern cars. Thanks again for helping me understand what I was dealing with before heading to the shop!

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