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Auto Repair & Maintenance Cost guide

Wheel Speed Sensor Cost: Parts, Labor & Average Price

Updated  2 sources

Typical replacement cost

$189 – $357

A wheel speed sensor tracks how fast each wheel is turning and sends that signal to your anti-lock brake and stability systems. You may also see it called an ABS sensor or a speed sensor, since those systems rely on it. When one fails, the ABS or traction control warning light usually comes on, and the system may stop working.

The price depends on one thing above all: whether the sensor is a separate bolt-in part or is built into the wheel bearing hub. Figures below were checked on Oct 13, 2026.

Wheel speed sensor cost by type

Item Typical range Relative price range
Professional service (bolt-in sensor) $150 – $600
Integrated hub assembly, part alone $250 – $500
Bolt-in sensor, part only (DIY) $33 – $201
ABS sensor repair or replacement $150 – $400

Sources: Jerry: Wheel speed sensor replacement cost; Meineke: ABS brakes repair

Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement Cost: Parts and Labor

A bolt-in sensor is a small electronic part that mounts near the hub. It is usually cheaper and quicker to replace. An integrated hub assembly places the sensor inside the wheel bearing, so the whole hub is replaced, and the part alone costs far more.

Labor depends on access and corrosion. A sensor that is stuck from rust, or a wiring harness that has been damaged, can add time. Many shops also charge for a scan to confirm the code before they replace anything.

ABS Sensor Replacement Cost

If you searched for an ABS sensor, you are looking at the same repair. Most vehicles use the same sensor for ABS, traction control, and stability control, and shops describe the job under either name. One of the sources below uses the "ABS sensor" wording, and the other says "wheel speed sensor."

What Affects the Cost

  • Sensor type. Bolt-in sensors cost less than hub assemblies with the sensor built in.
  • Active or passive sensor. Active sensors support driver-assist features and cost a bit more.
  • Which wheel. Front and rear locations can differ in access and labor time.
  • Corrosion. Rust around the hub can make removal harder.
  • Related damage. A cracked tone ring or a chafed wire can be the real problem, which adds to the repair.
  • Diagnosis. Shops often scan for codes and inspect the wiring first.
  • Shop rates. Dealers usually charge more per hour than independent shops.

Why Estimates Vary

The two ranges below overlap but do not match. One tracks typical repairs for a wide set of vehicles and covers both bolt-in sensors and hub repairs. The other is a general range from a repair chain that does not break out parts and labor and does not show a date. Differences in the vehicles, the sensor type, and local labor rates can all shift a number.

Estimates by source

Item Typical range Relative price range
Jerry $189 – $357
Meineke $150 – $400

Sources: Jerry: Wheel speed sensor replacement cost; Meineke: ABS brakes repair

The professional-service row above is a wide range for a reason. It spans simple bolt-in sensors up to jobs that need extra parts or diagnosis.

Does a Warning Light Mean the Sensor Is Bad?

Not always. A wheel speed sensor code can come from dirt or metal buildup on the sensor, damaged wiring, a worn tone ring, or mismatched tire sizes. A technician can clean the sensor, clear the code, and see whether it returns before replacing the part. Ask for the diagnostic result so you know the part was at fault.

Is It Safe to Drive With the ABS Light On?

Your regular brakes usually still work, but the anti-lock function may be disabled. That can make it easier to lock the wheels in an emergency stop on wet or slippery roads. Stability and traction control may also be affected. Have a licensed technician inspect the system soon, and avoid hard braking on slick surfaces until it is fixed.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

The part alone is available at lower prices for a bolt-in sensor, but the job involves lifting the vehicle safely and working near brake components. Corroded sensors can break, and a hub assembly is a bigger repair. If you are not experienced, a shop can complete the job and confirm that the warning light stays off.

Questions to Ask Before You Approve the Work

  • Is the quote for a bolt-in sensor or a hub assembly?
  • Has the shop confirmed which wheel is at fault?
  • Does the price include a diagnostic scan?
  • Are the parts original-equipment or aftermarket?
  • What warranty covers parts and labor?

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to replace a wheel speed sensor?

A typical replacement costs $189 – $357. A professional service on a bolt-in sensor is listed at $150 – $600.

Is an ABS sensor the same as a wheel speed sensor?

In most cases, yes. Shops use the names interchangeably for the sensor at each wheel.

How much does the part cost?

A bolt-in sensor costs $33 – $201 for the part alone. An integrated hub assembly costs $250 – $500 for the part alone.

Can I drive with a bad wheel speed sensor?

The brakes usually work, but the ABS and traction systems may not. Be cautious on wet roads and have it inspected soon.

Why does a hub assembly cost more?

The sensor is built into the wheel bearing, so the whole hub is replaced instead of just the sensor.

Can a dirty sensor trigger the warning light?

Yes. Buildup on the sensor can disrupt its signal, so a technician may clean it first.