How to Fix ABS Brakes

What are ABS Brakes?

The Four-Wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is an electronically operated, all wheel brake control system. Major components include the power brake booster, master cylinder, the wheel speed sensors, and the

• Disc Brakes
• Brake Rotors
• Brake Caliper
• Vacuum Booster
• Drum Brakes
• Wheel Cylinders
• ABS
• Master Cylinder

Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) which contains the control module, a relay, and the pressure control valves. The system is designed to retard wheel lockup during periods of high wheel slip when braking. Retarding wheel lockup is accomplished by modulating fluid pressure to the wheel brake units when the control module detects a variation in voltage across the wheel speed sensors, the ABS is activated. The control module opens and closes various valves located inside the HCU. These valves, called dump and isolation valves, modulate the hydraulic pressure to the wheels by applying and venting the pressure to the brake fluid circuits.

If equipped the traction control system controls wheel spin by modulating engine torque and applying then releasing the appropriate rear brake to restore traction when driving on slippery or loose surfaces.

ABS Components

The anti-lock brake system consists of the following components:

• Vacuum booster and master cylinder assembly
• Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) and control module assembly
• Wheel speed sensors
• Brake Pedal Position (BPP) switch

ABS Speed Sensors

ABS Sensor Removal & Installation

Front

To Remove:

1. Before servicing the vehicle refer to the precautions in the beginning of this section.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.
3. Remove or disconnect the following:
   • Front anti-lock brake sensor electrical connector
   • Routing clips
   • Bolt
   • Front anti-lock brake sensor

To Install:

1. Install or connect the following:
   • Front anti-lock brake sensor. Tighten the bolt to 9 ft-lbs (12 Nm)
   • Routing clips
   • Front anti-lock brake sensor electrical connector
2. Lower the vehicle.

Rear

To Remove:

1. Before servicing the vehicle refer to the precautions in the beginning of this section.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.
3. Remove or disconnect the following:
   • Rear anti-lock brake sensor electrical connector
   • Routing clips
   • Bolt
   • Rear anti-lock brake sensor

To Install:

1. Install or connect the following:
   • Rear anti-lock brake sensor. Tighten the bolt to 80 in-lbs (9 Nm)
   • Routing clips
   • Rear anti-lock brake sensor electrical connector
2. Lower the vehicle.

ABS Module/Hydraulic Control Unit

Removal & Installation

To Remove:

To Install:

Bleeding The ABS System

Bleeding

WARNING
Use of any brake fluid other than approved DOT 3 or DOT 4 will cause permanent damage to brake components and will render the brakes inoperative.

WARNING
Brake fluid contains polyglycol ethers and polyglycols. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. If brake fluid contacts eyes flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken internally drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately.

CAUTION
Do not allow the brake master cylinder reservoir to run dry during the bleeding operation. Keep the brake master cylinder reservoir filled with the specified brake fluid. Never reuse brake fluid that has been drained from the hydraulic system.

CAUTION
Brake fluid is harmful to painted and plastic surfaces. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, wash it with water immediately.

NOTE: When Air can get into the brake system and cause a spongy brake pedal when any part of the hydraulic system has been disconnected for repair or installation of new components. This requires bleeding of the hydraulic system after it has been correctly connected. The hydraulic system can be bled manually or with pressure bleeding equipment.

Manual Bleeding

Pressure Bleeding