Principles of Operation

Principles of Operations

Anti-Lock Control

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) module receives wheel speed readings from each wheel speed sensor and processes this information to determine if an ABS event is necessary. The wheel speed sensor electrically senses each tooth of the wheel speed sensor indicators as it passes through the wheel speed sensor magnetic field.

The active wheel speed sensor generates a signal that is sent to the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. The wheel speed sensor circuitry connects to the ABS module through two wires and a connector at each wheel speed sensor. When the ignition is turned to the RUN position, the ABS module carries out a self-test by sending a reference voltage to all of the wheel speed sensors and its circuitry to determine if they are functional.

The ABS module continuously monitors and compares the rotational speed of each wheel and when it detects an impending wheel lock, modulates brake pressure to the appropriate brake caliper. This is accomplished by triggering the hydraulic control unit (HCU) to open and close the appropriate solenoid valves. Once the affected wheel returns to normal speed, the ABS module returns the solenoid valves to their normal position, and normal (base) braking resumes.

The HCU has additional internal solenoid valves incorporated to enable control modulation of the wheel brake pressures.

The ABS module is self-monitoring. When the ignition switch is turned to the RUN position, the ABS module will do a preliminary electrical check, and at approximately 15 km/h (9 mph) the pump motor is turned on for approximately one-half second. Also, during all phases of operation the ABS module, with the vehicle in motion, checks for correct operation of the wheel speed sensors. Any malfunction of the ABS will cause the ABS to shut off. Normal power assisted braking, however, remains.

The ABS module has the ability to store 15 DTCs in its memory.
The traction control system controls wheel spin by modulating the engine torque by communicating to the powertrain module (PCM) and by applying, then releasing, the appropriate brake to restore traction when one or both drive wheels lose traction and begin to spin during acceleration.

The traction control system can be disabled by pressing the traction control switch and is indicated by an indicator lamp in the traction control switch. The traction control will reset and return to normal traction assist when the ignition switch is cycled or when the traction control switch is pressed and released a second time.