ABS Diagnostic & Repair Cost Guide
ABS Warning Light Diagnostic
Initial diagnostic scan and inspection: $125 (1 hour labor)
This covers basic system scanning and preliminary inspection to identify the source of the warning light.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Testing
Diagnostic and testing: $125-$187.50 (1-1.5 hours labor)
Sensor replacement if needed: Additional $75-$200 for parts plus 1 hour labor ($125)
ABS Module Testing
Complete diagnostic: $187.50-$250 (1.5-2 hours labor)
Module replacement if needed: Additional $500-$1,200 for parts plus 2-3 hours labor ($250-$375)
ABS Pump/Motor Assembly Diagnostic
System testing: $187.50 (1.5 hours labor)
Pump replacement if needed: Additional $400-$800 for parts plus 2-3 hours labor ($250-$375)
ABS Hydraulic Unit Testing
Pressure testing and diagnosis: $187.50-$250 (1.5-2 hours labor)
Unit replacement if needed: Additional $600-$1,000 for parts plus 3-4 hours labor ($375-$500)
ABS Wiring Harness Inspection
Complete circuit testing: $187.50-$250 (1.5-2 hours labor)
Wiring repair if needed: Additional $100-$300 for parts plus 1-3 hours labor ($125-$375)
Note: These are estimated costs. Actual prices may vary depending on vehicle make/model and the extent of repairs needed. Parts costs are approximate and can vary significantly based on vehicle type and part availability.
Common ABS Diagnostic Issues and Repair Procedures
ABS Sensor Failure
Repair Procedure:
- Scan vehicle computer for specific sensor location and fault codes
- Locate the faulty ABS sensor (usually at wheel hub)
- Remove wheel and brake caliper for access
- Disconnect electrical connector
- Remove mounting bolt and extract old sensor
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new sensor and secure mounting bolt
- Reconnect electrical connector
- Reinstall brake components and wheel
- Clear fault codes and test system
ABS Module Failure
Repair Procedure:
- Verify module failure through diagnostic testing
- Locate ABS module (usually near master cylinder)
- Disconnect vehicle battery
- Remove module cover and electrical connections
- Remove mounting bolts and extract old module
- Install new module and secure mounting bolts
- Reconnect all electrical connections
- Reconnect battery
- Program new module using manufacturer-specific software
- Perform system bleeding and testing
ABS Pump/Motor Failure
Repair Procedure:
- Confirm pump failure through diagnostic testing
- Disconnect battery
- Remove brake fluid from master cylinder
- Disconnect brake lines from pump assembly
- Remove electrical connections
- Remove mounting bolts and extract pump
- Install new pump assembly
- Reconnect brake lines and electrical connections
- Refill brake fluid
- Bleed entire brake system
- Clear fault codes and test operation
ABS Ring (Tone Ring) Damage
Repair Procedure:
- Remove wheel and brake components
- Remove hub assembly if necessary
- Inspect tone ring for damage
- If integrated with hub, replace entire hub assembly
- If separate, carefully remove damaged ring
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new tone ring using proper tools
- Reassemble hub and brake components
- Test sensor reading with diagnostic tool
ABS Wiring Issues
Repair Procedure:
- Perform diagnostic scan to identify affected circuit
- Visually inspect wiring harness for damage
- Test circuit continuity using multimeter
- Locate break or short in wiring
- Repair or replace damaged section of wiring
- Use appropriate connectors and heat shrink
- Secure repaired wiring properly
- Clear fault codes
- Verify proper system operation
Important Note:All ABS repairs should be performed by qualified technicians using proper tools and manufacturer-specific procedures. After any ABS repair, thorough testing is essential to ensure system safety and functionality.
Repair times and specific procedures may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult manufacturer service information for detailed instructions.
ABS Diagnostics Explained
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Testing
This diagnostic test examines the sensors that monitor each wheel's rotation speed. These sensors are crucial for the ABS system to detect when a wheel is about to lock up during braking. The test ensures all sensors are functioning correctly and providing accurate data to the ABS control module.
ABS Module Testing
The ABS module is the brain of your anti-lock braking system. This diagnostic evaluates the module's ability to receive, process, and respond to sensor inputs. It verifies that the module can properly control brake pressure and activate the ABS when needed to prevent wheel lockup.
ABS Hydraulic Unit Testing
This test examines the hydraulic unit that controls brake fluid pressure during ABS activation. It ensures the pump, valves, and accumulators are working correctly to modulate brake pressure when the ABS engages. Proper hydraulic unit function is essential for smooth and effective ABS operation.
ABS Warning Light Diagnosis
When your ABS warning light illuminates, this diagnostic process identifies the specific fault triggering the warning. Using specialized scanning equipment, technicians can read error codes stored in the ABS system to pinpoint exact issues requiring attention.
ABS Circuit Testing
This diagnostic examines the electrical circuits connecting all ABS components. It checks for shorts, opens, or resistance problems in the wiring that could compromise ABS performance. Proper circuit function is vital for reliable communication between ABS components.
ABS Brake Bleeding/Fluid Analysis
This service ensures the brake fluid is clean, at the correct level, and properly bled of air bubbles. Contaminated or air-entrained brake fluid can cause ABS malfunction. The analysis also checks fluid condition to prevent internal corrosion of ABS components.
ABS Integration Testing
This comprehensive diagnostic evaluates how well the ABS works with other vehicle safety systems like stability control and traction control. It ensures proper communication and coordination between these integrated systems for optimal vehicle safety.
Common ABS System Failure Symptoms and Warning Signs
Common ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Diagnostic Issues and Maintenance
ABS Warning Light
Signs of Failure:
- Illuminated ABS warning light on dashboard
- Light may come on intermittently or remain constant
- May be accompanied by brake warning light
Service Schedule: Check immediately when light appears; typically inspected during annual service
ABS Speed Sensors
Signs of Failure:
- Pulsating brake pedal during normal braking
- ABS activating at inappropriate times
- Speedometer malfunction
- Traction control system failures
Service Schedule: Inspect every 30,000 miles or when symptoms occur
ABS Module
Signs of Failure:
- Complete ABS system failure
- Unresponsive ABS during emergency braking
- Multiple error codes during diagnostic scan
Service Schedule: No regular maintenance required; replace only when faulty
ABS Hydraulic Unit
Signs of Failure:
- Unusual noises during ABS activation
- Hard or unresponsive brake pedal
- Brake fluid leaks
Service Schedule: Inspect during brake fluid changes (every 2-3 years)
ABS Wiring
Signs of Failure:
- Intermittent ABS functionality
- Multiple sensor failures
- Electrical system warnings
Service Schedule: Visual inspection during regular service intervals
ABS Tone Rings
Signs of Failure:
- Erratic speedometer readings
- False ABS activation
- Speed sensor-related error codes
Service Schedule: Inspect during brake rotor or wheel bearing service
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and follow manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
