2005 Chevy Equinox Brake ? - Diesel Forum

barrelhorses · 01-06-2008, 08:11 PM

I'm already taking the Equinox into the shop tomorrow, but thought I'd ask for some input on the problem.

This problem just started yesterday. The car slows down from speeds as usual, but when it is almost stopped (less than 5 MPH) the brakes feel like the ABS is kicking in and the brakes nearly give way and the pedal pulses bad. There doesn't seem to be any other noise (squeals, etc.) in the brakes. The car has 42K on it. I had new fronts put on about 5 months ago and the rears were said to be good for another year or more. I don't think this problem is related to pads, shoes, etc. I'm thinking ABS, but the ABS light does not come on when this happens. Anyone else have a guess?

And the worst part of all is....well my wife gets to drive the truck for a few days while the car is in the shop. I'll be driving Grandpa's S10. Not that his truck is bad, but it just ain't my truck.

Powerstrokedogg · 01-06-2008, 09:55 PM

i just worked on a explorer yesterday with the same problem(seen this many times). what happens is one of the speed sensors shorts out internally so that it will only pick up the signal at a higher speed. so when you start slowing down to arround 5 mph and lower the sensor dropps the signal(out of range of the ABS computer) so the computer thinks that wheel is locking up, so it activates the ABS, you can actually watch this happen on a scan tool

usually just a bad or dirty sensor

barrelhorses · 01-06-2008, 09:59 PM

Thanks. I hope it's nothing major (don't we always?). At any rate, it's going in tomorrow and will sit at the dealership until they can get it in (don't have an appointment). I'm not comfortable with my wife driving it and there ain't no way my son is getting in the car until this is resolved.

Powerstrokedogg · 01-07-2008, 11:09 AM

i would just unplug one of the sensors or pull the fuse for the ABS to disable the system. that would make it safe to drive in the mean time

on that equinox the wheel sensors are intergrated into the wheel bearings so they will endup replacing the whole bearing

barrelhorses · 01-07-2008, 10:30 PM

I wonder if that would fall under the extended warranty that I bought with the car? I know that some items are excluded as they are normal wear and tear items. Unfortunately, all my warranty information is in the car at the dealership. Either way, I'll certainly try to have the bill paid under the warranty if at all possible. Bottom line, though, is I want the car to be safe for my wife and son regardless of what it costs.

barrelhorses · 01-08-2008, 10:13 PM

Problem was a speed sensor in one of the wheels. The extended warranty will cover the repair. Should be back in business tomorrow.