Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems: Service Precautions

Notice: The following are general precautions which should be observed when servicing the antilock brake system, traction control system and/or other vehicle systems. Failure to observes these precautions may result in antilock brake system damage.

Notice: Do not use lubricated compressed air on brake parts as damage to rubber components may result.

Important:
^ Perform all service on a clean bench. Ensure that the bench is free from all mineral oil materials.
^ If any hydraulic component is removed or disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system. The fastener tightening values are for dry, non-lubricated fasteners.
^ Tire sizes other than the recommended sizes may reduce the ABS/TCS system performance.

The following precautions are not exhaustive. Follow the precautions when performing any ABS service. You should also be familiar with the ABS/TCS system and how the system interrelates with other components or systems.

1. Unplug the Electronic Brake Control Module/Electronic Brake Traction Control Module harness connector before performing any electrical welding procedure.
2. The ABS/TCS components are extremely sensitive to EMI. Proper mounting is critical when servicing these components. Carefully note the routing, position, mounting, and location of the following components:
^ The ABS/TCS wiring
^ The connectors
^ The clips
^ The brackets
^ All other related components
3. Do not disconnect the battery with the engine running.

CAUTION: Before removing or installing any electrical unit or when a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with "live" exposed electrical terminals, disconnect the negative battery cable to help prevent personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or components. Unless instructed otherwise, the ignition switch must be in the "OFF" or "LOCK" position.

4. Do not connect or disconnect the Electronic Brake Control Module/Electronic Brake Traction Control Module (EBCM/EBTCM) connector with the ignition switch in RUN.
5. Do not attempt to repair the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV).
6. Do not hang the suspension components by the wheel speed sensor cables. Cable damage may result.
7. During painting work, do not subject the EBCM/EBTCM to temperatures over the following specifications: Specifications
^ Up to two hours: 95°C (203°F)
^ Two hours or more: 85°C (184°F)
8. Do not disassemble any ABS component which is designated as nonserviceable.
9. When servicing the master cylinder, observe the following steps:
^ Use only Supreme 11 or equivalent DOT 3 brake fluid when filling the master cylinder. Do not use a wet container.
^ Do not use a container which has been used for petroleum based fluids. Petroleum will cause swelling and distortion of the rubber parts in the hydraulic brake system. Water will mix with the brake fluid, lowering the boiling point.
^ Cap all fluid containers in order to prevent contamination.
10. Inspect the entire ABS system using the Scan Tool Diagnostic Tester after replacement of the following items:
^ The BPMV The EBCM/EBTCM
^ The Wheel Speed Sensor (WSS)
^ The wiring harness
^ Any other components involving the ABS system