by
Tanmay Ahuja
| Aug 25, 2025
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light is a key safety indicator on your car’s dashboard. When it turns on, it means your ABS, which prevents your wheels from locking during sudden or hard braking, may not be functioning properly. While your regular brakes will still work, the loss of ABS can increase the risk of skidding, especially on slippery or uneven roads.
Let’s learn everything about the ABS sign on cars, why it turns on and what to do next.
What are anti brake system light in car?
The anti lock brake system light helps prevent your car wheels from locking up when you brake hard and suddenly. If your wheels lock, you could lose control of your vehicle. When you hit the brakes suddenly, the system automatically applies and releases brake pressure many times per second, helping you steer around obstacles without skidding.
What does the anti brake system light look like?
The anti lock brake system warning light appears as the letters "ABS" or displays a circle with the letters inside, often with brackets around it. Some cars show it in yellow or amber colour, while others display it in red. You'll find this light on your instrument cluster, usually near the speedometer or fuel gauge.
Why is my anti brake system light on?
The most common causes that trigger the anti lock light on cars include faulty wheel speed sensors, which fail or get dirty and disrupt speed data to the ABS controller. Damaged or corroded sensor wiring can also break communication. Low brake fluid levels reduce system pressure and trigger the light. Worn brake pads or rotors affect braking response, causing sudden ABS activation.
Electrical issues like blown fuses or a malfunctioning ABS module can also illuminate the light. Lastly, faults in the hydraulic pump or valve, which regulate brake pressure, may cause the warning to appear.
Meanwhile, if the anti lock brake system warning light persistently stays on, it probably means your car's braking safety is not at its best.
What should you do when the anti brake system light comes on?
Now that you know why the ABS light on car lights up, first try turning off and restarting the engine, as minor glitches can reset the system. Next, check the brake fluid level under the bonnet and top it up with the recommended DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid; persistent drops indicate a leak that needs urgent repair.
Inspect visible sensor wires near the wheels for damage or disconnection if you’re able. Finally, visit a workshop where a professional can use a scan tool to diagnose the issue and recommend regular ABS maintenance to avoid future problems.
How to reset an anti brake system light?
You can try resetting the ABS light yourself, but this will only work if the underlying problem is already fixed. Here are a few steps you can try:
Option 1: Rest the battery manually
Turn off the engine, remove the key and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wait for 10-15 minutes to allow the car’s system memory to clear. Then reconnect the battery, restart the vehicle and check if the ABS light has turned off.
Option 2: Use an OBD-II or ABS scanner
Connect the scanner to your car’s OBD-II port, switch on the ignition (without starting the engine) and use the tool to read and clear error codes. If the issue is resolved, the ABS light will turn off. Works best with ABS-specific scanners (not all basic OBD-II readers access ABS codes).
Option 3: Pump the brake pedal
In some cars, you can reset the system by pressing the brake pedal three to four times with the engine off (ignition on). When you do this, you are manually doing what the ABS does automatically. This mainly works in a few car models (consult your owner's manual or mechanic).
Conclusion
Ignoring the anti brake system light can lead to more expensive repairs over time. It can put you and others at risk, especially when driving through congested traffic or during monsoon.
While addressing the issue promptly is crucial, it’s equally important to ensure you're financially protected in case of an accident caused by brake failure.
This is where having the right car insurance policy becomes essential. A comprehensive plan covers repair costs resulting from accidents or damages, keeping you financially secure during emergencies.
FAQs
What happens if I ignore the ABS light?
Your vehicle may not handle emergency braking well, and you will be more likely to skid or lose control during sharp turns or sudden stops.
Can I drive with the ABS light on?
Yes, but it's not recommended. While your regular brakes will still work, the anti-lock feature won’t. This can be dangerous in emergencies or on wet and slippery roads.
Will an ignored ABS light on the car affect my car insurance claim?
If an accident happens due to brake failure, and your ABS warning light was active at the time, some insurers may decline your claim if they discover you ignored it during their investigation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.