Anti-Lock Brake System

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) operates as follows:

• When the brakes are applied, fluid is forced from the brake master cylinder outlet ports to the hydraulic control unit (HCU) inlet ports. This pressure is transmitted through four normally open solenoid valves contained inside the HCU, then through the outlet ports of the HCU to each wheel.
• The primary (rear) circuit of the brake master cylinder feeds the right front and left front brakes.
• The secondary (front) circuit of the brake master cylinder feeds the left rear and right rear brakes.
• If the anti-lock brake control module senses a wheel is about to lock, based on wheel speed sensor data, it closes the normally open solenoid valve for that circuit. This prevents any more fluid from entering that circuit.
• The anti-lock brake control module then looks at the anti-lock brake sensor signal from the affected wheel again.
• If that wheel is still decelerating, it opens the normally closed solenoid valve for that circuit to reduce hydraulic pressure.
• Once the affected wheel comes back up to speed, the anti-lock brake control module returns the solenoid valves to their normal condition allowing fluid flow to the affected brake and the ABS pump motor deactivates.
• Malfunction of the anti-lock brake system will cause the anti-lock brake control module to shut off or inhibit the system. However, normal power-assisted braking remains.
• Malfunctions are indicated by the yellow ABS warning indicator on the hybrid electronic cluster (HEC).
• The 4-wheel anti-lock brake system is self-monitoring. When the ignition switch is turned to the RUN position, the anti-lock brake control module will perform a preliminary self-check on the anti-lock electrical system indicated by a three second illumination of the yellow ABS warning indicator in the HEC.
• During vehicle operation, including normal and anti-lock braking, the anti-lock brake control module monitors all electrical anti-lock functions and some hydraulic operations.
• Each time the vehicle is driven, as soon as vehicle speed reaches approximately 12 km/h (7.5 mph), the anti-lock brake control module turns on the pump motor and valves for approximately one-half second. At this time, a mechanical noise may be heard. This is a normal function of the self-check by the anti-lock brake control module.
• Most malfunctions of the anti-lock brake system and traction control system, if equipped, will cause the yellow ABS warning indicator to illuminate.