Amber Circle with 'ABS' text and parentheses on either side Light: Abs Light Warning Light
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Check Soon
The Nissan Altima Anti-lock Braking System has detected a fault. ABS is disabled but normal braking remains functional.
📋 What This Light Means
| Light Color | Amber |
| Symbol | Circle with 'ABS' text and parentheses on either side |
| Meaning | The Nissan Altima Anti-lock Braking System has detected a fault. ABS is disabled but normal braking remains functional. |
| Urgency | Check Soon |
| Brand Specific | Nissan Altima |
🛑 What to Do When This Light Comes On
Step 1: Drive with increased following distance and avoid sudden hard braking. The ABS will not pump the brakes during a panic stop — wheels may lock up on slippery surfaces. Have the system scanned for ABS codes as soon as possible. Common Altima ABS failures include: wheel speed sensor corrosion ($150-250 per sensor), ABS tone ring damage, or ABS module failure ($800-1500). Check all four wheel speed sensor connectors for corrosion — this is the most common cause on Altimas in northern states with road salt.
⚠️ What happens if you ignore this light: Without ABS, emergency braking on wet or icy roads can cause wheel lockup, increasing stopping distance by 20-40% and preventing steering while braking. The Altima's ABS system shares the wheel speed sensors with the traction control and stability control systems — all three may be disabled when the ABS light is on.
🛠️ Technician's Notes: Nissan-specific: The 2013-2018 Altima (L33 generation) has a known issue with rear wheel speed sensor wiring chafing against the suspension. Nissan issued TSB NTB17-033 for this. The fix involves rerouting the wiring harness — a $200-300 repair at a dealer. If your Altima ABS light comes on intermittently over bumps, this is almost certainly the cause.
📚 Data Sources: Warning light information compiled from SAE J2402 dashboard symbol standards, NHTSA vehicle safety regulations, OEM owner's manuals, and ASE master technician field experience. Different vehicle makes may display slightly different symbols. Always consult your owner's manual for make-specific warnings.