Do You Know The Symptoms Of A Failing Abs Pump

By Author: Car Services in Reading
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Many current braking systems need the use of an ABS pump but what are the tell-tale symptoms that need to be replaced?

If you rapidly press the brake pedal, your vehicle's anti-lock braking system, or ABS, prevents your tyres from locking up. It's an important safety feature that helps to minimise skidding on slippery surfaces and the accidents that might occur as a result. The ABS, like other mechanical components, is susceptible to damage and might eventually fail if not properly maintained. These are symptoms that your ABS pump is deteriorating and needs to be replaced right away.

What is the Pump's Function?
The ABS pump is a safety element that is part of the anti-lock braking system on most cars (ABS). The system as a whole has been carefully engineered to prevent dangerous brake lockup in hard braking circumstances, as well as skidding, hydroplaning, and traction loss. It is especially crucial in muddy terrains and in extreme weather circumstances, such as slippery roads or heavy downpours, since it assists the driver in maintaining complete vehicle control.

Check MOT status ...
... of your vehicle and have the ABS pump repaired or replaced before your next MOT test is due to avoid an MOT test failure.

What is the ABS System and How Does It Work?
The ABS pump and ABS sensors, which are located on each wheel, make up every ABS system. When you apply the brakes, the ABS sensors measure wheel speed and send a signal to the ABS pump to rapidly activate - that is, engage and disengage - the brakes if the car is sliding or losing traction.

If your ABS system isn't working properly, your car is more prone to slide, hydroplane, and lose traction while braking hard. The last moment you want to find out is while you're in a pinch in bad weather, which might result in a car accident.

As mentioned earlier, a faulty ABS pump can lead to an MOT test failure, so it is recommended to check MOT status of your vehicle and have this issue resolved at your earliest convenience.

Fortunately, there are several indicators that you need a new ABS pump. The following are some of them:

1. Brake Pedal Isn't Working
Have you noticed that depressing your brake pedal takes a bit more effort than usual? This might be the first clue that your ABS pump is malfunctioning. If you're also seeing that your brakes aren't as responsive as they once were, this might be a red flag and a warning that something needs to be looked into. Allowing the brake pedal to be pumped or pushed all the way down for very little or no response from the brakes is not a good idea. In short, get expert assistance as soon as you notice anything isn't quite right with your brake pedal. Don't allow your brakes to get to the point where they're entirely unresponsive.

2. Brake Pedal Requires More Force
Your vehicle brake pedal is supposed to function with the least amount of effort possible, and in a car with strong ABS, braking should only demand a light touch. If you notice that you have to use more force to get the same level of braking force, this might be an indication that the ABS pump is failing. As soon as possible, seek expert counsel.

3. Brakes Locking Up
An ABS system's only function is to keep your brakes from locking up in difficult circumstances and scenarios, allowing you to maintain a high level of traction. A defective ABS pump, on the other hand, might be the reason for your brakes locking up under regular driving circumstances. If your brakes begin to behave strangely, or if you hear odd clicking noises or feel the brakes pumping, these might be the first signs of a problem. If the situation progresses to the point where the brakes lock the wheels up while driving, it's time to visit the mechanic. The ABS pump is almost certainly malfunctioning and will need to be replaced.

4. ABS Light Activated
This is the most visible symptom on our list, and it's also the most prevalent sign that your ABS is having issues. Look for a specific warning light on modern automobiles, which is generally orange or amber in colour and has an ABS symbol on it. The check engine warning light on older vehicles may signal a problem with this system. Go through your vehicles MOT history to determine if this was also a culprit in the past for an MOT failure. If so, have a word with your mechanic to ensure there are no other underlying issues.

5. Speedometer Failure
It's possible that your brakes are malfunctioning, but ABS faults can also create difficulties with your speedometer, preventing you from knowing how quickly your car is travelling on the road. When the ABS pump malfunctions or becomes defective, it might cause the speedometer to cease operating properly. It will either display an erroneous speed or, even worse, show that the vehicle is travelling at zero miles per hour. This might be followed by the activation of the ABS or check engine lights, but even if there isn't a light, problems with the speedometer are a strong indicator that you should have your vehicle inspected by a specialist.

If you want to keep your car's efficiency, decent handling, and performance, you must address the problem of ABS pump failures right now. Keep an eye on this list of symptoms to ensure you don't cause any harm or mishaps.

Once you've determined that there's an issue with your abs pump, you'll need to find a skilled technician and get the pump changed as soon as possible. You should expect to pay anything between 500 to 2000 for everything, including components and labour. Obviously, the brand and model of your car, as well as the technician you hire, will influence the price. Of course, you may browse around for the best deal, but make sure you move quickly because driving with a broken ABS pump might end up costing you a lot more money in the long run.