Anti-lock Brake Repair

Anti-lock brakes are a standard safety feature on most vehicles. The four components of the ABS system include speed sensors, valves, a pump, and a controller. The controller is basically a computer that receives information from the speed sensors, and activates the valves and pump when needed. When the ABS warning light illuminates, it indicates a problem within this system. The warning light will also tell you that your ABS system is disabled. The complexity of anti-lock brake systems makes them difficult to fix on your own. Brake repair also often requires specific tools that an experienced professional would have. 

Anti-lock brakes have become standard equipment on almost all vehicles these days. They prevent the wheels from locking up in certain situations and reduce the car’s required stopping distance. In an emergency situation, ABS also gives the driver more steering control while applying brakes. If you find yourself in what seems like an accident about to happen, your anti-lock brakes can help you avoid the crash. Modern ABS systems are highly computerized and typically made up of four primary components.

The first component is a set of speed sensors located at each wheel. The sensors continuously monitor the rotation of the wheels. If a wheel is rotating faster or slower than the other wheels, the sensors alert the ABS system of the problem. When a wheel is about to lock up, or stop rotating, it will spin slower than the other wheels. To keep this from happening the ABS system reduces brake pressure at that wheel so that it can rotate faster again. The valves that release this pressure comprise the second component of the ABS. The third component is a pump that puts pressure back on the brakes after it has been released. The final component is the controller, or electronic control unit. The controller is essentially a computer, which receives input from the wheel speed sensors and activates the valves when needed.

If the ABS warning light comes on, it indicates that there is a problem somewhere in the system. Once the light is on, the ABS system is programmed to disable itself until the problem is fixed. Though you will still have your normal brakes, the anti-lock brakes will not work. This means if you are skidding toward another car on a slick road, you are less likely to avoid hitting the other car. The wheels on your car will probably lock up, and you will not have much steering control. Because the system is so complex, a professional mechanic should complete any brake repair that it might need. 

The ABS controller records a special code to help you find the fault in the system. You will need to find a mechanic with a scan tool to retrieve the code. On some cars, you may be able to get the code by switching the ABS into its diagnostic mode. The code will flash through the location of the ABS warning light. The vehicle’s service manual contains a diagnostic chart for the possible codes. The chart will indicate which component of the ABS is not working properly. Most ABS repairs require special tools and equipment. This is another reason you should not attempt the brake repair yourself, unless you have a lot of experience working on cars.

Even though you will still be able to use your normal brakes, ABS issues should not be ignored. The anti-lock braking system is standard in most cars for a reason. It is a safety feature that can help prevent an accident. You may want to try a few simple troubleshooting steps before visiting a mechanic. For example, you can check for a bad fuse to make sure the ABS actually needs repair. You may also want to try cleaning the ABS controller and the sensors at each wheel. If these simple solutions do not fix the problem, you should take the vehicle to an experienced professional.