ABS (Antilock Braking System) is responsible for pumping your breaks under specific circumstances. This system is usually the most effective under adverse weather conditions or in an emergency braking situation. Having your tires seize up under these situations can usually result in a loss of control, which is specifically what ABS is designed to avoid.
There are several reasons why the ABS light in your car may come on. The ABS system is made of many components, and it will typically take a certified mechanic to diagnose the issue. Some of the standard reasons for an ABS bulb to come on would include: faulty control unit, low brake fluid, speed sensor, wiring issue, bad pump, or a solenoid malfunction.
If you ABS light comes on when you start your car and then it turns off, this is a simple bulb check, and there is nothing you need to do.
If the light comes on when you’re driving, a fault has been detected in your system. This does not mean that you need to pull over immediately, but you should get the system serviced as soon as possible. Several systems rely on your abs system working properly, including your traction control, stability control, and other related systems. Also, keep in mind that if you do encounter an emergency situation where you need to brake abruptly, your vehicle may not be able to stop in time.
Most repairs to an abs system require a trained mechanic to diagnose the problem. However, if you don’t mind opening your hood, you can at least check the fluid level before taking a trip to the shop. Most abs systems use a separate reservoir from the actual braking system. If you can locate the reservoir and fill it to the appropriate line, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. Make sure you use the right type of brake fluid and that the fluid is fresh. You can usually find out what kind of fluid is necessary by looking on the reservoir or the reservoir cap.
If the ABS light in your vehicle has come on, and you are looking for some help, feel free to come by our shop. At Master Tech Auto Repair in Santa Fe, our mechanics are certified to fix all ABS issues. Visit the contact us to make an appointment, and we look forward to seeing you soon.
