1. Wheel Speed Sensor Issue: Replacing brake pads should not directly affect the ABS system. However, during the brake pad replacement process, there's a possibility that one of the wheel speed sensors might have been jostled or damaged, leading to an ABS warning.
2. Low Brake Fluid Level: Adding brake fluid to top off the reservoir is a normal part of brake pad replacement. If not properly filled or an air pocket is present in the brake system's lines, it can trigger the ABS warning light.
3. Faulty ABS Module: The ABS control module could have a malfunction that was unrelated to the brake pad replacement, causing the warning light to come on.
To determine the precise reason for the ABS warning light, you should have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). An OBD-II scanner can retrieve the codes that have triggered the ABS light, helping identify the root cause and allowing you or your mechanic to address it appropriately.