After washing my automobile, the anti lock braking (ABS) warning light illuminated indicating that I no longer have ABS. The consequence is reduced braking performance in emergency situations. In an emergency such a failure would eliminate my ability to perform avoidance maneuvers while braking which is the purpose of the ABS system. Under normal driving conditions it would significantly increase stopping distances. The manufacturer's authorized dealer representative stated that the left rear speed sensor failed and that the cost of replacement would be at my expense. The car has 64,500 miles. According to the dealership representative such drive components are warranted for the first 60,000 miles only. This system should be impervious to the effects of a garden hose rinse. The only alternative is to replace the speed sensor and hope that such a failure does not occur while I am driving.

- Philadelphia, PA, USA