Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Anti-Lock Brake System: Operation
As vehicle is driven, each wheel speed sensor sends an AC signal to ABS control module. As brake pedal is depressed, ABS control module starts to monitor vehicle rate of deceleration. If rate of deceleration is greater than preprogrammed amount, ABS control module signals hydraulic control unit solenoid valves to regulate brake hydraulic pressure. Solenoid valves increase or decrease hydraulic pressure to each front wheel and/or to both rear wheels. This action will slow each wheel at a preprogrammed rate to prevent wheel lock-up, allowing driver to maintain steering control.
If ABS malfunction occurs, ABS warning light in instrument cluster will come on. ABS control module will then deactivate ABS system, leaving conventional braking system intact. ABS control module can also self-diagnose ABS during each ignition cycle (OFF-ON-OFF). If an ABS fault is detected, ABS control module will store up to 3 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) to assist technician in diagnosing ABS.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.