So, a while back I got a little too aggressive with one of my rear ABS sensors while changing a wheel bearing. I ordered a new one from ebay. I went to install it and noticed a difference in the mounting. The sensor I removed used a single bolt for mounting. The replacement simply has a rubber grommet. See pics.




Instead of the bolt I understand that the other sensor uses some sort of clamping ring (443-927-817).

If I purchase the clamping ring to hold the new sensor in the hole, will it work? Is there something fundamentally different between the sensors, or just the mounting?

 

Not sure how the ones in the rear look cause i didnt really take notice when i changed my brakes, but i recall, my front ones look like the first picture in your post.

 

I just recently had both of my rear wheel bearings,replaced and had to take my right wheel off again,to clean off a dirty wheel sensor that got dirt,over the sensor that caused my ABS light to come on the dash.

I cleaned it off and its been fine since,the rear wheel sensor does have a bolt,that separates it from the surface of the hub,so it can read the speed of the hub.

 

Both of the parts shown are actually rear sensors for the B5 A4. Why there are different ones I have no idea. Since my facelifted '99 had the bolt down type, are the others a pre-facelift sensor? I really just want to know if I can use the other type of sensor, or if I'll have to buy another new one?

 

The newer B5's use the bolt in type of sensor. My 98.5 uses the push in type.

 

The sensors are effectively interchangeable as long as you secure them in some fashion. I trashed my non-bolt-on type sensor, got a bolt-on sensor off eBay (not knowing the difference), and used zip ties to keep it in place. Has worked fine for two years.

So, if you're stuck with the wrong sensor it will still work. Of course, if you can find the right kind of sensor, use that one.

 

Okay, thanks! That was what I figured and the response I was looking for. I'll just buy one of the clip ring things and be done with it. I got the slide in sensor for $19 shipped. The best I can find for the bolt in one is $98 + shipping!