A Guide to the Vehicle Speed Sensor for the 2011-2017 Buick Regal
If your ABS light is on and your speedometer is acting up, your Regal likely needs a new speed sensor.
- The part you need to fix speedometer and ABS light issues is the ABS Wheel Speed Sensor, not a transmission sensor.
- A bad sensor will almost always trigger both the ABS and Traction Control (StabiliTrak) warning lights.
- Before replacing, consider cleaning the sensor, as a technical service bulletin suggests debris can cause problems.
- OEM (ACDelco) and OE-equivalent (Delphi) parts are high-quality and competitively priced for this repair.
Is Your Regal Showing Signs of a Bad Speed Sensor?
When a wheel speed sensor starts to fail on your Buick Regal, it can cause several problems at once. Because the sensor provides data to many different systems, you will likely see more than just one warning light on your dashboard. The signs are usually very clear and hard to ignore.
Key Failure Symptoms:
- Warning Lights: The most common sign is seeing the ABS and Traction Control (or StabiliTrak) warning lights turn on. 🎬 Watch: How to fix ABS, Traction Control, and Stabilitrak lights. A Check Engine Light may also appear.
- Speedometer Problems: Your speedometer might stop working completely, jump around erratically, or show a speed that is clearly wrong.
- Shifting Issues: The automatic transmission may shift hard, late, or at the wrong times because it isn't getting an accurate speed reading.
- Cruise Control Failure: Your cruise control will not engage if the car cannot determine a steady vehicle speed.
- Braking Changes: You might feel a pulsation in the brake pedal, or more likely, the ABS system will just shut off completely as a safety measure. Your normal brakes will still work, but you won't have the anti-lock feature in an emergency stop.
A Note on Recalls and Bulletins
There have been no safety recalls issued for the wheel speed sensors on the 2011-2017 Buick Regal. However, Buick did release a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #17-NA-047) for technicians. It explains that issues can sometimes be caused by dirt or debris on the sensor. It may be worth cleaning the sensor and the area around it before replacing the part.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Speed Sensor
For your Regal, the 'Vehicle Speed Sensor' is the ABS Wheel Speed Sensor. When shopping for a replacement, you have several good options. It's important to know that not all aftermarket parts are created equal, but for this specific part, even affordable options are often reliable.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1 (OEM & OE Equivalent): ACDelco is the original GM part and is surprisingly affordable. Delphi is a trusted brand that makes original parts for many car manufacturers, including GM. Choosing either of these is a guaranteed fit and high-quality repair.
- Tier 2 (High-Quality Aftermarket): Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP) and Holstein have a strong reputation. They build parts to meet or exceed original specifications and are trusted by many professional mechanics. Standard Ignition, in some cases, may even be a re-packaged original part.
- Tier 3 (Standard Aftermarket): Walker Products and Global Parts offer cost-effective solutions. These brands focus on providing a functional replacement that meets quality standards and can be a good choice if budget is the main concern.
Pro Tip: Check the Part Number
The front and rear wheel speed sensors on your Regal may have different part numbers. Always confirm that the part you are buying is correct for your vehicle's specific position (e.g., front left, rear right) to avoid installation problems.
Cost of Replacing a Buick Regal Speed Sensor
Replacing a wheel speed sensor is not an expensive repair. The parts are affordable, and the labor is straightforward for a professional or an experienced DIYer.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Part (ACDelco) | $20 - $45 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $34 - $53 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
| Total Professional Repair | $120 - $233 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the wheel speed sensor myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-friendly job for most people. It requires safely lifting the car, removing the wheel, and taking out a single bolt that holds the sensor in place. The main challenge can be rust making the bolt or sensor difficult to remove.
What is the difference between an input/output sensor and a wheel speed sensor?
Your transmission has internal input and output speed sensors that help it shift smoothly. However, the sensor that controls your speedometer and ABS system is the wheel speed sensor located at the wheel hub. The symptoms described in this article point to a bad wheel speed sensor.
Will a bad speed sensor cause my car to go into 'limp mode'?
In some cases, yes. If the transmission control module loses a reliable speed signal, it can cause significant shifting problems or even put the vehicle into a 'limp mode' with limited gear availability to prevent further damage.
Do I need to replace all four sensors at once?
No. You only need to replace the sensor that has failed. A mechanic can use a diagnostic scan tool to read the specific trouble codes (like P0502) and identify which wheel is reporting the fault.
🎬 Watch: How to test a wheel speed sensor yourself.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 23483146 13470635 23483153 12841559 23483156
The part is an active magnetic sensor that reads the rotation of a toothed reluctor ring on the wheel bearing/hub assembly. It communicates this data to the ABS control module and ECM. For the 2011-2017 Regal, this part is more accurately called an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Regal: