The ABS wheel speed sensor on 2012-2019 Subaru Impreza models can fail prematurely, leading to a host of warning lights and a disabled ABS system.
Reviewed by SubaruReview Editorial Team · Last reviewed 2026-05-15 · Editorial standards
How this problem ranks against the other documented Impreza failures — cost, severity, and DIY difficulty at a glance.
| Problem | Years | Severity | Repair cost | DIY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheel Speed Sensor Failure (this page) | 2012-2019 | Major | $250–$450 | 3/5 |
| Subaru Impreza Premature Wheel Bearing Failure Guides (2017-2024) | 2017-2024 | Major | $450–$1,100 | 3/5 |
This is one of several documented Impreza problems we track, and it fits inside the broader Reliability & Common Problems guide. If you're weighing repair against replacement, cross-check the Subaru repair-cost database and any open NHTSA recalls on your VIN before booking a shop.
The wheel speed sensor monitors the rotational speed of each wheel and sends this data to the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) control module. When a sensor fails, the ABS module loses critical input, interpreting this as an anomaly. This can lead to the disablement of the ABS, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), and cruise control systems, as well as illuminating various warning lights on the dashboard.
Often, the wheel speed sensor fails due to corrosion of the sensor body or the wiring harness, or due to physical damage from road debris. Internal electronic failures within the sensor itself are also common.
Often, the wheel speed sensor fails due to corrosion of the sensor body or the wiring harness, or due to physical damage from road debris. Internal electronic failures within the sensor itself are also common.
National average $250–$450.
Difficulty 3/5. Replacement of the faulty wheel speed sensor and inspection of the wiring harness. Clearing of stored trouble codes.
ABS warning light illuminated; Traction Control warning light illuminated; Cruise Control warning light flashing; Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) warning light illuminated; Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated (less common); Loss of ABS functionality; Erratic speedometer readings (rare)
Owners typically pay $250–$450 at an independent Subaru shop, parts and labor included. Our Subaru Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost guide breaks the job down by parts, labor hours, and where the money actually goes.
The same generation also sees Subaru Impreza Premature Wheel Bearing Failure Guides (2017-2024). Both are documented with symptoms, cost, and a permanent-fix walkthrough — see the full list in the Impreza hub.
Cross-check NHTSA campaign 23V292000, which covers 2023 Impreza – Brake Light Switch on 2023 Impreza. Recall work is free at any Subaru dealer — always run your VIN before paying for the fix.
We rate it 3/5 on our DIY scale. Confident wrenchers can tackle it in a weekend using the permanent-fix steps above. Cross-reference the reliability & common problems hub for related jobs worth bundling while you're in there.
Dig into the Problems Database to plan your next maintenance sprint, or browse every model hub for buyer's guides, generation breakdowns, and known-issue lists.