Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Anti-Lock Relay

The ABS system is a mandatory safety feature found on all late model vehicles. It serves to help slow down the vehicle and prevent wheel lock and tire skid during heavy braking situations. As is the case with the systems on most modern vehicles, the ABS system is electronic in nature, and uses an electronic relay to supply it with power. It is the job of the ABS relay to supply power to the ABS module, pump, and the rest of its components so that they can successfully serve their purpose.

Because the ABS relay is what supplies power to the entire system, when it malfunctions or has a problem, that problem can quickly transfer to the rest of the system, so it should be serviced as soon as possible. Usually, when the ABS relay fails, the vehicle will produce a few symptoms that can alert the driver that there may be a potential problem.

Check Engine Light / ABS Light is on

One of the first symptoms of a defective ABS relay is an illuminated Check Engine or ABS Light. If the computer detects that the relay has failed, or is giving an abnormal reading, then it will activate the Check Engine or ABS Light to alert the driver of a potential problem. The Check Engine and ABS Lights can come on for a variety of reasons, so having the computer scanned for trouble codes can help shed some light on what the exact problem may be.

Unexpected wheel lock from ABS system failing

Another symptom of a problem with the ABS sensor is a non-functioning ABS system. If the ABS sensor fails or malfunctions, then the entire ABS system will be without power and will be unable to function, sometimes without activating the ABS or Check Engine Light. The vehicle may still brake normally, however, the assisted braking provided by the ABS system will be disabled, which may leave the vehicle more susceptible to wheel lock and tire skidding during heavy braking and slippery conditions.

The ABS system is an important safety feature found on virtually all modern vehicles, and as is the case with most automotive systems, it is fed power through a relay. For this reason, if you suspect that your ABS system may be malfunctioning, or needs to have the anti-lock relay replaced, a professional technician, such as one from YourMechanic, can diagnose the vehicle and verify what repairs are required.


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Jesse

17 years of experience
127 reviews
Jesse
17 years of experience
Jaguar S-Type V8-4.2L - Brake System Inspection - Palm Coast, Florida
Jesse showed up for the appointment timely and ready to work. He was polite and professional and competent. He took sufficient time to inspect the vehicle and explained in layman's terms any problems and whatever corrective work that might be required. I highly recommend Jesse and hope to have him service my vehicles again in the future if needed.
Ford Escape - Brake System Inspection - Daytona Beach, Florida
Jesse arrived on time after sending notice 15 mins prior. A true professional Jesse got right down to business. He started his inspection work right away and did a thorough professional job and determined the solution to his findings. I am very pleased. He is a true expert mechanic.

Johnny

34 years of experience
392 reviews
Johnny
34 years of experience
Toyota RAV4 L4-2.4L - Brake System Inspection - Sacramento, California
Johnny arrived early which was great, he performed the inspection in less than half an hour, and gave us a complete quote for all items needing attention, including the brakes as our main concern. Johnny is fast and efficient so I scheduled the work done by him.
Ford Escape - Brake System Inspection - Sacramento, California
The convenience is worth the cost. I was also tired of the dealership not really caring about my old car. Last couple of times I had to wait well over an hour to get my car after the dealership said "It's ready!". They also wouldn't fix the things I asked saying they didn't have time and I need to come back.

Luis

30 years of experience
119 reviews
Luis
30 years of experience
Honda Accord V6-3.0L - Brake System Inspection - Northbrook, Illinois
He's excellent. On Time, honest and all repairs done quickly and correctly. Book him if he's available!

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16 years of experience
246 reviews
Christopher
16 years of experience
Nissan Sentra L4-2.0L - Brake System Inspection - Charlotte, North Carolina
Very informative and made sure to clarify on what he spoke on so that I understood what was happening with my car

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