How to Replace the Wheel Speed Sensor in a Ford Mustang

The anti-lock brake system, also known as ABS, senses the speed of each wheel and notes when one locks up, thus relieving the hydraulic pressure in that wheel to avoid a skid. The wheel speed sensor, attached to each wheel on your 1999 to 2004 Ford Mustang, sends the signal to the ABS system. A malfunctioning wheel speed sensor means that your ABS will likely fail, so it's important to replace that sensor immediately.

Things You'll Need

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

Instructions

1. Park your Ford Mustang 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 and the inner fender splash shield.

3. Disconnect the speed sensor's electrical connection.

4. Unscrew and remove the speed sensor mounting bolt and pull the sensor away from the wheel spindle.

5. Detach the speed sensor harness from the sensor harness clips and remove the sensor from the vehicle.

6. Reverse the removal process to install the new sensor. Torque the sensor mounting bolt to 62 inch pounds (seven 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Don't hammer or bang the new wheel speed sensor into the sensor housing. You must push it in by hand.