Here's a breakdown of the potential causes and what you should do:
* Wheel Speed Sensor Issues: These sensors monitor the speed of each wheel. A faulty sensor, a damaged wire to the sensor, or even dirt/debris on the sensor can trigger the ABS light. This is a very common cause.
* ABS Control Module Problem: The module is the "brain" of the ABS system. A malfunctioning module can cause the light to illuminate. This is usually a more expensive repair.
* Low Brake Fluid: While unlikely to directly cause the ABS light, low brake fluid can indicate a leak in the braking system, which could indirectly affect the ABS sensors and trigger the light. Check your brake fluid level.
* Faulty ABS Pump Motor: The pump is part of the ABS system and its failure can trigger the light.
* Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring in the ABS system can cause intermittent or constant problems.
What you should do:
1. Check Brake Fluid: Top up the brake fluid if low. If it's consistently low, you likely have a leak and need immediate professional attention.
2. Have it Diagnosed: The best course of action is to take your Aztek to a mechanic or an auto parts store that offers OBD-II diagnostics. They can use a scanner to read the ABS trouble codes. The codes will pinpoint the specific problem, saving you time and money on guesswork.
3. Don't Ignore It: Driving with the ABS light on means you're losing a crucial safety feature. While you can still brake, the lack of ABS can make braking in emergency situations significantly more difficult.
Without a diagnostic scan, it's impossible to pinpoint the exact cause. Getting the codes read is the crucial first step in fixing the problem.
