How to Replace the Wheel Speed Sensor in a Ford Explorer

If you sense that the anti-lock brake system in your 2002 to 2005 Ford Explorer fails to function properly, check the wheel speed sensors. These devices attach to each of the wheels on your vehicle, measure the speed of the wheel and send a signal to the ABS. Failure to transmit that signal means the ABS won't know when a wheel locks up and will neglect to counteract that lockage. Replacement of a front wheel speed sensor may be necessary.

Instructions

1

Park your Ford Explorer on a level surface, activate the emergency brake and place blocks behind the back tires for safety. Disconnect the negative battery cable with a terminal puller.

2

Raise the vehicle on the side of the wheel speed sensor's location. Remove the wheel and tire assemblies.

3

Detach the front brake disc and disconnect the speed sensor electrical connector.

4

Remove the three speed sensor harness retainers and the two harness pin-type retainers.

5

Unscrew the speed sensor mounting bolt. Remove the sensor and sensor harness from the vehicle.

6

Reverse the removal process to install the new wheel speed sensor. Torque the mounting bolt to 115 inch pounds (17 Nm).

7

Lower the vehicle safely and reconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to your owner's manual to perform an ABS system check to confirm that you installed the sensor properly.