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Suspension, steering, brakes and wheels

Problems with the ABS and ESP: symptoms, cost and affected models

We have documented 115 faults with the ABS and ESP in 112 cars. The most important by severity and frequency: fire risk from the ABS control module (HECU) (Hyundai Tucson III), short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire risk (Kia Sportage IV) and brake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP from the EBS valve block (2024 production) (Opel Corsa F). At an independent garage, the repair costs from €200 to €2,100 depending on the engine or car.[1][2]

Documented faults
115
75 of high or critical severity
Cars analysed
112
with at least one fault on this part
Affected models
112
car generations in our database
Garage repair
€200–€2,100
Depending on engine and car, including VAT

6 sourcesHow we work

How it works and why it fails

ABS and stability control (ESP)

ABS stops the wheels locking when braking and ESP corrects skids by braking individual wheels. Both depend on the speed sensors at each wheel and on a hydraulic block with its control unit. A dirty sensor or a damaged wire is enough to turn the warning light on.

What to do

With the ABS or ESP warning light on, the brakes still work, but without those aids: drive with a bigger safety margin and get a diagnosis. If the light comes with an odd pedal feel or leaks, do not drive. Some hydraulic blocks have been subject to campaigns because of a fire risk.

General explanation by MotorFiable. The specific faults of each engine and car, with their sources, are on the linked pages.

Common symptoms

The symptoms that come up most often in the documented faults with the ABS and ESP. Open each one to see what other faults cause it.

Problems with the ABS and ESP by car

Faults documented on specific cars, which occur with any engine. From most to least important.

  1. 1Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentHyundai Tucson IIIFire risk from the ABS control module (HECU)Yes. Hyundai recalled the Tucson TL built between February 2017 and August 2020 (campaign 11DC03) because the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked. In the US the same campaign (20V543000) covered model years 2016-2021.
  2. 2Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentKia Sportage IVShort circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire riskYes: Germany's KBA and the US NHTSA have recorded several campaigns (2021 and 2025) over a short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit that can cause a fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked and switched off.
  3. 3Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentOpel Corsa FBrake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP from the EBS valve block (2024 production)The manufacturer recalled Opel Corsa F cars built between 24 May and 27 August 2024 because of an EBS valve block with a casting defect that can cause an internal brake fluid leak and the loss of stability control, ABS and electronic brake distribution.
  4. 4Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentPeugeot 2008 IIReduced braking effectiveness from an HBC electronic fault (2023 production)On Peugeot 2008 II models built between 2 October and 15 November 2023, an error in the vacuum circuit can make the electronic unit send an invalid value to the hydraulic brake compensation (HBC), which reduces braking effectiveness.
  5. 5Critical severityFrequency: Very frequentPeugeot 208 IIBrake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP due to the EBS valve block (2024 production)The manufacturer recalled Peugeot 208 IIs built between 27 May and 6 June 2024 over an EBS valve block with a casting defect that can cause an internal brake fluid leak and loss of ABS and ESP. The Opel Corsa has an equivalent campaign with different dates.
  6. 6Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi e-tronElectromechanical brake booster failure and corrosion of the brake pressure unit (ABS/ESC)In 2021 Audi recalled two batches of the e-tron because of the electromechanical brake booster (2,303 cars, recall 47R1) and the corrosion of the brake pressure unit (361, recall 47R7). Both can affect the brake booster, the ABS and the ESC and lengthen the braking distance.
  7. 7Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C4 IIIInternal brake fluid leak from the EBS valve block (built May-June 2024)In C4 III cars built between 29 May and 5 June 2024, the aluminium of the EBS valve block may not have fused completely around the valves, which causes internal brake fluid leaks and may lead to loss of ABS and stability control.
  8. 8Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C4 XInternal brake fluid leak in the EBS valve block (built May and June 2024)Yes: on C4 X cars built between 29 May and 3 June 2024 the aluminium of the EBS valve block may not have been cast properly and can cause an internal brake fluid leak that disables the stability control and ABS. It is a recall published on Safety Gate in June 2025.
  9. 9Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalDacia DokkerRecall for debris in the brake hydraulic unit (ABS/ESP)Yes: in 2016 there was a recall affecting Dacia Dokkers built between February and April 2016 because of a defect in the brake hydraulic unit that could reduce braking efficiency.
  10. 10Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalDacia LodgyRecall for debris in the brake hydraulic unit (ABS/ESP)Yes: in 2016 there was a recall affecting Dacia Lodgy units built between February and April 2016 because of a defect in the brake hydraulic unit that could reduce braking effectiveness.
  11. 11Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat Doblò IIIBrake vacuum circuit fault: hydraulic brake compensation (HBC) may be disabledFiat recalled Doblòs built between 14 September 2023 and 20 January 2024: given a specific error in the brake vacuum circuit, the control unit may send an invalid value to the hydraulic brake compensation (HBC) system and reduce braking effectiveness.
  12. 12Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai i40Short circuit in the ABS hydraulic module (HECU) with a burning smellYes: the British DVSA records a recall (references 41D091 / 41DC27, September 2024) for 17,893 UK i40s built between November 2010 and October 2014: the ABS hydraulic unit can suffer a short circuit and a lower-rated fuse is fitted.
  13. 13Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai ix35Fire risk from the ABS control moduleYes. A European safety alert (Safety Gate, reference 41D091) covers ix35s built between 26 May 2009 and 31 October 2014: the ABS module can fail internally and cause a short circuit with a risk of fire in the engine bay, even with the car parked.
  14. 14Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai Santa Fe IIIShort circuit in the ABS/ESP module of Santa Fes built up to October 2014Yes: Hyundai has recalled Santa Fes built up to 31 October 2014 for two reasons related to the brake module: impurities in the brake fluid that damage some O-rings and let fluid reach the ABS circuit board, and a short circuit in the ESP unit. In both cases there is a risk of fire.
  15. 15Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai Santa Fe IIIInternal short circuit in the ABS module of Santa Fes built between 2015 and 2018Yes: a Safety Gate alert from November 2022 covers Santa Fes (DM) built between 5 March 2015 and 12 February 2018 because the ABS module can suffer an internal short circuit, which increases the risk of fire in the engine bay.
  16. 16Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai VelosterABS module short circuit caused by brake fluid leak (campaign 41D091)Yes: Hyundai has recalled Velosters built between November 2010 and October 2014 because impurities in the brake fluid can damage some O-rings and let fluid reach the ABS circuit board, with a risk of short circuit and fire. According to Autofácil, the check is free of charge.
  17. 17Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Carens IIABS control unit programming fault: reduced braking below 40 km/hYes: the British DVSA records recall R/2003/162 for 2,638 Carens built between 27 November 2002 and 19 March 2003. A programming fault in the ABS control unit could reduce braking force below 40 km/h; the remedy was to reprogram the control unit.
  18. 18Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Carens IIIInternal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit with fire riskA February 2025 Safety Gate alert includes Carens built between September 2009 and December 2012. An internal brake fluid leak can cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESC electrical circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of an engine fire.
  19. 19Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Ceed IFaulty brake master cylinder on Ceed with ESP built in 2008-2009Yes: in 2010 Kia recalled cee'd models with ESP built between 1 April 2008 and 30 March 2009, because the brake master cylinder could fail to deliver the expected force and lengthen braking distance. The inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the part were free of charge.
  20. 20Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Optima IIIABS/ESC hydraulic unit (HECU) short circuit with fire riskYes: a Safety Gate alert (campaign 241A04QF) covers Optimas built between 11 August 2011 and 11 July 2013: an internal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC can cause a short circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of fire. The repair is free.
  21. 21Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Picanto IInternal leak in the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit: short-circuit and fire riskYes: Picantos built between 17 December 2009 and 11 January 2011 are covered by a campaign (Safety Gate alert 7/2025) because an internal brake fluid leak in the ABS/ESC unit can cause a short circuit and overheat the fuse box, with a risk of fire. It is corrected at an official dealer.
  22. 22Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Rio IIIShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: in December 2024 Kia recalled 59,379 Rio UB built between 15 December 2010 and 31 March 2017 because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and a short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire under the bonnet, according to the British DVSA.
  23. 23Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Sportage IIIShort circuit in the ABS/ESC brake unit (HECU): fire riskYes: Kia has recalled the Sportage SL at least twice (February 2023 and December 2024) because the hydraulic brake unit (HECU, which manages the ABS and ESC) can suffer an internal leak and an electrical short circuit that, in extreme cases, overheats the fuse box with a risk of fire in the engine bay, according to the UK's DVSA.
  24. 24Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Defender IIThird-row seatbelt lower anchorage with a welded stud of insufficient strengthYes: a 2026 campaign (D113) affects Defenders built between November 2025 and March 2026 because the welded stud on the lower anchorage bracket of the third-row seatbelt does not have the required strength, and the belt might not restrain properly in a crash. The bracket is replaced.
  25. 25Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase A W168Rollover in the elk test: revised suspension and standard ESP on the 1997 A-ClassIn October 1997 a Swedish magazine rolled an A-Class in the elk test. Mercedes halted production and sales, stiffened the suspension, changed the tyres and fitted ESP as standard, even to cars already delivered.
  26. 26Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz GLE V167Brake pedal needing more force in electric mode in the rain: ESP software update (plug-in hybrid GLE)In specific conditions, such as driving in electric mode in the rain, the plug-in hybrid GLE may need more force on the brake pedal to achieve the desired deceleration. Mercedes corrected it with an ESP software update on 97,652 cars built between 2019 and 2023.
  27. 27Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz SLC R172Faulty ESP software: the brakes may stay slightly applied and overheatYes: a 2017 campaign corrects a fault in the ESP software which, because of low residual pressure in the hydraulic circuit, could leave the brakes slightly applied; the resulting heat could affect the brake fluid and, according to the DVSA, a fire in the wheel arch cannot be ruled out. It is fixed by updating the software.
  28. 28Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz SLK R172Faulty ESP software: the brakes may stay slightly applied and overheatYes: a 2017 campaign corrects a fault in the ESP software which, through low residual pressure in the hydraulic circuit, could leave the brakes slightly applied; the resulting heat could affect the brake fluid and, according to the DVSA, a fire in the wheel arch cannot be ruled out. It is fixed by updating the software.
  29. 29Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Mokka BBrake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP from the EBS valve block (built May-June 2024)Opel recalled Mokka Bs built between 24 May and 7 June 2024 over a casting defect in the EBS valve block that can cause an internal brake fluid leak and the loss of ABS and stability control.
  30. 30Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Jetta VABS/ESP earth connection interrupted by thermal overloadYes: a European alert from 2017 (A12/0909/17) covers the Jetta and Golf Variant built between May 2008 and August 2010 because the ABS/ESP system's earth connection can be interrupted by thermo-mechanical overload, with a risk of ABS/ESP failure and of an accident.
  31. 31High severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo GiuliettaInadequate ABS control unit: loss of ABS functions (2016 campaign)Safety Gate/RAPEX published in April 2017 (alert 14/2017) a recall of Giulietta built between April and May 2016: the ABS control unit is inadequate and may fail, so the wheels could lock in unexpected situations.
  32. 32High severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo GTElectronic stability control (VDC/ESP) control unit fault with the emergency spare wheel fittedYes: DVSA recall R/2006/128 covered 3,950 British Alfa Romeo GTs built between February 2003 and November 2005, because the VDC did not work properly with the emergency spare wheel fitted. Its warning light could come on and braking could be weaker under hard braking; it was corrected by fitting a control unit with updated software.
  33. 33High severityFrequency: OccasionalAlfa Romeo StelvioFaulty brake system IBS module: risk of ABS failure (Stelvio 2019-2021)A Safety Gate alert from September 2021 (campaign 6334) warns that the IBS module of the integrated braking system on some Giulia and Stelvio built between January 2019 and February 2021 may be faulty and leave the ABS inoperative. It affected only 56 vehicles worldwide.
  34. 34High severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi Q4 e-tronCampaign 45BF: stability control module missing pump motor screwsAccording to the fiches-auto.fr data sheet, campaign 45BF affects the electronic stability control module because of missing screws in the pump motor, in cars built from 25 March to 23 April 2024.
  35. 35High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 3 F30ABS pump and ABS/DSC module failureThe British press describes ABS pump failures that can cause a brake to stick, along with campaigns related to the ABS/DSC module on the 3 Series F30/F31.
  36. 36High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 5 E39ABS module failure on the BMW 5 Series E39According to the owner reports collected by fiches-auto.fr (317 for the 1995-2003 5 Series), there are 16 cases of ABS module failure.
  37. 37High severityFrequency: OccasionalBMW Serie 7 G11ABS module: recall for longer braking distanceAccording to the fiches-auto.fr page, BMW issued a recall in April 2021 for cars built between December 2018 and February 2021 because of an ABS module defect that could lengthen the braking distance. Check with your chassis number whether your car is included.
  38. 38High severityFrequency: OccasionalFord Focus IIAlternator fault with false battery, ESP and power steering warningsThe alternator is the most repeated electrical fault of the Focus II across all engines: an unstable charge lights the battery and ESP warning lights for no real reason and, in the most pronounced cases, an occasional loss of power steering assistance may be noticed.Appears at around 60,000 km
  39. 39High severityFrequency: OccasionalHyundai i30 IShort circuit in the ABS/ESP module that can disable the ABS (recall)Safety Gate issued an alert in 2020 (23/2020) for i30s built between May 2007 and May 2012: an electrical short circuit in the ABS/ESC module can disable both systems and worsen braking. Hyundai campaign code 01D010.
  40. 40High severityFrequency: OccasionalIveco Daily VStability control (MSR) that may not act in very aggressive drivingIn 2013 Iveco recalled around 1,649 Dailys in the UK because, in very aggressive driving, the stability regulator (MSR) could fail to intervene and leave the van unstable. The fix was to load a new version of the software.
  41. 41High severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Carens IVInternal brake fluid leak that can cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESCA Safety Gate alert from February 2025 covers a Kia recall, including the Carens built between August 2012 and July 2018, for an internal brake fluid leak that can cause a short circuit in the ABS/ESC circuit and a risk of fire.
  42. 42High severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Sportage IISudden braking caused by an ESP control unit logic faultAccording to the British DVSA, a 2005 campaign covered Sportage XS models built between February 2004 and February 2005 because of an error in the ESP control unit logic that could apply the brakes suddenly; it was resolved by reprogramming the control unit. The DVSA does not state the car's generation.
  43. 43High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase G W463ESP software that may fail and lengthen the braking distance (September 2015 to November 2017)Yes: Safety Gate alert A12/1824/17 (December 2017) covers type 463 G-Class built between September 2015 and November 2017 because the ESP software may fail and lengthen the braking or stopping distance. The DVSA lists an ESP update on 198 British G-Class with Distronic Plus.
  44. 44High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase G W463AFront axle wiring harness that rubs against the auxiliary radiator and may affect ESP and ABS (2018 to 2022)Yes: a KBA recall (012572) covers 126,042 G-Class built between 2018 and 2022 because the front axle wiring harness may rub against the auxiliary radiator and damage the ESP and ABS. It is checked and replaced if necessary.
  45. 45High severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Sprinter 906ESP (stability control) control unit switching offMercedes recalled 54,703 Sprinters built between January 2012 and October 2018 because the ESP control unit can switch off in certain circumstances, with loss of stability and a greater risk of an accident. It is a manufacturer campaign (alert A12/00548/21).
  46. 46High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi ASX ISoftware faults in the emergency braking (FCM) and stability control (ASC)Mitsubishi corrected two ASX defects with software updates: in 2018, an ASC fault that could affect adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and the ABS, and an FCM that could brake more than necessary; in 2021, an FCM that could misread the camera and brake for no reason.
  47. 47High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi Eclipse Cross IAutomatic braking and stability control softwareMitsubishi recalled the Eclipse Cross (2017-2021) over the software of the FCM automatic braking system, which misprocesses camera images; an earlier 2018 campaign corrected the ASC and the brake hydraulic unit.Repair: €0
  48. 48High severityFrequency: OccasionalMitsubishi Outlander IIISoftware faults in the emergency braking (FCM) and stability control (ASC)Mitsubishi corrected several defects on the Outlander and Outlander PHEV with software updates: in 2018, an ASC fault that could affect adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and ABS, and an FCM that could brake more than necessary; in 2021, an FCM that could misread the camera and brake for no reason.
  49. 49High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault AustralABS-ESP control unit that does not warn of braking system faults (campaign 0EN9)The supplier programmed the ABS-ESP control unit of a batch of Australs (built from 23 March 2023 to 23 January 2025, 24,112 cars according to the KBA) incorrectly: if the braking system failed, the dashboard might not warn that ABS, ESP or emergency braking had stopped working. It is fixed by reprogramming the control unit.
  50. 50High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Espace V2016 brake recalls: front brake hose and ABS/ESC hydraulic unitThe first Espace V cars had two brake recalls in 2016: a front brake hose fitted incorrectly that could rub against the wheel rim and lose fluid, and an ABS/ESC hydraulic unit with contaminating particles. Both are preventive recalls.
  51. 51High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Kangoo IIPossible reversed ABS lines and pump failuresFiches-auto.fr documents a check over the risk that the ABS hydraulic lines were reversed in the hydraulic block of some Kangoo II vehicles, and also collects reports of failures of the ABS pump itself from 25,000 km.Appears at around 25,000 km
  52. 52High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Mégane IIIWater ingress into the ABS/ESP modulesOn some Megane III, water can seep into the ABS and ESP modules, causing short circuits and the corresponding warning light to come on, according to Caradisiac's reliability sheet.
  53. 53High severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault TalismanBrake recalls on early units: brake hose, caliper-disc and ABS/ESC unitEarly Talisman units (2015-2016) had three brake recalls: a front brake hose fitted incorrectly, an unsuitable caliper-disc combination and contamination of the ABS/ESC hydraulic unit. They are preventive campaigns, not a widespread fault.
  54. 54High severityFrequency: OccasionalSeat León IIABS/ESP control unit with interrupted earth connection (2007-2009 campaign)León IIs built between November 2007 and June 2009 were recalled in 2017 because the earth connection of the ABS/ESP control unit can be cut by thermal overload, leaving both systems inoperative.
  55. 55High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Land Cruiser J150VSC stability control with KDSS suspension reacting late in extreme manoeuvresYes: in April 2010 Toyota recalled around 7,500 Land Cruiser 150s in Europe fitted with the optional KDSS suspension. The VSC stability control could respond late during a sudden swerve at high speed or a corner taken too fast. It is corrected by updating the VSC software.
  56. 56High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Prius IIIDelayed brake response caused by the ABS software on the Prius IIIIn February 2010 Toyota recalled cars to update the ABS software because of a delayed braking response on certain surfaces; according to Wikipedia it affected around 52,000 Prius in Europe.
  57. 57High severityFrequency: OccasionalToyota Yaris IVElectric parking brake and ABS software fault on the 2020-2021 hybrid YarisA 2021 campaign affected around 144,500 European hybrid Yarisses built between July 2020 and April 2021: a software fault in the brake control unit could render the electric parking brake and other functions inoperative.
  58. 58High severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Caddy IIIInadequate ABS/ESP diagnostic functionOn Caddy III units built between 2008 and 2010, the ABS/ESP self-diagnosis function could fail to reliably detect a fault in the system itself, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de, with the risk that a real fault would go unnoticed.Repair: €0
  59. 59Medium severityFrequency: CommonCitroën C5 ICitroën C5 electronics and BSI module faults (ESP, airbag, parking brake)The C5 I had reliability problems because of the integration of its electronic multiplexing (French Wikipedia). According to fiches-auto.fr, 82 of 447 reports cite electronic and BSI faults: ESP, ASR, airbag, power steering, parking brake and display.
  60. 60Medium severityFrequency: CommonFord C-Max IESP warning light permanently on due to a defective ABS module (code C1288)The C-Max I's ESP warning light can stay permanently on because of a defective ABS module that generates fault code C1288, a fault that affects all production years according to the source consulted.
  61. 61Medium severityFrequency: CommonMercedes-Benz Clase C W203False ESP/airbag warning lights, a humidity-sensitive SAM module and EWS immobiliser faultsIt is one of the areas with the most complaints on the W203: ESP, SRS or airbag warning lights that come on for no reason, temperamental central locking, SAM modules that age badly with damp and, in units built before the 2004 update, faults with the EWS immobiliser and the steering column switch.
  62. 62Medium severityFrequency: CommonVolkswagen Touran ISensor and ABS/ESP control unit faultsYes: fiches-auto.fr documents ABS and ESP sensor faults (15 cases combined) that light up warning lights on the cluster, and gebrauchtwagenberater.de independently confirms ABS control unit faults with fault code 01435.
  63. 63Critical severityFrequency: RareAudi A3 IIInsufficient ESP and ABS diagnostic function on 2009 vehiclesOn vehicles built in 2009, gebrauchtwagenberater.de documents an insufficient diagnostic function that can lead to problems with the ESP and ABS system itself; we have not found the campaign number or a second source that confirms it.
  64. 64Critical severityFrequency: RareCitroën C3 IIPlastic debris in the ABS/ESP hydraulic unit with a risk of loss of control (March-April 2016 production)Citroën recalled C3 II cars assembled in March and April 2016 because the ABS/ESP hydraulic unit could contain plastic manufacturing debris that affects its operation, with a risk of loss of control of the vehicle according to the official campaign notice.
  65. 65Critical severityFrequency: RareJeep Compass MPBrake system hydraulic control unit (IBS) fault that reduces assistance and disables ABS (2020-2021 production)Yes: an August 2021 recall covers vehicles built between November 2020 and March 2021 in which a defect in the hydraulic control unit of the integrated brake system (IBS) could reduce braking assistance and disable the ABS.
  66. 66Critical severityFrequency: RareToyota Corolla XIIIncorrect brake pressure when cornering due to stability control softwareOn specific cars built between 2023 and 2024, a programming fault in the stability control unit (skid control) can mismanage brake pressure when the pedal is pressed in a corner, giving a hard pedal and less braking force. Toyota fixes it with a software update.
  67. 67Critical severityFrequency: RareVolkswagen ID.3ESC unit: missing motor bolts on the pump, with risk of service brake failureA manufacturer campaign covers a very small batch of ID.3s (built between 4 and 26 April 2024) whose pump motor in the ESC unit may lack fixing bolts, with a risk of hydraulic brake failure.
  68. 68Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi A3 IABS/ESP module or hydraulic unit failureAccording to the fiches-auto.fr owner reports, there are 12 cases of ABS/ESP faults on the A3 8L, and the page mentions an ABS campaign carried out in 2002 with no further detail.
  69. 69Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalAudi A3 IIIABS/ESP warning light on because of sensors, with no real brake faultSeveral owners and a specialist garage document the ABS or ESP warning light coming on intermittently or permanently on the A3 with no real fault in the brakes, almost always because of a faulty wheel speed sensor.
  70. 70Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën C3 IABS faults from sensors or wiring, and parking brake recall (late 2009)On the first-generation C3, ABS warning light faults have been documented due to faulty wheel sensors or corroded wiring, and Citroën issued a campaign in late 2009 to check the parking brake system for a defect that the source does not describe technically.
  71. 71Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord B-MaxABS failure caused by the hydraulic unit and premature wear of the brake discsfiches-auto.fr documents 7 cases of ABS failure among 127 Ford B-Max owner testimonials, caused by a hydraulic unit that no longer modulates braking pressure properly, along with complaints of brake discs wearing out sooner than expected.
  72. 72Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalFord S-Max IElectronic faults on the S-Max: ABS/ESP warnings and steering wheel controlsOn the S-Max I, owners report 24 electrical cases: warning lights on all at once, ABS/ESP faults, steering wheel controls that do not respond, as well as batteries and alternators.
  73. 73Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Cerato ICorrosion of the ABS unit motor and the rear brake pipesAccording to the used Kia Cerato I press review, the ABS unit motor has a short service life and often corrodes inside, and the rear brake pipes rust; in addition, the pipes swell if the brake fluid is changed too rarely.
  74. 74Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalKia Picanto IIIRear wheel hub ABS sensor failing at low mileageSeveral Kia Picanto III owners (1.2 84 hp version) describe the ABS sensor built into a rear wheel hub failing between 36,000 and 55,000 km, with the ABS/ESP warning light on, according to fiches-auto.fr.Appears at around 36,000 km
  75. 75Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalLand Rover Freelander IFaulty brake pedal switch causing intermittent ABS and ESP warning lightsHaynes notes that Freelander I models of all years can show intermittent ABS and ESP warning lights because of a faulty brake pedal switch, and advises checking fault code C1222.
  76. 76Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase C W204False ABS/ESP/airbag warning lights and a COMAND screen that freezesOwners report with some frequency ABS, ESP or airbag warning lights that come on for no apparent reason, along with a COMAND screen or controller that freezes or runs very slowly.
  77. 77Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase E W210Brake light switch failure with BAS/ASR and ABS/ESP warningsA faulty brake light switch can turn on the BAS/ASR warnings on the W210 dashboard; the German Wikipedia also mentions ABS/ESP warning light faults.
  78. 78Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase M W163ABS/ESP hydraulic unit wiring that rubs at the front left wheel arch of the Mercedes M-Class W163Gebrauchtwagenberater describes how the hydraulic unit's wiring harness rubs against the front left wheel arch lining and ends up causing ABS and ESP faults. Only that source reports it.
  79. 79Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz Clase S W221ABS and wheel speed sensor failureThe reports on the fiches-auto.fr page include around ten cases of probes and sensors (11 in total) on the W221; on an S320 CDI, a speed sensor at €450 and an ABS sensor at €210 are cited. It is not an official recall.
  80. 80Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLK C209Sensor and electronics faults: airbag, ESP/ABS warning lights and parking sensorsIt is the largest group of non-mechanical complaints for the CLK C209 on fiches-auto.fr (22 testimonies): airbag or ESP/ABS warning lights on, and parking and steering angle sensors that fail. There is no known official campaign.
  81. 81Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz SLK R170Wheel sensor failure and other electrical faults on the SLK R170According to testimonies collected by fiches-auto.fr, the SLK R170's wheel sensors fail "one by one" (one case at 37,000 km) and warning lights come on for no apparent reason. The entry counts around 24 electrical and electronic testimonies.
  82. 82Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 406BSI module faults and false ABS warningsThe 406 has documented faults in the BSI electronic module, the immobiliser and the ABS sensors: false warnings, air conditioning that stops working, or a car that will not start.Repair: €600
  83. 83Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalRenault Twingo IIElectrical faults: faulty alternator and ABS systemThe reports cite an alternator failing at 22,000 km (€900 with no manufacturer cover) and an ABS fault at 18,000 km. These are isolated fiches-auto.fr cases, with no official campaign.
  84. 84Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalSeat León IIABS/ESP warning light coming on intermittentlyABS and ESP warnings account for 11 of the 305 Leon II owner responses collected in a fiches-auto.fr reliability survey; the source does not specify whether the usual origin is a wheel sensor, the module or the wiring.
  85. 85Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalŠkoda Octavia IABS/ESP system faultsAdding ABS (3) and ESP (2), these systems account for 5 of the 87 Octavia I owner responses in the fiches-auto.fr reliability survey, though the source does not detail whether the usual origin is a sensor, the hydraulic unit or the control unit.
  86. 86Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalVolkswagen Polo IVRear drum brakes can seize and the ABS can fault intermittentlyAccording to gebrauchtwagenberater.de, the Polo IV's rear drum brakes can seize over time; fiches-auto.fr also documents intermittent ABS faults in a minority of cars. We have found no mileage or repair cost figures for either.
  87. 87Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalVolvo XC90 ISteering angle sensor failure that turns on the DSTC warning light and disables stability controlAccording to Total Renting, the XC90 I's steering angle sensor, fitted at the base of the steering column, tends to fail between 8 and 15 years of age because its internal solder joints degrade: the DSTC (anti-skid) light stays on and the system is disabled. Replacing it costs €200-350 in Spain.Repair (garage): €200–€350
  88. 88High severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 1 E87ABS/DSC module failurefiches-auto.fr documents a case of a faulty ABS/DSC unit on a 1 Series E87 at 75,000 km, with a repair cost of €2,100, which lights up the ABS and stability control warning lights.Repair (garage): €2,100
  89. 89High severityFrequency: RareBMW Serie 4 F32ABS and DSC system faultsAccording to the owner reports collected by fiches-auto.fr, there are 2 cases of ABS/DSC faults among 103 reports on the 4 Series. No official recall is recorded.
  90. 90High severityFrequency: RareCitroën C3 PicassoImpurities in the ABS/ESP hydraulic circuitThe page mentions 3-4 cases of ABS/ESP failure and a recall in October 2016 over possible impurities in the hydraulic circuit; we have not been able to verify it in another source.
  91. 91High severityFrequency: RareDacia Logan IRecall for a fault with the ABS warning light in the dashboardAccording to CarWiki.de, an electronic fault in the Logan I's instrument cluster could switch off the ABS warning light and hide a system fault from the driver; the recall affected just over 1,000 vehicles.
  92. 92High severityFrequency: RareDacia Logan IIBadly fitted brake pads that alter the trajectory when ESP acts (Logan MCV 2020)Safety Gate (51/2020, Dacia code 0DEC) warns that on the Logan MCV built in Tangier between 29 May and 25 June 2020 the brake pads may be badly fitted, which alters the trajectory when ESP intervenes, with a risk of accident.
  93. 93High severityFrequency: RareDacia Sandero IRecall for ABS warning light fault in the instrument clusterSandero I cars built between 26 May and 12 November 2008 may have a faulty instrument cluster lamp that fails to warn of an ABS fault, according to gebrauchtwagenberater.de. Single source.
  94. 94High severityFrequency: RareFiat 500eIBS module fault that can cause loss of ABS (September 2021 campaign)In September 2021 Fiat recalled 500e cars built between November and December 2020 because the IBS (Integrated Brake System) module could be faulty and cause a failure of the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
  95. 95High severityFrequency: RareHonda Civic IXABS/VSA modulator with a manufacturing defect (recalls)Honda recalled the Civic IX over the ABS/VSA modulator: swarf in the ABS control unit (2014-2015, according to the KBA), a valve that could stay open (March 2016) and a misaligned filter (April 2016).
  96. 96High severityFrequency: RareMercedes-Benz GLB X247Moisture in the ESP unit with risk of short circuitA 2022 European notice covers a very small batch of GLBs built in October 2020: the ESP unit can be damaged and let in moisture, with risk of short circuit, fire or loss of ESP and ABS.
  97. 97High severityFrequency: RarePeugeot 2008 IPlastic part in an ABS/ESP unit valve (production of April-May 2016)A 2016 recall covers Peugeot 2008 models built from 2 April to 5 May 2016: a plastic part in an inlet valve of the ABS/ESP unit could cause incorrect regulation and unexpected wheel locking.
  98. 98High severityFrequency: RareRenault Twingo IIIESP operating problem (built up to December 2014)Yes: Renault recalled Twingo III cars built up to 15 December 2014 over an ESP operating problem, according to a German used-car guide; we have not found the number of units affected.
  99. 99High severityFrequency: RareSeat AlteaThe ABS/ESP self-diagnosis function might fail to detect a real system faultThe KBA documented that, on 2009 Altea cars, an inadequate self-diagnosis function in the ABS/ESP system might fail to detect a real fault, leaving the driver without the corresponding warning and at risk of losing control of the vehicle in an emergency manoeuvre.
  100. 100Low severityFrequency: CommonAudi TT IInstrument cluster and on-board electronics faults (pixels, ESP and airbag warning lights)According to owner reports collected by fiches-auto.fr (149 for this model), electrical and electronic faults are the most frequently cited non-mechanical category: a cluster display with missing pixels, ESP and airbag warning lights coming on and erratic temperature sensors.
  101. 101Medium severityFrequency: RareFord S-Max IIElectric parking brake faults and ABS/ESP warnings caused by wheel sensorsAmong 24 owner reports for the second-generation Ford S-Max, fiches-auto.fr documents control faults or unexpected release of the electric parking brake, along with one case of an ABS/ESP warning caused by wheel sensors giving inconsistent readings.
  102. 102Medium severityFrequency: RareHonda Accord VIIIABS unit fault warning light on the Honda Accord VIIIOne testimonial on fiches-auto.fr cites the ABS unit fault warning light at 150,000 km. It is an isolated case with no repair cost; we document it as a rare issue.
  103. 103Medium severityFrequency: RareIveco Daily IVRear axle ABS sensors: intermittent ABS/ESP warningsA parts specialist for the Daily identifies the rear axle ABS sensors as a cause of intermittent ABS/ESP warnings on the 2006 to 2014 versions, usually from damaged wiring or corrosion at the sensor mount.
  104. 104Medium severityFrequency: RareIveco Daily VRear axle ABS sensors: intermittent ABS/ESP warningsA parts specialist for the Daily points to the rear axle ABS sensors as a cause of intermittent ABS/ESP warnings on 2006 to 2014 versions, usually from damaged wiring or corrosion at the sensor bracket.
  105. 105Medium severityFrequency: RareJaguar XEWheel speed sensor faults with ABS and stability control warningsAccording to testimonials on fiches-auto.fr, several Jaguar XE owners report wheel speed sensor faults and simultaneous ABS, ESP and brake assist warnings.
  106. 106Medium severityFrequency: RareLancia ThesisESP and ASR stability control faultsTwo sources from different countries cite ESP/ASR faults on the Thesis: an Italian owner says they often play up, and a French user asks about an intermittent ESP fault.
  107. 107Medium severityFrequency: RareLancia Ypsilon IIESP warning light on due to the brake fluid pressure sensor (code C1131) on the Lancia YpsilonHella documents that on some Ypsilons (843) with chassis numbers between 3002025 and 3082107 the ESP warning light can come on with code C 1131, which points to the brake fluid pressure sensor. The sensor is integrated into the hydraulic unit, so if it fails the complete unit may need replacing.
  108. 108Medium severityFrequency: RareLand Rover Discovery 4Stability control switched off by software and suspension drops to safety modeIn 2015 there was a UK campaign for software wrongly installed in the ABS self-test on Discoveries built from August 2014 to March 2015: the stability and traction control could be switched off and the air suspension dropped to its lowest height with an amber warning. The software was updated.
  109. 109Medium severityFrequency: RareToyota C-HR IIThe ABS can be deactivated by a wheel sensor or wiring faultOne owner describes a faulty wheel speed sensor, its wiring or the hydraulic block causing the ABS control unit to receive inconsistent data and deactivate the system as a safety measure.
  110. 110Medium severityFrequency: RareVolkswagen BoraABS control unit that may overheat and burn (recall 2001)ADAC lists a March 2002 recall for the Bora built between March and July 2001 with ABS but without ASR/ESP, due to an electrical fault in the ABS control unit that could overheat components. Gebrauchtwagenberater also cites it. It covered around 1,200 units in Germany.
  111. 111Low severityFrequency: OccasionalDacia Duster IABS/ESP and handbrake warning lights coming on for no reason, and an erratic fuel gaugeFiches-auto.fr records cases on the Duster I where the ABS, ESP and handbrake warning lights come on intermittently for no apparent reason, and others where the fuel gauge shows a wrong level, especially when stopping on a slope.
  112. 112Low severityFrequency: OccasionalMercedes-Benz CLA C117Electronics faults: Parktronic parking sensors and ABS warningsThis is the most repeated non-mechanical complaint: according to the reports on fiches-auto.fr, 17 of 103 cases cite electronics and sensors, with warning lights, unstable Parktronic sensors and ABS warnings.
  113. 113Low severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot 1007Door contact faults and ABS/ESP warnings on the Peugeot 1007On the 1007, faulty door contacts cause knock-on failures of several functions and ESP/ASR warnings, according to more than 10 electronics mentions out of 86 reports on fiches-auto.fr. No public recall is on record.
  114. 114Low severityFrequency: RareCitroën C6ABS sensor failure on the Citroën C6According to fiches-auto.fr, 9 of 151 C6 owner reports cite ABS sensor failures, with repairs of around €400 per case.
  115. 115Low severityFrequency: RareSeat Toledo IIIInstrument cluster fault with ABS and airbag warning lights onA repair portal documents instrument cluster faults on the Toledo III: ABS or airbag warning lights stuck on without a mechanical fault, caused by loss of communication over the CAN bus or by dried-out capacitors, and the cluster resetting or switching off. It is a single commercial source with no frequency figures.

ABS and stability control: compare prices in shops

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Problems with the ABS and ESP by make

Problems with the ABS and ESP in your car

3 cars have several documented faults with the ABS and ESP. Choose yours to see only the ones that affect them, by engine and by year.

Hyundai 1
Iveco 1
Seat 1

How much it costs to repair a fault with the ABS and ESP

Sorted from the most expensive repair to the cheapest. Prices in Spain including VAT (parts and labour); what each figure includes is on its page.

How we calculate costs · The most expensive repairs across all engines

OBD fault codes with the ABS and ESP

The codes the ECU usually stores when this part fails: what they mean, causes and what to check.

Frequently asked questions

Which cars have problems with the ABS and ESP?

Among those we have analysed: Hyundai Tucson III (fire risk from the ABS control module (HECU)), Kia Sportage IV (short circuit in the ABS/ESP unit with fire risk), Opel Corsa F (brake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP from the EBS valve block (2024 production)), Peugeot 2008 II (reduced braking effectiveness from an HBC electronic fault (2023 production)), Peugeot 208 II (brake fluid leak and loss of ABS/ESP due to the EBS valve block (2024 production)), Hyundai Santa Fe III (short circuit in the ABS/ESP module of Santa Fes built up to October 2014), Audi e-tron (electromechanical brake booster failure and corrosion of the brake pressure unit (ABS/ESC)) and Citroën C4 III (internal brake fluid leak from the EBS valve block (built May-June 2024)). In total, 112 cars with documented faults with the ABS and ESP.

How much does it cost to repair a fault with the ABS and ESP?

It depends a lot on the engine or car. At an independent garage, from €200 to €2,100; at a dealer, from €0 to €600, including VAT, based on the 5 faults with a documented cost. The most expensive is ABS/DSC module failure (BMW Serie 1 E87).

What symptoms does a fault with the ABS and ESP cause?

The most frequently cited in the documented faults: abs or esp warning light on, esp warning light on or flashing, intermittent electronic warnings or sensor faults, hard brake pedal or loss of brake assistance, brake fluid leak and automatic emergency braking activates for no reason.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Problemas del Xc90 | Fallos y averías más frecuentesTotal Renting · Other source · consulted 5 October 2026 · in Spanish
  2. Fiabilité BMW Série 1 (2004-2011): pannes et avis de propriétairesFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. Fiabilité Peugeot 406: pannes et problèmesFiches-auto.fr · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in French
  4. Peugeot 406 common problems, issues and reliabilityBreakerLink · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026
  5. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: llamadas a revisióncar-recalls.eu · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in Spanish
  6. VW Caddy III (2K) | Typische Probleme & SchwachstellenGebrauchtwagenberater.de · Motoring press · published 21 April 2023 · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German