faulty wheel speed sensor
A faulty wheel speed sensor is a critical component of a vehicle's safety and performance monitoring system that measures the rotational speed of each wheel. When functioning incorrectly, this sensor can disrupt various vehicle systems, including the anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, and stability control. The sensor operates using electromagnetic principles, consisting of a toothed ring and magnetic core that generates electrical pulses corresponding to wheel rotation. These pulses are translated into speed data by the vehicle's computer system. When faulty, the sensor may provide inaccurate readings or no readings at all, potentially compromising vehicle safety features. Common causes of sensor failure include physical damage, electrical interference, or contamination from road debris. Modern vehicles typically employ active sensors that provide more precise measurements and better resistance to environmental factors compared to older passive sensors. Understanding these sensors is crucial for vehicle maintenance and safety, as they play a vital role in preventing wheel lock-up during heavy braking and maintaining vehicle stability in challenging driving conditions. The integration of wheel speed sensors with advanced driver assistance systems makes them increasingly important in modern automotive technology, particularly in emerging autonomous driving applications.