What's the matter with ABS and vehicle stability control malfunction?
3 Answers
It may be that the vehicle's anti-skid module and actuator have malfunctioned. It is recommended to contact a local authorized dealer for inspection. ABS: ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. Its function is to automatically control the braking force during vehicle braking, preventing the wheels from locking up and maintaining a state of rolling and sliding (with a slip ratio of about 20%), ensuring maximum adhesion between the wheels and the road surface. Vehicle Stability System: Its function is to monitor the driving state of the vehicle. When insufficient steering or oversteering occurs during emergency obstacle avoidance or turning, it prevents the vehicle from deviating from the ideal trajectory.
ABS and vehicle stability control failures are something I've seen quite a few times in my decades of driving. There are usually several common reasons for these issues: the wheel speed sensors are prone to getting dirty or damaged, causing the system to misjudge wheel lock-up; the control module might have software bugs or hardware failures; aging or loose wiring can affect signal transmission; and blown fuses can directly cut off power. When these faults occur, drive carefully—without ABS, braking distances increase, and the car becomes unstable, making it easier to skid in turns. Timely inspection is key. First, check the warning lights, and try cleaning the sensor dirt yourself. If that doesn't work, take it to a professional shop to scan for trouble codes with a diagnostic tool. Don't delay, as it could lead to bigger problems. Replacing a sensor might cost a few hundred bucks, but safety is priceless. As I often say, it's better to spend a little extra time on prevention.
From my experience, ABS and stability system failures are often related to wheel speed sensors. These sensors are installed near the wheels and can give inaccurate readings when covered with mud or rainwater, or if internal components fail. Another common issue is water ingress causing short circuits in the control unit. Corroded or loose wire connectors can also affect communication, and occasionally, software glitches may require a refresh. For a simple test, drive at low speed and gently apply the brakes to listen if the ABS pump is working—abnormal sounds usually indicate a problem. Avoid tampering with the wiring yourself; it's more reliable to use professional equipment to read error codes. Until repairs are done, drive slowly and avoid sharp turns, especially in rainy or snowy conditions where risks are doubled. Costs depend on the parts—sensors may cost a few hundred, while modules can be more expensive, running into thousands. I recommend regular maintenance checks on the sensor positions to save a lot of trouble.
