Imagine this:
You are enjoying a drive after a tired day at work when the ABS light on your dashboard suddenly starts glowing. Moments later, the brake pedal becomes unresponsive.
It’s natural to feel worried and wonder — is something wrong with my ABS module?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll explain everything you need to know about the ABS modules, including what they do, how to spot signs of failure, and repair costs.
This Article Contains:
- What Is an ABS Module?
- What Are the Symptoms of a Bad ABS Module?
- Why Is Your ABS Module Failing?
- Can You Drive with a Bad ABS Module?
- How to Diagnose a Faulty ABS Module: A General Know-how
- How to Replace the ABS Control Module Step-by-Step
- How Much Does Fixing the ABS Control Module Cost?
What Is an ABS Module?
The ABS control module is an integral part of your car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS), designed to prevent it from locking or skidding, especially during emergency braking situations.
It works closely with the hydraulic brake system, using valves and an ABS pump to adjust brake fluid pressure at each wheel.
When it fails, the wheels lock up under heavy braking pressure, causing skids, reduced steering control, and longer stopping distances. This increases the risk of accidents.
Now, let’s understand how a fully functional ABS system works.
How Does the ABS System Work?
The ABS system activates when the electronic control unit (ECU) detects that one tire moves much more slowly than the others. This indicates that the wheel is about to lock up, and the driver could lose control.
When that happens, here’s how the ABS control unit responds:
- Briefly reduces braking force on the affected wheel to prevent it from locking up.
- Reapplies braking pressure so that the wheel regains grip on the road.
- Repeats this cycle many times per second until optimum traction and control are restored.
Knowing what ABS control modules do makes it easier to recognize when they aren’t working properly.
In the next section, we’ll discuss how to identify signs of failing ABS control modules.
What Are the Symptoms of a Bad ABS Module?
When ABS control modules in vehicles aren’t working, you may notice:
- An illuminated ABS warning light on the dashboard
- Locked brakes
- Unresponsive brake pedal
- Increased pedal effort
- Faulty speedometer
Once you identify a bad ABS control unit, the next step is to understand what went wrong. Let’s discuss a few common causes.
Why Is Your ABS Module Failing?
ABS control modules in vehicles can fail due to:
- Moisture in ABS parts
- Corrosion in brake parts
- Software glitches in the electronic control unit (ECU)
- Malfunctioning parts like the ABS pump or sensor
- Insufficient brake fluid level
- Normal wear over time
- Wiring harness and connector issues
Concerned about whether you should be on the road with these issues?
Keep reading!
Can You Drive with a Bad ABS Module?
Yes, you can drive your car with a faulty ABS control module, but it’s not recommended as it compromises your safety.
That said, without an ABS control module, your car’s regular brakes will still work, but the braking force won’t be distributed effectively. Consequently, stopping distances will be longer, especially on wet, snowy, or loose surfaces.
In some cases, anti-lock brake system failure can also affect traction control and electronic stability control systems, further increasing the chances of road mishaps.
That’s why you need to get it fixed without delay.
And the first step toward that is to diagnose the issue correctly.
How to Diagnose a Faulty ABS Module: A General Know-How
Diagnosing bad ABS control modules requires in-depth knowledge of automotive parts and years of expertise. So, it’s best to consult a mechanic.
But to give you an idea, here’s how they’ll go about it:
- Locate the control module: The mechanic will locate the ABS control unit, which is usually mounted in the engine compartment. Sometimes, it’s also located in the frame rail on the left side of the vehicle.
- Check for ABS codes: A faulty ABS module generates DTC codes like C0550 and C0110. A mechanic will use a reliable scan tool or trouble code reader to identify these and determine the issues.
- Examine ABS system: Your mechanic will inspect ABS components (like ABS motor and brake fluid levels) to decide whether repair, refill, or replacement is needed. The mechanic will also look for a faulty ABS sensor (the wheel speed sensor), blown fuses, and stuck hydraulic valves, as they could trigger the ABS warning light.
- Test drive: The mechanic will drive and stimulate emergency braking conditions (such as driving on a slippery road or sudden turn after overspeeding) to confirm whether the anti-lock brake system activates properly.
After diagnosing the exact issue, your mechanic will either repair, rebuild, or replace the ABS control module.
We cover the replacement steps next.
How to Replace the ABS Control Module Step-By-Step
Here’s how your mechanic will carry out ABS control module replacement:
- First, they’ll remove the negative battery cable and electrical harness to prevent electrical mishaps.
- Next, they’ll remove the mounting bolts to physically detach the vehicles’ anti-lock brake system module.
- Your mechanic will swap the old ABS control module with a new one. They’ll ensure the new ABS unit has the same specifications.
- After that, they’ll reinstall the mounting bolts to secure the ABS control module to the vehicle.
- They’ll reconnect the electrical harness to the new ABS control unit, then reattach the negative battery cable.
- If required, your mechanic will program or code the new ABS control module using a scan tool, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- They’ll bleed the brakes to remove air bubbles from the system. Many vehicles integrate the ABS with the hydraulic control system. Disturbing the ABS unit can introduce air into the braking system.
- Start the vehicle. If the ABS light on the dashboard comes on and goes off immediately, it means the ABS module is working fine.
NOTE: The error light may stay on if the new ABS control module is incompatible with your vehicle.
ABS module replacement is usually the last resort, considered only after trying to repair or rebuild the module. Either way, it will come at a cost.
How Much Does Fixing the ABS Control Module Cost?
ABS module repair, such as fixing a cracked joint, burnt transistor, or corroded pins, costs anywhere between $100 and $300.
In case you want to prevent future issues and improve durability, your mechanic may rebuild your ABS control module, which typically costs $100 to $400.
However, if the damage is severe, they may replace the ABS control module entirely, which will cost around $980 to $1040.
Say Goodbye to ABS Issues with AutoNation Mobile Service
ABS modules play a vital role in vehicle safety by stabilizing cars in heavy braking conditions. That’s why it’s important to have a mechanic check the vehicle immediately if you notice any problems.
But if you are pressed for time, the ABS module repair experts at AutoNation Mobile Service will come to you.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution available seven days a week. We offer transparent pricing and a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on all repairs.
Contact us to fix your ABS problems right from your driveway.