ABS Module Rebuild & Repair

[TexasCotton]

I am of the current awareness that most of the USA only replaces vehicles ABS modules from either dealer parts, online and local parts store. The liability and time barriers no one hardly attempts the process of rebuilding/ repair (if possible) ABS module. My limited understanding the ABS module has a pump (DC motor 12V) accumulator, distribution block (fluid) and electronics.

The pump teardown and or repair of the DC motor would entail brush & bearing replacements with rust and debris removal. This would be obvious path especially if you have a (noise/sound) from failing bearing..

Your experiences and insight are welcome with hopeful dash of critical think.

[TexasCotton]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKi5O3ZlSu4

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

When you mention modules, the first thing that comes across my mind is the control module, not the valve body. Well, since it's a critical system when it comes to safety, it's quite uninviting for shade-tree mechanics to deal with it at home...

[M_a_t_t]

96-05 astro and safari vans have a common abs issue with a certain solder joint. It's actually a common DIY repair people do on the forum. Usually the newcomer is nervous and just buys another unit, used refurbished or brand new, then the problem comes back and they fix it themselves for the second time.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by M_a_t_t

96-05 astro and safari vans have a common abs issue with a certain solder joint. It's actually a common DIY repair people do on the forum. Usually the newcomer is nervous and just buys another unit, used refurbished or brand new, then the problem comes back and they fix it themselves for the second time.

Maybe an earlier generation of ABS system is more novice-friendly than the modern ones. At least in my country, ABS only became mandatory in 2014, so it's still often considered too complex by many DIYers. I have actually seen some folks removing the ABS in older cars instead of fixing it, while others remove even the hydroboost on simpler cars originally not fitted with ABS. Another makeshift that I have seen quite often is adapting a "mechanical ABS" more commonly found on small-displacement Chinese motorcycles.

[wdb]

Some cars have ABS modules that are coded to the car, so that replacement also requires recoding. I've had two go bad on me; one was replaced/recoded with a used unit, the other was sent out to a repair facility. Both results are currently working flawlessly.

These days the ABS module does a whole lot more than just keep the brakes from locking up in an emergency. It is part of the traction control system, on some vehicles it performs a "limited slip differential" imitation, and on some vehicles it keeps the front brake pads clean, dry and close to the rotor via regular very light application of pressure. In short the little buggers are quite busy indeed.

[M_a_t_t]

Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr

Maybe an earlier generation of ABS system is more novice-friendly than the modern ones.

This is a great point. The more high tech stuff gets the less I want to mess with it.

It has been my tendency to "ignore" new cars. Like some others on this forum I have no intention of buying a new(er) car. My newest is an 04 and hadn't really changed since 96.

[Ransom]

On my 2001 Tahoe the ABS light would randomly come on and stay on until cycled the ignition. Seems to be a common issue with that generation. Fix was to reflow all the solder joints on top of board. Did that about 5 years ago and all was good

[teoman]

I do partially agree that things should not be made too complex for reliability. Like the ultra luxurious AC system on some MB cars that have 29 temperature sensors...

However, these higher tech modules do provide more efficiency. Also if you have the software, then you can interrogate them and perform all kinds of diagnostics on them which eases repair processes. Its just that the repair abilities are shifting from the mechanical and electrical to the electronic and software domains and the public knowhow is not available.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by teoman

public knowhow is not available

That's how a planed obsolescence is enforced