How to Replace the Wheel Speed Sensor in a Ford F-Series

To prevent tires from locking up and the vehicle from skidding in emergency situations, your 2001 to 2003 Ford F-150 has an anti-lock brake system (ABS). In order for this system to function properly, the speed sensors attached to each wheel must transmit to the ABS computer regarding the rate of tire rotation. If your ABS fails to function properly, then it's likely that you need to replace a speed sensor.

Instructions

1

Park your Ford F-150 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

Disconnect the speed sensor electrical connection.

4

Separate the front wheel speed sensor cable from the brake hose clips on two-wheel drive vehicles. On four-wheel drive vehicles, remove the front disc brake rotor shield for front wheel speed sensors.

5

Unscrew the sensor mounting bolt and remove the speed sensor from the vehicle.

6

Reverse the removal process to install the new speed sensor.

7

Torque the front wheel speed sensor mounting bolt to nine foot pounds (12 Nm) on two-wheel drive vehicles and 79 inch pounds (nine Nm) on four-wheel drive vehicles. For rear wheel speed sensors, torque the mounting bolt to 20 foot pounds (27 Nm).

8

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.