Can You Pass an Inspection With the ABS Light On? Here’s What You Need to Know

Can You Pass Inspection With ABS Light On? is a question that many vehicle owners may have when their ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light appears on the dashboard. In most cases, the answer is no. The reason for this is that most states require vehicles to pass an emissions inspection in order to be registered and driven legally. Most emissions inspections also include a brake inspection, which requires that all vehicles’ braking systems are functioning correctly and safely. An illuminated ABS light usually indicates a problem with the braking system, which means that it will likely fail an emissions inspection.

Therefore, in order to pass an emissions inspection, it is best to have the ABS light fixed prior to taking your vehicle in for the inspection. The type of repair needed will depend on what is causing the ABS light to remain illuminated. Many auto parts stores offer free codes scans which can help you identify what needs to be fixed. Once you know what needs to be repaired, you can then take your vehicle into a qualified mechanic or dealership and have them fix the problem before taking it in for an emission inspection.

Can You Pass an Inspection with the ABS Light On?

What Does the ABS Light Indicate?

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light indicates that there is an issue with your vehicle’s braking system. The ABS light will be illuminated when there is a malfunction in the system, such as low brake fluid levels or a faulty sensor. When the ABS light is on, it means that your car’s brakes may not work properly, and you should take it to a service center as soon as possible.

Can the ABS Light Affect an Inspection?

Yes, if the ABS light is on during an inspection, then it could result in your vehicle failing its inspection. Depending on the severity of the issue and the regulations in your state, you may be required to have any necessary repairs done before you can pass inspection. Additionally, some states require that all warning lights are off before they will approve a vehicle for inspection.

Is It Possible to Pass an Inspection with the ABS Light On?

In most cases, it is possible to pass an inspection with the ABS light on; however, this will depend on several factors such as what state you live in and what type of issue is causing the light to come on. In some states, you may be able to pass inspection by having a mechanic inspect your vehicle and verify that all of your brakes are working properly. In other cases, you may need to have any necessary repairs done before you can pass inspection.

Steps to Pass an Inspection with the ABS Light On

If you want to pass an inspection with your ABS light on, there are several steps you should take:

  • Check Your Vehicle’s Repair History: The first step is to check your vehicle’s repair history so that you can identify any previous problems or issues that could be causing the light to come on.
  • Have a Professional Inspect Your Vehicle: After checking your repair history, it’s important to have a professional inspect your vehicle and check for any issues or problems that could be causing the light to come on.
  • Verify Your Vehicle’s Braking System is Working Properly: It’s also important to make sure that all of your brakes are working properly and that there are no issues or problems which could be causing them not to work correctly.
  • Have Other Repairs Completed as Necessary: If there are other repairs which need to be completed before you can pass inspection, then these should also be taken care of.


Once all necessary repairs have been made and verified by a professional inspector, then it should be possible for you to pass inspection even if your ABS light is still illuminated.

Can You Pass Inspection With ABS Light On?

The short answer is no. If you have an illuminated ABS light on your dashboard, it is an indication that there is an issue with the anti-lock braking system in your car. This means that if you take your vehicle for inspection, it will likely fail due to the ABS warning light being on.

What Causes an ABS Warning Light to Illuminate?

The ABS warning light can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty sensors, low brake fluid levels, a worn out ABS pump or even a bad wheel speed sensor. It is important to have these issues addressed as soon as possible to avoid any potential problems with braking and stability control in the future.

How Can You Diagnose a Problem With Your ABS System?

If your ABS warning light has illuminated, the first step is to get your vehicle scanned for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This can be done at most auto repair shops or with a scan tool at home. Once the DTCs are retrieved from the vehicle’s computer, you can use them to pinpoint the problem and determine what needs to be fixed. Additionally, having a professional technician inspect your vehicle can help identify other issues that may need attention as well. Depending on what is found during the inspection, you may need to consider replacing parts of your ABS system if necessary.

Why Is it Important to Fix My Car Before Passing An Inspection?

It is important to fix any issues in your car before passing an inspection because it ensures that all components are working properly and safely. Not only will this help ensure that you pass the inspection with flying colors but it will also help ensure that you are driving with vehicles that are safe and up to code. Additionally, having all components up-to-date can help prevent any potential problems down the road when it comes time for future inspections or repairs.

Can I Still Drive My Car if My ABS Warning Light Is On?

While driving with an illuminated ABS warning light is not recommended due to potential safety risks, it may still be possible depending on how severe the issue is and how much risk you’re willing to take by doing so. If there are no major issues with driving while your warning light is on then it may be okay but if there are major concerns then it’s best not to drive until repairs are made.

What Are The Risks of Driving With The ABS Warning Lights On?

When driving with an illuminated ABS warning light, there are several risks associated with doing so including decreased braking performance which could lead to crashes or other accidents due to inability of brakes responding quickly enough in emergency situations; decreased stability control which could lead to skidding or sliding; increased wear and tear on brake components due to prolonged use; and potentially more serious issues such as hydraulic failure or electrical short circuits which could lead to further damage or even fire hazards if left unchecked for too long. Therefore, when faced with an illuminated ABS warning light it is always best practice to have repairs made as soon as possible in order uphold safety standards while driving your vehicle.

Common Repairs For An Illuminated ABS Warning Lights

Common repairs for an illuminated ABS warning lights include replacing faulty sensors such as wheel speed sensors; replacing worn out pumps; bleeding brakes; flushing brake lines; checking brake fluid levels; inspecting brake pads for wear and tear; and replacing any damaged or worn out components of the anti-lock braking system such as rotors or calipers if necessary. In some cases depending on what diagnostics reveal more complex repairs may need attention such as wiring harnesses replacement or ECU reprogramming but these should only be done by professionals who specialize in automotive repair work.

FAQ & Answers

Q: Can you pass inspection with ABS light on?
A: It is possible to pass an inspection with an ABS light on, but it is not recommended. You should have a professional inspect your vehicle and have any necessary repairs completed before attempting to pass your inspection.

Q: What does the ABS warning light look like?
A: The ABS warning light typically looks like a yellow or orange circle with an exclamation point or a car skidding inside it.

Q: What causes an ABS warning light to illuminate?
A: The most common cause of an illuminated ABS warning light is a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor. Other causes can include damaged wiring or a faulty control module.

Q: Why is it important to fix my car before passing an inspection?
A: It is important to fix your vehicle before passing an inspection because the inspector will be checking for any safety issues that could affect the performance of the vehicle. If you do not fix any issues beforehand, you may fail the inspection and not be able to legally drive your vehicle until the issues are resolved.

Q: What are the risks of driving with the ABS warning lights on?
A: Driving with the ABS warning lights on can increase your risk of being involved in an accident due to reduced braking power and control when braking suddenly or on slippery surfaces. Additionally, driving without getting repairs done can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs down the line.

In conclusion, when it comes to passing an automobile inspection with the ABS light on, it depends on the specific state or country’s regulations. In some cases, a vehicle may pass the inspection if the ABS light is on and the system is functioning properly. However, in other cases, the vehicle may not pass inspection until any issues related to the ABS light have been addressed and repaired.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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