Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Flow of Diagnosis

INTRODUCTION
The A.B.S. system has an electronic control unit to control major functions. The control unit accepts input signals from sensors and instantly drives actuators. It is essential that both kinds of signals are proper and stable. At the same time, it is important that there are no conventional problems such as air leaks in the booster or lines, lack of brake fluid, or other problems with brake system.

It is much more difficult to diagnose a problem that occurs intermittently rather than continuously. Most intermittent problems are caused by poor electric connections or faulty wiring. In this case, careful checking of suspicious circuits may help prevent the replacement of good parts.

A visual check only may not find the cause of the problems, so a road test should be performed.





Before undertaking actual checks, take just a few minutes to talk with a customer who approaches with a A.B.S. complaint. The customer is a very good source of information on such problems; especially intermittent ones. Through the talks with the customer, find out what symptoms are present and under what conditions they occur.





Start your diagnosis by looking for "conventional" problems first. This is one of the best ways to troubleshoot brake problems on an A.B.S. controlled vehicle.





WORK FLOW

DIAGNOSTIC WORKSHEET

There are many kinds of operating conditions that lead to customer complaints, even if the system is normal.

A good grasp of such conditions can make trouble-shooting faster and more accurate.

In general, feelings for a problem depend on each customer's information. It is therefore important to fully understand the symptoms or under what conditions a customer complains. Make good use of a diagnostic worksheet such as the one shown below in order to utilize all the complaints for troubleshooting.





WORKSHEET SAMPLE