How to Replace the Wheel Speed Sensor in a Dodge Ram

If you sense that the anti-lock brake system in your 2001 to 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 Truck 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 wheel speed sensor may be necessary.

Things You'll Need

• Battery terminal puller
• Car jack
• Wrench
• Torque wrench

Instructions

1. Park your Dodge Ram 1500 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 brake line from the sensor stud. There may be a brake line mounting nut that you will need to remove to perform this task.

4. Unscrew the mounting nut from the speed sensor and sensor shield. Remove the shield and speed sensor from the differential housing. Remove the o-ring and spacer if necessary.

5. Disconnect the sensor connection from the wiring harness and remove the speed sensor from the vehicle.

6. Install the new sensor by reversing the removal process. Torque the speed sensor mounting nut to 18 foot pounds (24 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.

Tips & Warnings

• For front wheel speed sensors, check the o-ring and spacer for damage and replace if necessary.

• Apply an anti-corrosive sealant to the wheel speed sensor prior to installation to prevent galvanic corrosion.

• You must install the wheel speed sensor properly to ensure your safety. Be sure that you install, route and clip all cables correctly and in the proper locations.

• Never remove the speed sensor with pliers. If corrosion causes the sensor to seize to the differential housing, use a small mallet and punch to remove it by lightly tapping the edge of the sensor ear and rocking the sensor from side to side until it comes loose. Additionally, don't hammer or bang the new wheel speed sensor into the sensor housing. You must push it in by hand.

• The disconnection of the negative battery cable may interfere with the on board computer function. Upon reconnection, the computer may need to go through a relearning process.

• Failure to install a wheel speed sensor properly, such as contact with moving parts or stretched sensor cables, can result in ABS failure and threaten your safety. If in doubt, consult a mechanic for correct installation.