Brake woes

[BigP]

Have the 'ABS light won't go out problem'. Also have the problem that the light will go out but, that then causes a BIG scare;

Now, the light is normally always on & brakes work well but, occasionally it goes out. When this happens there appears to be no pedal movement & there's a terrible grating noise & 'scratchy' feeling in the pedal & no brakes. If I come off the brake & press it straight away there is normal pedal movement & feeling.

I've replaced all 4 callipers, discs & pads & still have the problem. It's bloody frightening when it happens.

Any help greatly appreciated.

Paul

[davyd8899]

What vehicle, 300, td5, d3??

[BigP]

Oh dear. It's a '98 300 tdi auto. I'm going to check the sensors are seated properly. Will post back result.

Paul

[SPendrey]

Mine did much the same. Mine is a '95, so I could do the blink test with a paperclip, I suspect you can't on a later model... but anyway it concluded a faulty sensor on one wheel. I replaced it (great value from these guys... http://stores.ebay.co.uk/autosense) but after a while I still have problems. Finally, I cured the issue by using loctite on the sides of the sensor as it went into the (copper or brass?) bush that holds it in the hub assembly. This stopped the sensor drifting out and causing an air gap. I can't recommend this, because I'm sure it'll cause a problem if/when I need to remove the sensor again, but for now I'll live with it.

In your case, find out how to get the ABS diagnostics data first, and look for air gap warnings.

[BigP]

Thanks for the feedback. Fiddled about with sensors on both front hubs and light went out as it should. Didn't really feel as if they moved much though? However, the no movement of the brake pedal reared its ugly head. Interestingly, when I feathered the pedal it would then brake as normal but, the light came back on. Looks like new sensor(s) needed.

Paul