VW Caddy ABS Warning: Speed Sensor Issues Traced

I had a similar issue with my 2012 VW Golf with the same ABS and traction problems. With moderate experience working on cars, I initially thought it was just a speed sensor issue like you mentioned. After taking it to a workshop, their diagnostic revealed the ECM and ABS control unit were malfunctioning. The symptoms matched exactly what youre describing, constant ABS warning light and inconsistent traction control during braking. The repair involved: Complete system diagnostic, Testing all speed sensor inputs, Replacing the defective control unit, Recalibrating the new unit, Testing the ABS functionality Total repair cost was 1000€, but it completely resolved the traction issues and warning lights. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Current odometer reading, Whether the transmission shows any related symptoms, If the issue started suddenly or developed gradually, Results of your diagnostic scan codes This would help determine if your case is similar to what I experienced with my Golf or if theres potentially a different underlying cause.

Just had my service done 2 weeks ago at 26803km and everything else was running fine until this ABS issue started. The diagnostic scan showed fault code indicating the front right wheel speed sensor, but what concerns me is that the ABS malfunction happened quite suddenly without any warning signs. No transmission issues noticed so far. Based on your experience with the control unit replacement, would that also explain the sudden onset in my case? The traction problems are quite severe during braking, which matches what you described.

Thanks for those additional details about your Caddy. My Golf had a similar sudden ABS malfunction, but after we replaced the control unit, we discovered the root cause was actually more complex. While your diagnostic points to the front right wheel speed sensor, my experience suggests checking both the sensor and its wiring harness first. In my case, what appeared as a control unit issue was actually damaged wiring causing signal interference to the ABS system. The sudden onset without warning signs matches exactly what happened with my vehicle. The transmission showing no issues is also consistent with my experience, the ABS malfunction remained isolated from other systems. A few key points from my repair experience: The front wheel speed sensor cost 120€, The wiring harness inspection was crucial, Dashboard warning cleared immediately after repair, Total repair time was about 3 hours Before proceeding with major component replacement, I would strongly recommend having the wiring thoroughly checked. This could save you from unnecessarily replacing the entire ABS control unit like I initially did. Given the low mileage on your Caddy and the recent service, a sudden sensor or wiring issue seems more likely than a complete control unit failure.

Thanks for the input. Just wanted to follow up and share what I found with my Caddy ABS issue. Had the diagnostic done again and they found a break in the wiring harness leading to the speed sensor, exactly as suggested. The sudden onset makes total sense now since the wire finally gave out completely. The repair ended up being much simpler and cheaper than a full control unit replacement. Total cost was 180€ including labor to replace the wiring harness and speed sensor. The speedometer and ABS are now working perfectly, and the traction control is back to normal during braking. Really glad I had the wiring checked first before jumping to bigger repairs. The input from you guys about checking the complete circuit and not just the sensor itself definitely saved me from unnecessary work. The ECM is reading all inputs correctly now and no more warning lights on the dashboard.