A Guide to the ABS Speed Sensor for the 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche
Seeing ABS, StabiliTrak, or Traction Control lights on your dash? Your ABS speed sensor is the likely cause.
- The most common symptom of failure is a combination of ABS, StabiliTrak, and Traction Control warning lights.
- This is a great DIY repair; the sensors are held by one bolt and are accessible after removing the wheel and brake rotor.
- You only need to replace the specific sensor that has failed; use an ABS-capable scanner to identify the correct wheel.
- Value-priced aftermarket sensors are an affordable option, but premium aftermarket or OEM parts may offer better long-term reliability.
Is Your Avalanche Showing These Signs?
When an ABS speed sensor starts to fail on your 2007-2013 Avalanche, the symptoms are usually very clear. The truck's computer knows something is wrong and will alert you immediately. You are likely experiencing one or more of these issues.
Dashboard Warning Lights
This is the most common sign. You will likely see a combination of warning lights on your instrument cluster, including:
- ABS Light: Indicates the Anti-lock Braking System is offline.
- "Service StabiliTrak" Message: This is a very common message on this generation of GM trucks and is frequently caused by a bad wheel speed sensor.
- Traction Control Light: Shows that the system designed to prevent wheel spin is disabled.
Braking and Driving Problems
With the safety systems disabled, you may notice changes in how your truck drives. Your regular brakes will still work, but you lose the anti-lock function. This means your wheels could lock up and skid during a panic stop. Some drivers also report a pulsating brake pedal at low speeds or rough gear shifts as the truck's computer works with bad information.
A Note on "Service StabiliTrak"
While a faulty ABS sensor is a primary cause for the "Service StabiliTrak" warning, it's not the only one. On these trucks, issues like a weak battery, engine misfires, or a bad steering angle sensor can also trigger this light. However, if the ABS light is also on, the wheel speed sensor is the most probable culprit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When shopping for a new ABS speed sensor, you'll find original equipment (OEM) parts from ACDelco and various aftermarket options. For a part like this, quality can vary.
- OEM (ACDelco): Generally considered the highest quality and most reliable option. They are designed to the exact factory specifications for fit and electronic communication. However, they are also the most expensive.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Delphi, NTK, Dorman): These brands often provide quality comparable to OEM at a lower price point. They are a popular choice for a good balance of cost and reliability.
- Value-Priced Aftermarket ("Replacement"): These are the most affordable options and can offer significant savings. The trade-off is a slightly higher risk of premature failure or issues right out of the box compared to premium brands. For a simple, easy-to-access part like the Avalanche's ABS sensor, a value-priced part can be a sensible choice, especially if it comes with a good warranty.
Pro Tip: The front ABS sensors on the 2007-2013 Avalanche can be replaced separately from the wheel hub assembly. This is a major advantage, as you do not need to buy an expensive hub just to fix a sensor issue.
Cost of Replacing an ABS Speed Sensor on a 2007-2013 Avalanche
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Sensor (ACDelco) | $45 - $105 per sensor |
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $24 - $32 per sensor |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 per sensor |
| DIY Total (Aftermarket) | $24 - $32 per sensor |
| Shop Total (Aftermarket) | $124 - $212 per sensor |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to replace an Avalanche ABS sensor myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The front and rear sensors are typically held in by a single bolt and an electrical connector. The most difficult part is often just removing the wheel and brake components to get access. Basic hand tools are all that's required.
Do I need to replace all four sensors at once?
No. You only need to replace the sensor that has failed. A good OBD2 scanner that can read ABS codes will tell you exactly which wheel is reporting a fault (e.g., "C0040 - Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit"). This saves you from buying unnecessary parts.
What is the most common cause of failure?
The sensors live in a harsh environment behind the wheels. Over time, exposure to water, road salt, and debris can damage the sensor or its wiring harness. Sometimes the wire can get stretched or broken. In rust-prone areas, the sensor body can also corrode and get stuck in the wheel hub.
Is there a recall for this part?
No, there are no active recalls from GM or NHTSA for the ABS wheel speed sensors on the 2007-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche.
What if I replace the sensor and the light stays on?
First, ensure you have cleared the trouble codes with a scanner. If the light returns, double-check the wiring harness for damage. There is also a GM Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that notes in some cases, an issue inside the transfer case can cause a rear speed sensor code (C0055), even if the sensor itself is good. If you've checked the sensor and wiring, this may be the next place to look.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 15233108 20938122 15121067 20938121 ALS1464 ALS1744
The system uses four individual sensors, one at each wheel. The front sensors are mounted to the wheel hub assembly with a single bolt. The rear sensors are mounted to the axle near the brake assembly. Each sensor comes with an integrated wiring harness and connector.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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