The ABS warning light on your Peugeot, Citroën or DS indicates that the anti-lock braking system is no longer functioning correctly. This issue can occur on many models such as the 208, 308, 2008, or 3008.
Why does this warning light appear?
How to reset the ABS warning light?
Models affected: Peugeot 206, 208, 308, 3008, Citroën C3, C4, DS3, DS4
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What does the ABS warning light look like on Peugeot, Citroën or DS?
The ABS warning light is easily recognisable. It appears as a circle with the letters ABS surrounded by two parentheses and is usually orange in colour.
When you turn on the ignition, the ABS warning light illuminates for a few seconds and then turns off automatically.
However, if the ABS warning light remains on while driving, a malfunction has been detected.
This warning light may be associated with the message: "ABS braking system fault: have the vehicle repaired" or "ABS fault: Havec the vehicle repaired".
Why might the ABS warning light illuminate on a Peugeot, Citroën or DS?
Several faults can trigger the ABS warning light on PSA group models such as Peugeot, Citroën or DS. This indicator shows that the anti-lock braking system has detected an anomaly and automatically deactivates to prevent incorrect operation.
Here are the most common ABS issues:
- Faulty ABS sensor: a dirty, broken, or poorly connected wheel sensor can trigger the ABS warning light.
- Damaged ABS ring: rusted or cracked, it disrupts the wheel rotation measurement.
- Electrical wiring issue: a damaged cable prevents the ABS sensors from communicating with the control unit.
- Faulty ABS module: a malfunction in the ABS module can also cause the warning light to illuminate.
A diagnosis with an OBD scanner can precisely identify which component is causing the issue before any repairs.
ABS warning light illuminated alongside other warning lights
Some indicators may appear simultaneously with the ABS warning light.
ABS warning light + brake warning light
If the ABS warning light and the brake warning light illuminate simultaneously, this generally indicates a braking system issue. This combination is more serious than just the ABS warning light and requires a quick vehicle check.
The most common causes are:
- Low brake fluid level: reduces braking efficiency and triggers the brake warning light along with the ABS warning light.
- Faulty ABS module or hydraulic system: disrupts braking management.
- Severely worn brake pads or discs: wear on the braking system can also activate these warning lights.
ABS warning light + tyre pressure warning light
If the ABS warning light and the tyre pressure warning light illuminate simultaneously, this generally indicates an issue related to tyre pressure monitoring or wheel sensors.
The most common causes are:
- Faulty wheel sensor: an ABS sensor may send incorrect information to the control unit, disrupting the tyre monitoring system.
- Loss of tyre pressure: an under-inflated tyre can activate the pressure warning light and disrupt sensors linked to the ABS.
- TPMS system issue: a fault in the tyre pressure monitoring system can trigger the pressure warning light alongside the ABS warning light.
ABS warning light + engine warning light
If the ABS warning light and the engine warning light illuminate simultaneously, this may indicate an electronic fault detected by the vehicle's control unit. On Peugeot, Citroën or DS models, several systems are interconnected, which can cause these warning lights to illuminate simultaneously in the event of an anomaly.
The most common causes are:
- Sensor issue: a faulty sensor may send incorrect information to the control unit.
- Electronic fault: an anomaly in the electrical system can disrupt several vehicle systems.
- Engine anomaly detected by the control unit: the control unit may activate the engine warning light and disable certain driving aids such as ABS.
ABS warning light + ESP warning light
If the ABS warning light and the ESP warning light illuminate simultaneously, this generally indicates that the stability control system is deactivated. On Peugeot, Citroën or DS vehicles, the ESP uses the ABS system's wheel sensors to correct the vehicle's trajectory. In the event of a fault, both systems may deactivate simultaneously.
The most common causes are:
- Faulty ABS sensor: incorrect wheel speed information can deactivate both ABS and ESP.
- Faulty steering angle sensor: this sensor allows the stability system to know the vehicle's direction.
- Electronic issue: a fault in the control unit or wiring can disrupt both systems.
How to clear and reset the ABS warning light with a diagnostic scanner
Clearing the ABS warning light without a diagnostic scanner
It is possible to clear the ABS warning light without using a diagnostic scanner by checking certain braking system components.
- Check the wheel sensors
- Inspect the fuses
- Turn on your vehicle's ignition. For vehicles with keyless start, press the button for about 10 seconds without pressing the brake pedal to avoid starting the engine.
- Plug your klavkarr 310 scanner into the OBD port.
- Launch the application on your smartphone.
- Connect to your klavkarr.
- Select the brand: "Peugeot", "Citroën", "DS".
- Select the model: "206, 308, 3008…", "C3, C4…", "DS3, DS4…"
- Choose the control unit: "ECU ABS" and click "Next".
- Go to "Diagnostics" then "Fault codes".
- Click "Erase" and confirm by clicking "Ok".
They are located behind each wheel of your car. Simply check the condition of the ABS sensor, electrical cables, and connectors.
In some cases, a simple cleaning can resolve the issue.
The ABS system also has a dedicated fuse. Refer to your Peugeot, Citroën or DS manual to locate the fuse box and check the ABS fuse's location and condition.
If the fuse is blown, replacing it may sometimes be enough to turn off the ABS warning light.
Clearing the ABS warning light with an OBD diagnostic scanner
To clear the ABS warning light on your Peugeot, Citroën or DS, you can use a compatible diagnostic scanner, such as our klavkarr 310. This diagnostic tool communicates with the ABS control units of PSA group vehicles and allows you to read, analyse, and erase fault codes to turn off the warning light once the issue is resolved.
Here is the complete procedure to reset the ABS warning light:
The ABS warning light no longer appears on your dashboard.
Important: if the actual fault is not repaired, erasing the fault code will not be enough. The warning light will automatically reappear as soon as the system detects the issue again during the next start or while driving.
FAQ - Clearing the ABS warning light Peugeot - Citroën - DS
Can you drive with the ABS warning light on in a Peugeot/Citroën/DS?
You can drive with the ABS warning light on, but the anti-lock braking system will not function during emergency braking. It is recommended to diagnose the issue quickly for your safety.
Which diagnostic scanner should be used for an ABS issue in Peugeot/Citroën/DS?
The klavkarr 310 is perfectly suited for diagnosing and clearing ABS fault codes on all Peugeot/Citroën/DS models. This OBD2-compatible tool allows access to the ABS control unit and easily resets the warning light.
Can the ABS warning light turn off on its own?
If the issue is temporary (dirty sensor, loose connection, wheel blocked by dirt), the ABS warning light may disappear after a few kilometres. However, if the fault persists, it will remain illuminated until the defect is repaired and erased from the control unit.
Should you repair before clearing the ABS warning light?
Yes, it is essential to identify and repair the cause of the issue before clearing the warning light. Otherwise, the warning light will immediately reappear as the system will detect the fault again.
