Replace the rear ABS wheel speed sensor on a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV to restore proper anti-lock braking system functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear ABS wheel speed sensor × 1 — GM 23486766 or equivalent
• ABS sensor bolt × 1 — Use OEM specification if not reusable

Preparation

1. Engage parking brake and place wheel chocks at front wheels
2. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on the ground
3. Raise rear of vehicle with floor jack at designated jacking point
4. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
5. Remove rear wheel completely

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the rear ABS wheel speed sensor
   The rear ABS sensor is mounted on the rear knuckle assembly near the brake backing plate. The sensor wire harness runs from the sensor along the suspension components toward the wheel well. Identify the sensor body and its electrical connector.
2. 2

   Disconnect the sensor electrical connector
   Follow the sensor wire harness to locate the electrical connector, typically secured with a clip on the frame rail or body. Press the release tab and carefully disconnect the connector. Note the routing of the wire harness for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove wire harness clips
   The sensor wire harness is secured to the suspension and body with retaining clips or brackets. Using a flat blade screwdriver or trim tool, carefully release each clip working from the connector toward the sensor. Do not pull on the wire itself.
4. 4

   Remove the ABS sensor mounting bolt
   Using a 10mm socket and ratchet, remove the single bolt securing the ABS sensor to the rear knuckle. The bolt may have corrosion or thread locker residue. Apply penetrating oil if necessary and allow to soak before attempting removal.
   ⚠Do not use excessive force - the sensor body can break if the bolt is seized and you pull too hard
5. 5

   Extract the ABS sensor from knuckle
   Carefully pull the sensor straight out from the knuckle bore. The sensor may be held by corrosion or magnetic attraction to the tone ring. Gently wiggle and rotate while pulling if necessary. Do not pry against the sensor body as it is fragile.
6. 6

   Clean the sensor mounting bore
   Use a wire brush to clean the sensor mounting bore in the knuckle, removing any corrosion, debris, or old sensor material. Clean the mounting surface around the bore as well. Spray with electrical contact cleaner and wipe dry. Inspect the tone ring on the hub for damage or missing teeth.
   ⚠Do not allow metal debris to enter the bore or contact the tone ring - this will cause false ABS signals
7. 7

   Prepare the new ABS sensor
   Remove the new sensor from packaging. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the O-ring on the sensor body (if equipped) to ease installation and prevent corrosion. Do not apply grease to the sensor tip itself.
8. 8

   Install the new ABS sensor
   Carefully insert the new sensor straight into the knuckle bore, ensuring it seats fully against the mounting surface. The sensor should slide in smoothly without force. Align the mounting hole and start the bolt by hand to prevent cross-threading.
   ⚠Ensure proper sensor-to-tone ring air gap by seating sensor completely before tightening - incorrect gap will cause ABS faults
   Torque spec

   ABS Sensor Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Torque the ABS sensor bolt
   Using a torque wrench and 10mm socket, tighten the ABS sensor mounting bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can crack the sensor body or strip the aluminum knuckle threads.
   Torque spec

   ABS Sensor Bolt10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Route and secure the wire harness
    Route the sensor wire harness along the original path, ensuring it does not contact the CV axle, brake components, or suspension travel areas. Secure all wire harness clips and brackets in their original positions. Ensure no tension or sharp bends in the wire.
11. 11

    Connect the electrical connector
    Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals if desired for corrosion protection. Connect the sensor connector to the vehicle harness connector until it clicks securely. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged.
12. 12

    Reinstall the rear wheel
    Mount the rear wheel onto the hub, ensuring it seats properly against the hub face. Start all lug nuts by hand, then tighten in a star pattern using a torque wrench to specification.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts136 Nm (100 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Lower the vehicle from jack stands and remove supports
2. Perform final torque check on wheel lug nuts with vehicle on ground using star pattern
3. Clear any ABS fault codes from the system using a diagnostic scan tool if available

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify the ABS warning light illuminates briefly during self-test then extinguishes
• If ABS light remains on, use a scan tool to verify the new sensor is reporting a signal and check for fault codes
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed (5-10 mph) in a safe area and verify ABS light does not illuminate
• Monitor ABS system for proper operation during normal driving - sensor should provide consistent wheel speed data

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