Key Signs That Indicate Your Volkswagen ABS Module Is Failing
by schearerswpadmin June 19, 2024Volkswagen, or “People’s Car” in German, has a reputation as a manufacturer of reliable and affordable vehicles that can be used for years with minimal troubles. The brand is committed to protecting lives on the road and they have incorporated many advanced safety features into their vehicles to make them as safe as possible. Today’s blog post is about one such safety feature- the anti-lock braking system or ABS.
As you read through, you will learn about some of the reasons and signs of ABS module failure in VW cars. Let’s begin by discussing the significance of the module- what it is and what purpose it serves.
Key Points About The ABS Module
ABS, as most of our readers are probably aware, curbs wheel lockup during difficulty braking situations by controlling the braking pressure applied to each wheel individually- thereby averting skidding and maintaining control during tricky maneuvers. Contrary to cadence braking, ABS provides an automated solution to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking.
At the center of this system lies a module… a small computer entrusted with the task of managing various aspects of ABS operations. It essentially works by monitoring the rotational speed of each wheel through sensors. If it detects wheel slip or any other form of abnormalities during a tricky braking situation, it will modulate braking pressure in a very specific way to prevent traction loss. If it malfunctions because of moisture intrusion, corrosion, software glitches, or some other reasons, your braking system’s efficiency will be reduced drastically.
Signs To Look For
ABS warning light
Lately, has your Volkswagen’s ABS warning light been flashing intermittently? It could be a sign that your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system module is on its last legs. The module is capable of running diagnostic check within the system. If it detects any form of deformity, even within itself, it will activate the warning indicator. Some of the other dashboard warning indicators that might start flashing because of a glitch in the ABS system include stability control light and traction control light.
Unusual brake behavior
Is your ABS activating unnecessarily- even under normal braking situations? It could be due to the fact that your Volkswagen’s ABS module has malfunctioned. The module is the part that controls braking pressure within the system to prevent wheel lock-up during tricky braking conditions. If it goes crazy and starts acting erratically, the driver will encounter all sorts of braking-related issues. You will notice significant changes in the feel of the brake pedal. It may become harder to press than usual.
ESP problem
Electronic Stability Program and other essential safety features of your VW will not function the way they should if there is something off with the ABS module. The said features work in conjunction with each other to help maintain stability and control during concerning and emergency maneuvers. A glitch in one of these features will impact the functioning of others. For example, if the anti-lock braking system of your Volkswagen is acting up because of a defective module, its impact will be visible on the functioning of the ESP and others.
So, What’s The Solution?
If your VW’s braking system is acting up and you are noticing one of the above signs, reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Pull over at a safe location- away from the traffic and use a diagnostic scanner compatible with your Volkswagen to retrieve the error code stored in the system. If you are not quite good at troubleshooting such deformities, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Reach out to a nearby auto service center to get the issue diagnosed and addressed by certified technicians.
Let Our Factory Trained Technicians Handle The Issue
Module is the nucleus of your 
Volkswagen’s anti-lock braking system. Based on inputs received from the speed sensors, the module regulates braking pressure at individual wheels to prevent them from locking-up and skidding during emergency braking situations. A fault in a part of such significance can limit your Volkswagen’s braking efficiency.
If you don’t want to end up in a deadly collision because of reduced braking efficiency, ensure the upkeep of your VW’s ABS module. Residents of Allentown, Bethlehem, and Macungie, PA can contact us at Schearer’s Sales & Service to have their Volkswagen’s ABS modules checked by our experienced technicians. Call us at (610) 395-2514 or visit our website to schedule an appointment with our experienced team now.