3 Symptoms of a Faulty ABS Module
Your anti-lock braking system prevents dangerous stalls, but the ABS module that controls it can fail over time. Recognizing the symptoms of a faulty ABS module is key to staying safe.
This guide explains the warning signs of a module error and how to resolve it. With knowledge and preventative care, your ABS can continue to provide life-saving performance. What is an ABS module? The ABS module is a microprocessor computer that is integrated into the electrical system of all new vehicles.
This module is responsible for monitoring and operating the vehicle’s anti-lock braking system. It regulates the hydraulic pressure distributed to the brakes at both ends, preventing lock-up during panic or hard braking.
The ABS module itself relies on input from a variety of sensors to enable the various functions that it performs. The most valuable of these inputs come from individual wheel speed sensors. These sensors indicate how fast each wheel is rotating relative to one another, allowing the ABS module to detect a lock-up condition.
Your vehicle’s ABS module also performs a system self-test on every “key-on” cycle and logs any system-related trouble codes (such as DTC C1201) if necessary. Additionally, the module transfers relevant data to other vehicle control modules, such as the PCM, via the CAN-BUS communication network.
Where is the module located?
The ABS module is located in the engine compartment of most vehicles, although some vehicles may have it installed along the vehicle’s frame rails.
In most cases, the ABS module is bolted to a subsection of the engine compartment on the driver’s side, very close to the ABS block itself. In fact, on some vehicles, this module is bolted directly to the ABS block itself.
Symptoms of a faulty ABS module
When an ABS module fails or is about to fail, a number of secondary symptoms can occur. Recognizing these symptoms can help you resolve the issue much sooner than you would otherwise.
The following are some of the most common symptoms associated with a faulty ABS module:
1) Illuminated ABS light
Because your vehicle’s ABS system performs a self-check every time the button is pressed, any associated errors will be stored relatively quickly once they occur. When this type of fault is recorded, the ABS warning light will illuminate on the vehicle’s dashboard to alert the driver to the problem.
2) Locking brakes
In some cases, the ABS module can fail, causing unintended braking, often very aggressive braking. B. If the brakes lock while driving. What’s even more concerning is that these cases are often sporadic and occur without warning during normal braking.
3) Changes in required braking force
If your car suddenly requires more or less braking force to stop, the ABS module may be to blame. This often occurs when the ABS circuitry can no longer regulate hydraulic brake pressure as accurately as it once did. Is it safe to drive with a defective ABS module?
You can still drive a vehicle with a defective ABS module, but it is not recommended to drive it for extended periods of time. This is because if the ABS module fails, the ABS function will cease. As a result, your vehicle may not enjoy the valuable safety features it was originally intended to provide.
However, if the ABS module fails, you can still use standard hydraulic brakes. This will allow you to continue your journey and safely arrive at a point where diagnosis and repairs can be performed.
However, it is not advisable to rely on this knowledge if you intend to drive a vehicle without proper ABS function for an extended period of time.
What causes an ABS control module to fail?
Although ABS control modules are very robust in nature and will often last the life of the vehicle, they can fail for a variety of reasons. One of the main factors that causes ABS module failure is impact. These modules are often damaged by impacts even when there is no external damage.
When an impact is not the cause of an ABS failure, water ingress, corrosion, or electrical overload are the main culprits.
Simply put, if an ABS module is exposed to substandard conditions, its lifespan can be significantly affected. Even more worrying is the fact that failures can occur months or even years after this contamination begins.