What is an ABS Computer / ECU?
The ABS ECU ( ABS control module or ABS computer) is a small computer that controls your vehicle’s anti-lock braking (ABS) system. The ABS computer / ECU uses information from your car’s wheel-speed sensors to determine when to release the braking pressure on each wheel. This prevents skidding and the brakes locking up each wheel.
Additionally, the ABS computer / ECU runs diagnostics checks on your vehicle’s ABS system. If part of your ABS system isn’t working correctly, the ABS light will appear on your car’s dash. When the warning light appears, a fault code will be saved to the computer’s memory. This code can then be read with a scan tool / diagnostic tool.
Common ABS Computer / ECU faults:
There are several things that can go wrong with your ABS Computer / ECU system. These include:
- Lack of communication with wheel speed sensors.
- Inaccurate analysis of wheel speed sensor signals.
- ABS ECU not working at all.
- Fuses blown
- Wiring faults or intermittent wiring connections
Symptoms of a faulty ABS ECU:
ABS light icons
ABS light on – The ABS light is your vehicle’s way of warning you there is a fault in your ABS system. It will usually turn on if your ECU is not working correctly.
ABS light diagnostics and fixes in Hamilton
Locking while braking – If the ECU stops working, the ABS system will not be able to function. This can cause your vehicle’s wheels to lock under heavy braking conditions which can be very dangerous.
How important is the ABS Computer / ECU?
If your ABS Computer / ECU / Control Module system fails, you should get it replaced immediately. The ABS ECU controls your ABS braking system, improving safety by preventing wheel locking. A faulty ABS system can increase the risk of you losing control if you have to brake suddenly.
The ABS Computer / ECU / Control Module system is required to be fully correctly for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and therefore if your ABS warning light comes on between Warrant of Fitness check, then please aware that legally you should not be driving your vehicle and the police could give you a fine.
ABS Computer / ECU / Control Module Replacement in Hamilton
Are you having problems with your ABS ECU? If so, we are happy to help. Our mechanics can reset your ABS ECU, clear fault codes or perform an ECU replacement if necessary.
Additionally, we have advanced diagnostic tools that allow us to read ABS fault codes and ABS system live data on virtually all vehicles. This gives us a better idea of what is wrong with your vehicle, allowing us to diagnose and fix your vehicle quicker.
For fast, reputable, honest ABS component replacement services in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!
Please Note – we don’t generally stock or supply just “parts only” for this service. We are a general automotive repair workshop. If you are able to bring your vehicle to us, we can diagnose the problem, find and fit the necessary parts, or organise the appropriate service for you.