ABS and STC messages on for quite a while...

fbrfab · Post by **fbrfab** » 18 Jan 2010, 12:59

I have a 2001 S80, the ABS and STC message lights have been on.... for at least 2 years! I know, I have procrastinated and not done anything about it. A while back I took it to a Volvo dealership and they explained something in their typical highly technical mumble jumble and wanted to charge me $600....CAR BRAKES ARE WORKING FINE. Could somebody advise me if its ok to continue driving while ignoring this "problem" or should I get it diagnosed and taken care of...? I have seen the website from Victor Rocha in California where he gets the ABS modules and fixes them but I am not too mechanically inclined to pull out the ABS unit...

thanks

Fabricio in Miami FL
2001 S80 (non turbo) with 65K miles

stevick · Post by **stevick** » 18 Jan 2010, 13:05

Fabricio, the ABS removal/replacement does not require any special mechanical abilities. It does require the right tool though. It would be worth it to you to have a mechanic pull it out, you send it in for a rebuild yourself, and take the returned rebuilt module back to the mechanic for re-install. In the meantime, the car will drive just fine with the module removed. Good luck!

fbrfab · Post by **fbrfab** » 18 Jan 2010, 13:10

Steve, Thanks for the advice. I am still wondering if Im putting myself/my family at risk by driving with this problem or is this a non essential Volvo feature we can live without...?

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 18 Jan 2010, 15:50

fbrfab wrote:Steve, Thanks for the advice. I am still wondering if Im putting myself/my family at risk by driving with this problem or is this a non essential Volvo feature we can live without...?

It depends on if you want ABS and Traction Control. Without ABS a panic stop will likely result in wheel lockup and a longer stopping distance with the possiblity of losing control of the car (unless you are a really good driver). This may or may not result in an accident. The traction control would help in poor weather conditions and possibly in a skid or spin situation. Both are probably rare occurances depending on where you live and what time of year it is. Ultimately it's up to you to decide if it's worth getting it fixed.