To ensure your ABS functions correctly, you need an exact-fit sensor ring. This page gathers ABS rings specifically for the front-wheel-drive Volvo S40 1.6 saloon. Select your car's...
Maintaining the braking system on your Volvo S40 1.6 is vital for both safety and driving comfort. The ABS ring, also known as an ABS reluctor ring or impulse ring, is a small but fundamental part of the vehicle's anti-lock braking system. For the Volvo S40 1.6 in particular, it is crucial that the component has the exact correct specifications to communicate properly with the car's control unit. As this model regularly operates in European conditions, the ABS ring is exposed to road salt, moisture and grit, which over time can lead to corrosion and cracking. When an ABS ring fractures, the system stops functioning properly, which can result in unsafe braking characteristics on slippery roads.
Here at CVJoint24 you will find ABS rings developed specifically to meet the demands of the Volvo S40 1.6. We understand the importance of getting the right part first time, so we have tailored our range to cover the variations found across the model series. By choosing a quality-assured product, you ensure that your vehicle's safety system regains its full functionality without complicated modifications during fitting.
The ABS ring on a Volvo S40 1.6 functions as part of a magnetic sensor system. It is mounted on the CV joint and rotates at the same speed as the wheel. An ABS sensor is positioned directly next to the ring and reads the teeth on the reluctor ring. This information is then sent to the car's ABS control unit, which calculates wheel speed. If the control unit detects that a wheel is about to lock up during braking, it modulates brake pressure to preserve steering control.
For the Volvo S40 1.6, the precision of these signals is absolutely crucial. If the ring is damaged, cracked or clogged with rust, the signal becomes weak or inaccurate. This can cause the ABS system to enter fail-safe mode or trigger when not needed, creating a jerky and uncomfortable pedal feel. Understanding this function helps you as an owner realise why such a small component can have such a major effect on the car's behaviour on the road.
The most common sign that an ABS ring has failed on your Volvo S40 1.6 is the ABS warning light illuminating on the dashboard. This often happens because the control unit loses contact with one of the sensors due to a cracked ring. Another very typical symptom is the ABS kicking in under normal, gentle braking on dry tarmac just before the car comes to a complete halt. You may feel an unexpected pulsation or vibration through the brake pedal.
Because the ABS ring on the Volvo S40 1.6 is typically made of steel, corrosion can form underneath it and cause it to expand until it splits. A split ring alters the gap between the teeth, confusing the sensor into reading an erratic wheel speed. If you hear a faint clicking noise from the wheel arch at low speeds, this can also indicate that a cracked ring is striking the sensor, requiring prompt inspection to avoid damaging the ABS sensor itself.
When purchasing a replacement ABS ring for your Volvo S40 1.6, it is important to check the tooth count and the ring's dimensions. Even with the specific 1.6 engine, driveline specifications can vary depending on the model year and chassis number. The most reliable way to find the right part is to filter by your car's exact make, model and engine variant in our catalogue. This displays only the components verified for your vehicle's specification, minimising the risk of ordering the wrong part.
Always check whether your car uses ABS rings front and rear, as they often differ in size and tooth count. On the Volvo S40 1.6, it is usually the front rings that suffer the heaviest wear. If you are unsure, you can also count the teeth on the old ring before ordering. We recommend choosing a ring with high corrosion resistance to maximise its service life in harsh European winters. Investing in the correct component from the start saves both time and labour at the garage.
You may also wish to check these related pages for the same vehicle when working on the ABS ring:
When one drivetrain component shows signs of wear, nearby parts on the same car often require attention as well. By comparing these exact pages for the Volvo S40 1.6, it becomes easier to identify whether the issue lies with the ABS ring itself or another part of the driveline.
This is especially true for models where vibrations, play and strange noises can transfer between interconnected parts of the drivetrain. A quick check of related categories reduces the risk of replacing one correct part while overlooking an adjacent component that causes the same symptom.
When replacing an ABS ring on your Volvo S40 1.6, it is an ideal opportunity to inspect other drivetrain components. Because the ABS ring is pressed onto the outer CV joint, you should inspect the condition of your outer CV joint thoroughly. If the CV boot is split or the joint clicks on full steering lock, it may be more economical to replace the complete joint, which often comes with a new ABS ring pre-installed.
Here are the key areas to check on your Volvo S40 1.6:
CVJoint24 is your dedicated specialist for drivetrain and power transmission components. As an international shop backed by a Swedish driveline specialist, we have in-depth technical knowledge of specific models such as the Volvo S40 1.6. We do not just supply parts; we offer peace of mind through our fitment guarantee, ensuring that the part you order matches your car. Our focus on quality means we only stock products designed to withstand demanding road conditions.
When you buy from us, you get fast support and specialist expertise that general car-parts retailers often lack. With efficient dispatch from our Swedish warehouse across the EU, your car can be back on the road in no time. We always aim to get the right part delivered straight to your door without fuss. Choose a specialist who understands your car's drivetrain inside out – choose CVJoint24 for your next ABS ring.
This is usually caused by a cracked or corroded ABS ring, or alternatively a faulty ABS sensor. A cracked ring sends incorrect signals to the car's computer, which triggers the warning light.
Yes, on most Volvo S40 1.6 models you can replace just the ABS ring without having to replace the entire CV joint, provided the CV joint itself is otherwise in good condition.
The number of teeth can vary depending on the model year. The most reliable approach is to select your specific car's make, model and engine variant in our search filter to find the exact tooth count required.
It is not strictly necessary, but as both sides are exposed to the same wear and corrosion, it is recommended to inspect both sides while carrying out the repair.
The car's anti-lock braking system will not function properly, increasing the risk of the wheels locking up under hard braking. In addition, the car will fail its annual roadworthiness inspection (MOT) with the ABS light illuminated.
No, there are differences across various engine options and model years. Always filter by your car's make, model and engine to ensure the correct fit for your specific 1.6 variant.