ABS Module Repair: Things You Should Know

Do you know which section of your car controls the braking pressure and protects you from skidding during adverse conditions? It is the ABS that helps your vehicle to perform efficiently. What happens when the ABS system goes faulty? How much does it cost to repair the ABS system?  

In this blog, we will learn more about ABS system repairs, the cost involved in its repair, and other important facts concerning ABS system damage.  

What is Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)?

For added safety, your car should have an ABS or anti-lock braking system, which keeps the wheels from locking up under extreme braking conditions.  

Your wheel rotation is tracked by the ABS wheel speed sensor and communicated to the ABS control module. The ABS modulator’s valve assembly transmits this data to the control module, which then makes appropriate adjustments to the brake pressure (hydraulic pump).  

This procedure prevents skidding and hydroplaning and gives the driver some steering control, even in tricky conditions. 

How much is the cost to repair an ABS system?

Your ABS consists of two primary components, which may eventually need to be replaced. Wheel speed sensors and the control module. Changing out a control module and all four-wheel sensors will set you back about $2,000. From $1,500 to $3,000 is the usual pricing range. 

There is a wide range in the cost of control modules from vehicle to vehicle. A replacement control module will typically cost you around $1,000. Usually, one might expect to pay between $800 and $2000. If you have prior experience, you can reduce labor costs by doing the replacement job yourself.  

Also read: How much is the cost to replace an ABS sensor? 

What factors affect the ABS system repair costs?

The ABS repair costs involve costs related to many other factors: 

• Depending on the car’s make and model, repair costs changes. Because of the specialty parts involved, repair of luxury brands is more expensive.  
• The type of ABS system is another factor that affects repair costs. Repairing the four-channel systems is the most expensive, and that of one-channel systems is the least expensive.  
• The age of the car also affects the repair costs. As the car ages, the number of parts that must be replaced will increase, and consequently, the repair costs.  

What are the symptoms of a damaged ABS system?

You should be able to identify the defect in your car’s ABS system. Before the defect worsens, you should be able to identify it. Given below are the different symptoms of a damaged ABS system. 

Locking up of brakes

If your brakes suddenly lock up, that’s an obvious warning sign. On applying full braking force, if the wheels lock and become uncontrollable, the ABS control unit is likely malfunctioning. 

If only one of your tires is locking, the problem may lie with the module sensor or a defective brake caliper. 

Unresponsive brake pedal

If the brakes don’t engage when you press the pedal, it could be due to a faulty ABS module. Your ABS sensors may be miscalibrated, preventing the calipers from closing and making it more difficult to use the brakes. 

A problem with the braking fluid could cause difficulty in pushing the brake pedal. 

Turning on of ABS light

Modern automobiles typically contain warning lights on the dashboard to let the driver know when something is amiss. When a problem is detected with the brakes, a modern car’s small yellow “ABS” light turns on.

Sometimes, the anti-lock brakes will still function properly even if the light is on. If the warning light comes on, it’s best to have your vehicle checked out.

Unresponsive traction control

The loss of traction control functionality is another common indicator of a faulty ABS system. Traction control systems reduce speed when accelerating, while ABS systems prevent the wheel from turning when stopping. 

Your vehicle’s traction control system depends on a valve housed in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module; thus, your traction control system may not work if the ABS module is malfunctioning. 

Inaccurate speedometer readings

Even though it is not its primary function, your ABS module is wired to the speedometer to accurately reflect the true speed despite variations in the wheel speed.  

If your speedometer is malfunctioning or providing inaccurate readings, a faulty ABS sensor could be the reason.  

Is it possible to drive without an ABS module?

Even if your ABS control module is malfunctioning, you can still use your regular brakes and safely operate your vehicle. Be especially cautious when the roads are wet or icy because you won’t be able to rely on the anti-lock feature of your brakes, and you can lose steering control if your tires start to slip.  

The ABS module in your car may additionally regulate the braking bias between the front and rear wheels through an Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) system. 

Bottom line

It may be expensive and time-consuming to replace faulty ABS modules, but the peace of mind it provides is well worth the investment. It allows you to relax and feel more in charge, even when driving in potentially hazardous conditions, such as bad weather, or when you need to make quick decisions. 

Make sure you watch for any of the signs we discussed. A professional should perform a check of the control module and a test of the ABS brake system if you see one. Never try to cut down costs, especially on the expensive parts of the vehicle. Because cheap parts will not always do the job as per your need.  

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