Rear Right ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement — 2006–2012 Lexus IS250 2.5L RWD

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Site author: Thomas M · Updated October 20, 2026 · Sources & corrections

A faulty rear-right ABS wheel speed sensor on a 2006–2012 Lexus IS250 2.5L RWD sedan can accompany ABS, VSC or traction-control warnings and an erratic right-rear wheel-speed reading. Earlier systems may identify that circuit with C0210/33; a 2009 IS250 service chart uses C1403 for a rear-right sensor malfunction. The code identifies a diagnostic path, not an automatic instruction to buy a sensor. Check the connector, wiring, mounting and hub encoder before replacing the part.

Skill level
Intermediate: simple access, ABS diagnosis required
Time estimate
1–2 hours after diagnosis; corrosion can add time
Parts scope
One rear-right sensor; hub and wiring faults are separate
Silver 2007 Lexus IS250 photographed in New York City, shown as a vehicle reference
2007 Lexus IS250 exterior reference; the photograph does not establish drivetrain or sensor fitment. Photo: Kentaro Matsui, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

What the rear wheel speed sensor does

The ABS controller uses wheel-speed information to recognize wheel slip and support braking and stability functions. On this IS250 system, an electronic magnetic sensor reads the encoder incorporated into the wheel-bearing/hub assembly. A failed bearing encoder, damaged harness or poorly seated sensor can therefore produce a symptom that resembles a failed sensor. This part is separate from a transmission speed sensor and from the tire-pressure monitoring system.

Diagnose the warning before ordering

Use a scanner that communicates with the ABS/skid-control module. Save all codes and available operating information before clearing anything. A basic engine-code reader can report no engine faults while an ABS fault remains. Check the exact code description for the vehicle year and brake-control configuration.

FindingWhat to check next
Right-rear reading drops out while other wheels agreeInspect the right-rear connector and exposed wiring, then the sensor seat and hub encoder. Compare data during a controlled straight-line test, allowing for differences while turning.
Warning appeared after wheel-bearing or suspension workLook for disconnected or stretched wiring, a damaged sensor, and a hub/encoder problem before buying another part.
Bearing noise, looseness or visible damageDiagnose the bearing and encoder together. Replacing this separate sensor will not repair a damaged hub.
Multiple warning lights or several unrelated codesInvestigate the complete fault pattern and supply-voltage issues instead of treating every warning as a sensor failure.

With the ignition off, inspect the connector for moisture, corrosion, bent terminals and a broken lock. Follow the harness for rubbing or tension. Do not pull on the wires or force a probe into a terminal. This is an electronic magnetic sensor, so a generic resistance test intended for a passive coil sensor is not a reliable verdict. Circuit testing needs the correct wiring diagram and test method.

Featured replacement sensor

A-Premium ABS0050 — rear right

The supplied listing is ASIN B01IA3ON5Q, one rear-right ABS wheel speed sensor. Listed interchange references include 89545-30070 / 8954530070 and ALS1809. “Passenger side” means the right side on a left-hand-drive vehicle; always order by physical right/rear position.

Treat this as a sensor purchase. Do not assume it includes a wheel hub, a complete vehicle harness, replacement mounting hardware or connector repairs. Match the mounting flange, tip length, connector keying and VIN application before installation.

Check the rear-right sensor and current price

Vehicle compatibility and purchasing checks

The manufacturer lists the following Lexus applications for this sensor. These are catalog year ranges, subject to the vehicle’s market, production date and exact specification. The installation overview below focuses on the IS250 RWD sedan; it is not an LS, hybrid, LFA, convertible or AWD repair procedure.

Lexus modelCatalog model yearsApplication check
IS2502006–2012This guide: 2.5L 4GR-FSE, RWD sedan. Confirm VIN and connector.
IS3502006–2012Catalog application; use its own service procedure.
IS F2008–2014Catalog application; confirm exact vehicle.
GS3002005–2006Market/build-date check especially important for 2005.
GS3502007–2011Catalog application; confirm exact vehicle.
GS4302005–2007Market/build-date check especially important for 2005.
GS450h2007–2011Hybrid application; this IS250 procedure does not cover it.
GS4602008–2011Catalog application; use its own service procedure.
LS4602007–2014Catalog application; use its own service procedure.
LS600h2008–2014Hybrid application; this IS250 procedure does not cover it.
LFA2012Specialist application; this procedure does not cover it.

The catalog does not give a complete engine, transmission and trim breakdown for every row. Check the VIN in a current catalog and compare the original sensor. The 2005 GS listings especially require market/build-date confirmation; do not assume that a broad international catalog range identifies a U.S. model year. An OEM catalog may show a wider range for its own part, which does not expand the aftermarket listing’s coverage.

Safety and planning

Stop if braking is abnormal. A red brake warning, fluid leak, sinking pedal or significant bearing looseness needs diagnosis before driving. Do not test ABS by deliberately making an emergency stop in traffic.

Work on solid, level ground. Use rated lifting equipment, positive wheel chocking and properly seated jack stands. Never work under a vehicle held only by a hydraulic jack, and never run the drivetrain while the car is on stands. Keep the ignition off while unplugging the sensor. Wear eye protection and let hot brakes cool.

Arrange access to the ABS factory Signal Check/Test Mode function before starting. If your scanner cannot perform it, include a qualified shop’s final signal check in the repair plan.

Tools and supplies

Existing suitable equipment is fine. Match drive sizes, torque ranges, lift attachments and vehicle coverage instead of buying an entire kit solely for this sensor.

Tool or SupplyExact ProductProduct LinkPurpose and Selection Check
Floor jack — requiredARCAN A20003, 3-ton low-profile jackView ARCAN floor jackCheck lifting reach, clearance and capacity; a jack lifts the car but cannot be its only support.
Jack stands — requiredBIG RED T43002A, 3-ton double-locking pairView stand pairUse a matched pair and the manufacturer’s rated setup. Provide suitable grooved rubber cradles for the reinforced sill supports.
Wheel chocks — requiredFasmov solid-rubber chocks, two-pack with handlesView rubber chocksProvide enough chocks to secure the wheels remaining on the ground throughout lifting and support.
Socket set — requiredTEKTON SKT15311, 3/8-inch-drive 73-piece SAE/metric setView socket setIncludes the 10 mm and 21 mm sizes used for the sensor bolt and factory wheel nuts. Check any aftermarket wheel nuts separately.
Sensor torque wrench — requiredTEKTON TRQ50402, 1/4-inch drive, 20–200 in-lbView inch-pound wrenchThe small sensor bolt needs 75 in-lb. This range includes it; the wheel wrench below does not.
Matching 10 mm socket — requiredTEKTON SID03110, 1/4-inch-drive deep 6-point impact socketView 1/4-drive 10 mm socketFits the sensor torque wrench directly. Use by hand; confirm straight access before tightening.
Wheel torque wrench — requiredTEKTON TRQ51402, 3/8-inch drive, 10–100 ft-lbView wheel torque wrenchUse with the 3/8-drive 21 mm socket for the factory 76 ft-lb wheel-nut specification.
ABS diagnosis — required capabilityAutel MaxiCOM MK808S all-system diagnostic tabletView MK808S scannerConfirm your VIN’s ABS module and four-wheel live data coverage. Engine-only OBD live data is insufficient. Factory Signal Check support must be checked separately.
Connector assistance — optionalTEKTON PNH90403, five-piece blunt pick and hook setView blunt pick setHelp release a stubborn latch gently. Keep metal tips out of terminal cavities and away from sealing surfaces.
Eye protection — requiredDEWALT DPG82 Concealer safety gogglesView safety gogglesWear while working around falling grit and wheel-well debris.
Work gloves — recommendedMechanix Wear Original, black, large, MG-05-010View work glovesThis link selects large; choose a secure fit. These are mechanical work gloves, not electrical or chemical protection.
Clean cloth — as neededAmazon Basics 16 × 12-inch microfiber cloths, 24-packView microfiber clothsUse a clean lint-free cloth for exterior dirt. Keep fibers, oil and grit away from the sensing tip and mounting bore.
Factory signal check — required accessToyota/Lexus-capable diagnostic setup with the correct ABS Signal Check/Test Mode utilityUse existing suitable equipment or a qualified Lexus/Toyota shopConfirm the utility for the exact year and VDIM configuration before starting. A general scanner’s feature list does not establish this capability.
Support cradles; damaged hardware — application-specificCorrect grooved stand attachments; VIN-matched sensor bolt, connector lock or harness clips if damagedSelect for the actual stands and vehicleDo not improvise supports or substitute an arbitrary bolt. Inspect existing hardware before ordering replacements.

DIY versus professional cost

These are U.S. planning estimates for one accessible rear sensor, not live product prices or guaranteed quotes. They exclude hub replacement, broken-bolt extraction, extensive wiring repairs, tax and towing.

ExpenseDIY estimateProfessional estimate
Sensor$25–$90$40–$160, depending on part choice and markup
Consumables / small hardware$0–$15 if existing hardware is soundUsually included or itemized separately
Diagnosis and final signal checkExisting equipment, or budget for shop assistanceApproximately $100–$220
Replacement laborYour time; allow 1–2 hours after diagnosisApproximately $100–$220
Estimated job total$25–$105 with suitable tools and diagnostic access already availableApproximately $240–$600 before tax/extra repairs
Tools not already ownedAllow roughly $250–$600 for lifting/hand/torque tools; an advanced scanner can add several hundred dollarsNormally included in the labor charge

Buying all the diagnostic and lifting equipment can cost more than having this single repair completed professionally. Borrowing suitable tools or paying for diagnosis first can prevent an unnecessary sensor purchase.

Step-by-step replacement overview

This overview is for the rear-right sensor on the 2006–2012 IS250 2.5L RWD sedan with the matching single-bolt mounting arrangement. Identify the right side from the driver’s seated position. Photograph the connector and cable routing before disturbing them.

1. Prepare and support the car

Save the ABS diagnostic information first. Park on level concrete, select Park for an automatic or reverse for a manual, apply the parking brake and switch the ignition off. Loosen the right-rear wheel nuts slightly while the tire is grounded. Use the rear central jacking location illustrated in the Lexus owner’s manual and reinforced rear sill support locations with correctly fitting grooved rubber stand attachments. Do not lift on the exhaust, suspension links or a thin differential cover.

Follow the factory chocking sequence: front-wheel chocks prevent forward movement as the rear is raised; once supported, block both directions at the grounded wheels. Lower the vehicle securely onto a matched pair of stands, confirm all cradles and feet are seated, and check stability from outside before entering the wheel well. Remove the right-rear wheel.

2. Disconnect and remove the old sensor

Locate the sensor at the rear hub/carrier and trace its connector. Clean loose dirt from the surrounding area before opening the connection. Release the latch and pull the connector housings apart without loading the wires. Remove the single mounting bolt with the correctly fitting 10 mm socket, then withdraw the sensor carefully.

Do not hammer the sensor, pry against the encoder or let debris enter the opening. If corrosion locks the sensor in place, stop before snapping it off in the carrier. Broken-sensor extraction or bearing removal is a separate repair and can turn a small job into a much larger one.

3. Inspect the mounting area and replacement

Compare old and new parts side by side. Inspect the connector, mounting flange and sensing end. A cracked, chipped, dented or dropped sensor should not be installed. Remove loose exterior contamination with a clean cloth, keeping dirt and fibers out of the bore. Investigate a damaged seat, bearing problem or oily/contaminated sensing area before reassembly.

The flange must sit fully against its mounting surface. Never use the retaining bolt to pull a reluctant sensor into position. Do not add washers to change its height, coat its tip with grease, or grind material away to make a mismatched part fit.

4. Install and reconnect

Seat the correct sensor gently and start the sound, correct mounting bolt by hand. Tighten it to 8.5 N·m (75 in-lb) with the inch-pound torque wrench. This is a small fastener: 75 ft-lb would be a serious error. Reconnect the plug until its lock engages and restore the original wire routing and retainers. Keep the wiring clear of the tire, brake rotor and moving suspension.

5. Refit the wheel

Clean the wheel-to-hub mating surfaces and install the wheel with all nuts started by hand. Snug them evenly in a crossing pattern. Raise the vehicle just enough to remove the stands; follow the factory lowering/chocking sequence, with chocks behind the front wheels to prevent rearward movement. Lower slowly with everyone clear. Tighten the factory wheel nuts in a crossing pattern to 103 N·m (76 ft-lb). Use the wheel torque wrench, not an impact tool, for final tightening.

Final ABS checks

Check that the connector is locked, the wiring is supported and the sensor is flush. With the vehicle fully on the ground, connect the diagnostic tool and inspect the ABS system again. Clear recorded repair-related codes only after saving them and correcting the fault.

Perform the factory ABS Signal Check/Test Mode using the diagnostic utility appropriate to the exact vehicle and VDIM configuration. Follow its guided stationary checks and driving sequence in a suitable controlled area; the procedures differ, so do not substitute a universal speed or turning maneuver. ABS operation can be unavailable during an incomplete test. Have a qualified shop perform this stage if the required utility or safe test area is unavailable.

Read and save the test results before exiting Test Mode: switching the ignition off can erase signal-check codes. Exit according to the utility instructions, then recheck normal-mode ABS codes and warning lights. Confirm that all four wheel-speed readings behave plausibly during a gentle straight-line drive, with a passenger operating the scanner or with data recorded for later review. The driver must not watch the scanner while driving.

A warning that disappears at startup is not proof of a successful repair. If the right-rear reading still drops out, return to the wiring, seating and hub-encoder diagnosis. Do not keep replacing sensors or clear the warning repeatedly without finding the cause.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Buying the left-rear or front sensor because a marketplace title uses ambiguous “passenger” wording.
  • Assuming an engine-only scan tool can diagnose ABS wheel-speed data.
  • Confusing inch-pounds with foot-pounds on the mounting bolt.
  • Breaking the connector latch, stretching wiring or leaving clips detached.
  • Using sensor replacement to mask a failed hub encoder or damaged bearing.
  • Skipping the factory signal check or confusing ABS testing with TPMS registration.

Frequently asked questions

Does the sensor need programming?

The replacement procedure calls for a sensor-signal inspection, not coding a new sensor ID like a tire-pressure transmitter. That does not remove the need for the correct ABS Test Mode checks. Avoid unrelated reset or calibration functions unless the vehicle’s diagnostic procedure calls for them.

Must both rear sensors be replaced?

This listing contains one right-rear sensor. Diagnose each side independently; there is no reason to replace a working left sensor simply because the right side has failed.

Will cleaning solve the warning?

External contamination or poor seating may explain a fault, but cleaning will not repair internal damage, an open wire or a faulty encoder. Inspect and test before deciding whether to reuse or replace a component.

Do I need to remove the hub, axle nut or brake hydraulics?

The normal separate-sensor procedure uses wheel removal, the electrical connection and one sensor bolt. It does not require opening brake hydraulics, bleeding brakes or removing the axle nut. Those operations belong to a different repair if additional damage is found.

Sources and further reading

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