The ABS pump is one of the central components of modern brake systems. However, if the ABS pump is defective, this can lead to the failure of the ABS system. Find out here whether repairing the component is possible or whether replacement is the better option.

How the ABS system and ABS pump work

The anti-lock braking system in cars, or ABS system for short, is probably one of the greatest innovations in the field of brakes. Through its use, it was possible for the first time to bring a vehicle to a safe stop without locking the wheels and at any time. Today, all modern vehicles have an ABS system as standard, which makes a major contribution to braking safety.

The ABS pump in the engine compartment is responsible for the control and function of the ABS system. Here, the component forms a central unit consisting of ABS motor with pump, valves and control electronics. If it becomes necessary to use the ABS, the unit initiates the necessary steps. The brake pressure is released in doses and the braking effect is pulsating, so that the wheels do not lock and the car remains steerable.

Repair or replace ABS pump?

If the ABS pump is defective, there are various options. The question is often: repair or replace the brake pump? Both are possible in order to restore the function of the brake system. As a rule, however, the ABS pump can only be repaired by a specialist garage.

An ABS fault diagnosis is carried out by a professional to determine the fault with the ABS pump. The pump can also be removed and sent in for analysis and repair. As an alternative to repairing the ABS pump, the part can also be replaced with a new or used spare part. The costs should be compared in order to find the best solution.

Symptoms of a defect in the ABS pump

If the ABS unit and ABS pump are defective, typical symptoms may indicate this. Possible signs of a defective ABS pump include the ABS warning light lighting up. In modern vehicles, an error code is also stored in the error memory, which indicates the failure of the ABS hydraulic pump.

• ABS warning light comes on
• Error code ABS hydraulic pump in error memory
• Braking behaviour of the car is unusual
• Noises from the ABS pump area
• ABS no longer works
• Wheels of the car lock during braking

Sometimes a failure of the ABS pump also shows unusual braking behaviour of the car. The braking force is not distributed as intended and the brakes of the vehicle tend to lock. The function of the anti-lock braking system is consequently no longer given. Unusual noises can also indicate a defect in the pump.

Not all symptoms must necessarily be triggered by a defect in the ABS pump. A defective ABS sensor can also be responsible for certain signs. Error messages and the illumination of the ABS warning light can also have different causes. In any case, the vehicle should be taken to a workshop as soon as the first signs indicate a defect in the brake system.

Why the ABS pump is broken

There can be many causes for a defect in the ABS pump. The motor installed in the control unit must exert enormous forces to generate the necessary pressure for the brake system. Therefore, it can wear out or otherwise break down during high mileage of the vehicle. In addition, the electronics inside the ABS control unit can be damaged, for example by a short circuit.

A leak in the brake system can also lead to a defect in the ABS unit if the electronics are damaged by brake fluid. Wetness and moisture can also cause damage to the ABS system component. Another possible cause for the failure of the ABS block is non-use. If the brakes and the ABS system are never used, for example during frequent city driving without braking manoeuvres, the component can seize and no longer function.

Brake maintenance and brake service

Brakes should be checked regularly as part of the brake service. The vehicle should not only be brought in for inspection when the brake performance starts to deteriorate. In the course of the brake inspection at the specialist workshop, all brake components are inspected and tested using the latest technology. This makes it easy to determine whether the brake control and brake performance are functioning as intended. In addition, components such as the brake hoses are checked for faults. The brake force is measured on a test stand.

Replace defective ABS pump

Since brake safety is a fundamental aspect of car safety, work on the brake system must only be carried out by a specialist. Therefore, it is best to have the brake repair carried out at the specialist workshop. If the ABS pump is broken, the specialist proceeds according to a set pattern. However, the individual steps may differ depending on the vehicle model and manufacturer.

Change ABS pump

1. Loosen the connections: In the first step, the specialist removes the defective ABS pump. To do this, he disconnects the connecting cables and the connections of the brake lines on the ABS unit. Any brake fluid that leaks out is collected.
2. Remove the ABS pump: After disconnecting the connections, the unit’s fastening screws are loosened and removed. The ABS pump can then be removed and taken out of the engine compartment.
3. Install a new ABS pump: After dismantling the defective component, it can either be sent in for repair or replaced with an intact unit. The installation is carried out in reverse order. The brake system is then bled and, if necessary, filled.

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