GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

ABS Indicator Lamp Operation

The system uses an amber ABS indicator lamp in the instrument cluster in order to show system operation and malfunctions.

Normal ABS Indicator Lamp Operation

The amber ABS indicator lamp is located in the instrument panel and alerts the driver of a malfunction in the ABS system. At vehicle start up, the EBCM illuminates the the amber ABS indicator light in the instrument cluster. The indicator will flash two times on start up and remain on until the vehicle reaches 11 to 16 km/h (7 to 10 mph), and then turn off. If a malfunction is present, the ABS indicator will remain on after the vehicle reaches 11 to 16 km/h (7 to 10 mph).

Tires and ABS

Correct tire size, proper inflation, accurate alignment and even wear are needed for good brake performance. These items are essential for proper ABS performance.

Spare Tire

Use of the spare tire supplied with the vehicle will not affect the performance of the system.

Replacement Tires

If the replacement tires are not the same size as the original tires, the EBCM will automatically recalibrate itself to compensate for the mismatch in wheel speeds.

Self-Tests

The EBCM performs a self test which continously checks for proper operation of the ABS system. The ABS indicator lamp alerts the driver of a malfunction in the ABS system. In the event that the EBCM detects a malfunction in the ABS system it will illuminate the amber ABS lamp located in the instrument panel. The associated diagnostic status lamps will also be illuminated.