Vintage Auto Parts: Tips for Restorers and Repairers

4 Common Signs Your ABS Pump Needs Replacing

28 July 2022

Malena Capel

ABS stands for 'anti-lock braking system', and it's one of your vehicle's most important safety mechanisms. When you hit the brakes, the ABS will detect any wheel slip and ensure braking pressure is relieved – this in turn helps prevent wheel lock and keeps you in full control. This system is made up of several different parts, including an ABS pump and ABS sensors. Unfortunately, these can become worn over time, and continuing to drive with a faulty ABS pump is not a good idea.

With that in mind, here are just four signs you need a new ABS pump. 

1. Your Dashboard's ABS Light Comes On

Modern vehicles are great at letting drivers know when something requires attention. As such, one of the first signs something is wrong with your ABS pump is the dashboard's ABS warning light coming on. It should appear similar to the check engine indicator. This may indicate an issue with something other than the pump, but it's always best to have your car inspected at the first opportunity when this light comes on.

2. Your Wheels Lock Up

The ABS is responsible for preventing your wheels from locking, so naturally locking wheels are a sign that something might be wrong with the pump. Unfortunately, many people don't know what locked wheels feel like since anti-locking systems have been required on vehicles for such a long time. Essentially, having locked wheels means your wheels will stop turning but your vehicle will keep moving. It usually happens when you slam on the brakes, and it results in a lack of control. If you notice such an incident even for a few seconds, it's well worth visiting your local auto centre to check on the ABS pump and the rest of the system.

3. Unresponsive Braking

If there's something wrong with your ABS pump, usually one of the first signs will be slightly unresponsive braking that grows steadily worse over time. You may notice that pushing down on your brake pedal requires more effort than it used to. Eventually, you may find yourself pushing the brake pedal down as far as it will go or that the brakes need to be pumped. A vehicle with ABS should only require minimal braking effort, so anything more than the normal light touch should be cause for concern.

4. Faulty Speedometer

Finally, some drivers may notice their speedometer acting strangely. That's because ABS sensors count wheel revolutions and help determine speed. In some cases, a failed or faulty ABS pump can prevent this from happening properly. The speedometer may instead show a speed that seems incorrect or even reports that you aren't moving at all.

For more information on ABS pumps or other kinds of Toyota recycled car parts, reach out to a scrap yard or mechanic.

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