This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a rear ABS wheel speed sensor on a 2021-2024 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear ABS wheel speed sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• ABS sensor mounting bolt × 1 — M6 bolt - reuse if undamaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of both front wheels
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
4. Raise the rear of the vehicle and support securely on jack stands rated for the vehicle weight
5. Remove the rear wheel on the side requiring sensor replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the ABS wheel speed sensor
   The rear ABS wheel speed sensor is mounted on the rear axle housing near the brake backing plate or caliper bracket. Identify the sensor body and trace the wiring harness back to the electrical connector.
2. 2

   Disconnect the sensor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector along the wiring harness, typically secured to the frame or axle housing. Press the locking tab and disconnect the connector. Note the routing of the wire for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Remove wiring harness clips and retainers
   Release any clips, zip ties, or retainers securing the sensor wiring harness to the axle, brake line, or frame. Use a flat head screwdriver or trim tool if necessary to release push-pin style retainers. Keep track of all fasteners for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove the ABS sensor mounting bolt
   Using an 8mm socket or hex bit, remove the single bolt securing the ABS sensor to the axle housing or knuckle. If the bolt is corroded, apply penetrating oil and allow it to soak before removal. Keep the bolt if it is in good condition for reuse.
5. 5

   Extract the ABS sensor from the mounting bore
   Carefully pull the sensor straight out of the mounting bore in the axle housing. If the sensor is stuck due to corrosion, gently rotate it while pulling. Avoid prying against the sensor body or housing to prevent damage to the mounting bore.
6. 6

   Clean the sensor mounting bore and tone ring
   Use a wire brush to clean the sensor mounting bore in the axle housing, removing any rust, dirt, or debris. Inspect the tone ring (toothed reluctor ring) on the axle shaft for damage, cracks, or missing teeth. Clean the tone ring surface with a wire brush if dirty.
7. 7

   Prepare and install the new ABS sensor
   Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the O-ring on the new sensor if equipped. Insert the new sensor straight into the mounting bore, ensuring it seats fully against the housing. The sensor tip should be positioned close to the tone ring without touching it.
8. 8

   Install and torque the sensor mounting bolt
   Thread the sensor mounting bolt by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten the ABS sensor bolt to the specified torque of 10.0 Nm (7.0 lb-ft). Do not exceed this value as overtightening can crack the sensor housing.
   Torque spec

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

   Route and secure the wiring harness
   Route the sensor wiring harness along the original path, ensuring it is away from moving components, sharp edges, and heat sources. Reinstall all original clips and retainers. Use new cable ties if the originals were damaged during removal. Ensure the wiring has adequate slack and will not be pulled tight during suspension travel.
10. 10

    Reconnect the electrical connector
    Connect the sensor electrical connector to the vehicle harness, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connection to verify it is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall the rear wheel
    Mount the rear wheel onto the hub and thread the lug nuts by hand. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to snug, then lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground to prevent wheel rotation.
12. 12

    Torque wheel lug nuts and lower vehicle
    Using a torque wrench, tighten the wheel lug nuts to 156.0 Nm (115.0 lb-ft) in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Fully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure the sensor wiring is properly routed and secured with all clips and retainers installed
2. Verify the electrical connector is fully seated and locked
3. Double-check that all tools and parts have been removed from the work area

Verification

• Start the engine and verify the ABS warning light illuminates briefly during the bulb check, then turns off
• If the ABS light remains on, use a scan tool to check for fault codes related to the rear wheel speed sensor
• Perform a test drive at low speed (5-10 mph) in a safe area and apply the brakes to verify the ABS system does not activate inappropriately
• Monitor for ABS warning light illumination during normal driving conditions
• If equipped with a scan tool, verify the rear wheel speed sensor is providing a signal and reading matches the opposite side sensor during vehicle movement

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