Signs of an ABS Pump Failure

Many modern braking systems require the use of an ABS pump, but what are the signs that it should be replaced?

Your car's anti-lock braking system, or ABS, protects your tyres from locking up if you quickly hit the brake pedal. It's a critical safety element that helps to prevent skidding on slippery roads and the accidents that might arise. If not properly maintained, the ABS, like other mechanical components, is prone to deterioration and may eventually fail. These are signs that your ABS pump is malfunctioning and needs to be changed as soon as possible.

Search online for a car garage in Reading and book your car in with a qualified car mechanic to fully diagnose the ABS system and repair or replace the necessary parts.

What is the purpose of the pump?

On most vehicles, the ABS pump is a safety component that is part of the anti-lock braking system (ABS). The system as a whole has been meticulously designed to minimise severe brake lockup, as well as sliding, hydroplaning, and traction loss, during harsh braking. It's especially important in muddy terrains and in harsh weather conditions like slick roads or heavy downpours, because it helps the driver maintain entire vehicle control.

To avoid a MOT test failure, check MOT status of your vehicle and get the ABS pump fixed or replaced before your next MOT test.

What is An ABS System and How Does It Work?

Every ABS system is made up of the ABS pump and ABS sensors, which are mounted on each wheel. If the car is skidding or losing traction, the ABS sensors assess wheel speed and send a signal to the ABS pump to rapidly activate – that is, engage and disengage – the brakes.

Your car is more likely to skid, swerve and lose traction while braking hard if your ABS system isn't operating properly. The last thing you want to find out is while you're in a hurry in terrible weather, risking a vehicle accident.

Hence it is recommended to book your car in with a reputable garage in Reading and allow a trained technician to fix the issue.

As previously stated, a failed MOT test might be caused by a faulty ABS pump. Check MOT history of your car to see whether this was a previous reason for a MOT failure. If that's the case, speak with your mechanic to make sure there aren't any additional problems.

Fortunately, there are various signs that your ABS pump needs to be replaced. Some of them are as follows:

1. ABS Light Comes On- This is the most noticeable symptom on our list, as well as the most common indicator that your ABS is malfunctioning. On newer vehicles, look for an ABS warning light, which is usually orange or amber in colour and has an ABS emblem on it. On older cars, the check engine warning light may indicate a problem with this system.

2. Brake Pedal Isn't Working - Have you noticed that pushing the brake pedal requires a little more effort than usual? This might be the first sign that your ABS pump isn't working properly. If you notice that your brakes aren't as responsive as they used to be, this might be a red indication that something needs to be checked into. It's not a good idea to pump or push the brake pedal all the way down for little or no response from the brakes. In short, get professional help as soon as you realise something is wrong with your brake pedal. Allowing your brakes to become completely unresponsive is not a good idea.

3. Brake Pedal Needs More Force - Your car's brake pedal is designed to work with the minimum of effort possible, and stopping should only require a light touch in a car with effective ABS. If you observe that you have to use more force to get the same degree of braking force, the ABS pump might be failing. Seek competent advice as soon as possible.

4. Brakes Locking Up - The sole purpose of an ABS system is to prevent your brakes from locking up in challenging situations, allowing you to retain a high degree of traction. A faulty ABS pump, on the other hand, might be the cause of your brakes locking up under normal driving conditions. If your brakes start to act weirdly, or if you hear unusual clicking noises or feel the brakes pumping, you may have a problem. It's time to see a professional if the condition worsens to the point where the brakes lock the wheels up while driving. The ABS pump is almost definitely broken and will require replacement.

5. Speedometer Failure - It's likely that your brakes are faulty, but ABS failures can also cause problems with your speedometer, stopping you from knowing how fast your car is driving. The ABS pump might cause the speedometer to stop working correctly if it fails or becomes faulty. It will either indicate an incorrect speed or, worse still, show that the car is moving at 0 miles per hour. This may be followed by the illumination of the ABS or check engine lights. Even if there isn't a light, faults with the speedometer are a significant signal that your car should be examined by a professional car mechanic.

ABS pump issues must be addressed immediately if you want to retain your car's efficiency, acceptable handling, and performance. Keep a watch on this list of symptoms to make sure you don't hurt yourself or create any accidents.