my abs light has always been on but the brakes seem fine what exactly does this light mean

 

It can indicate a low level of brake fluid in the master cylinder. Could also be a problem with the fuse for the anti-lock brake system.

 

anti lock brake system is what ABS stands for.... lol

and heres what a local mechanic told me. the abs light comes on these old ford trucks because of a little sensor on the top of the axle. its about a $40 part and about as hard as an air filter to replace.

heres my personal experience. i replaced that stupid little sensor and my abs light was still on and my abs still worked as well. weird.

 

ive heard that theres a magnetic sensor on the brakers that if the pads are wore out enough metal sticks to it and it read wrong

 

i got brand new pads and rotors idk ill check the fluid level

 

There is more to the ABS than the sensor in the rear axle. Even on the older trucks. There is the tone ring in the axle or on the rotor for 4 wheel ABS. There is the pump the ABS control module. Low fluid will not cause an ABS light. It can cause a brake light. When the ABS light is illuminated the ABS is not working. Even though he said his was. This light comes on to tell you something is wrong with the ABS.

 

just because the ABS light is on it doesn't mean you have no brakes. just try and avoid a panic stop with the light on.

 

4 wheel abs? doubtful.

 

i got rear wheel abs