Signs of a Failing ABS Valve Assembly

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) valve assembly is operated by the ABS control module. The ABS valve assembly is responsible for modulating the brake fluid pressure going to each of the brake mechanisms on your car’s wheels. This action by the ABS valve assembly prevents wheel lockup during braking, even when the road conditions are slippery. Your tires keep a firm grip on the road, allowing you to stop safely and securely.

Symptoms of a bad ABS valve assembly

A problem with your ABS valve assembly can be a serious issue. Because your ABS valve assembly is part of your car’s braking system, your ability to control and stop your car in bad weather conditions can be affected.

A bad ABS valve assembly can make it difficult to drive your car safely. Many factors can cause a bad ABS valve assembly. Here are some of the warning signs of a bad ABS valve assembly:

• Illumination of the ABS warning light
• Trouble code set in the computer
• The vehicle may hesitate to accelerate
• Skidding and sliding when braking in slippery conditions
• Low brake pedal
• Pulling to one side during ABS activation or normal braking
• Longer than normal stops
• Loss of traction, skidding, and hydroplaning under heavy braking
• Brakes lock up

Repairing a bad ABS valve assembly

The danger from a bad ABS valve assembly is the possibility that reduced or impaired braking performance could cause be hazardous to your driving safety, especially if it is wet, snowy or icy.

Your mechanic will thoroughly inspect the ABS valve assembly, along with the other elements of the anti-lock braking system. If the ABS warning light on your dashboard has lit up and thrown a trouble code, a diagnostic check with a code scanner can pinpoint the general cause of the problem.

If the cause is a bad ABS valve assembly, the bad one can be removed from your car, and then replaced with a new ABS valve assembly. Based on the condition of the related ABS and braking system parts, your mechanic may also recommend replacing some of these items as well. Once repairs are made, and the braking system has been flushed, filled, and bled, another scan with the code reader should verify that the problem has been solved.

The best way to keep your ABS valve assembly in good operating condition is by following your manufacturer’s recommended requirements for maintenance of the system, including brake fluid changes. The ABS valve assembly is a very expensive part to replace, so doing the necessary preventive maintenance can save you a big repair bill in the future!

Don't try repairing a bad ABS valve assembly by yourself

Unless you have had extensive experience in working with anti-lock braking systems and the computers that control them, leave this to the professionals! The proper repair of a bad ABS valve assembly involves a thorough understanding of how the various computer controlled, hydraulic, and mechanical braking components interact with each other. A thorough knowledge of diagnosing this system with a scan tool is also necessary – an overly general trouble code can be just the beginning of figuring out the precise cause of an ABS-related problem!

If you replace the ABS valve assembly and the code comes back, what will you do next? And what if you don’t bleed the brakes properly, and the air trapped in the lines keeps the brakes from working when you need to stop? If you don’t have a good answer to these questions, don’t put yourself in this situation! Your mechanic has the experience, the proper tools, and the diagnostic equipment to replace your ABS valve assembly safely and cost-effectively.