ABS Controller dead

[Maddey]

The other day I stopped at a stop light and the brake and ABS light came on. When I turned off the engine the ABS pump was still running and the only way to stop it was to disconnect the battery. I called the dealer and spoke to one of the service people and he told me that the relay in the ABS computer has gone out and the only way to fix this was to buy another computer ($312. 00). He also told me how to disconnect the pump so it wouldn't run anymore and that my brakes would operate just fine, I just wouldn't have ABS anymore. Well, my truck has 43K on it so they told me it would not be covered under warranty, however, they said this is very rare and after calling another dealer, they told me they had never replaced one of these computers.



Anybody ever run into this problem? I really don't see why I should have to pay for something that is designed to last the life of the vehicle. The ABS computer is designed by Kelsey-Hayes. I have tried to find another source to buy one of these, but have not had much luck. I even tried the local salvage yard, but the truck they had used a different model ABS computer. I have not contacted Dodge on this yet, just wanted to get some other opinions on this. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.



Thanks,

Rick

 

[john3976]

Your out of warranty, parts break, heck even Cummins have blown up early before, any part can break.



If you were concerned about having to pay for repairs for your truck you should have bought the extended warranty.



I bought the extended warranty on my Dodge and after the years or miles are up I understand that it is now on my dime.



Why do so many think the manufacture must pay for all repairs forever?

 

[dunderkofler]

You can find the controller cheaper at dodgeparts.com. Mine was replaced for a different reason (under warranty).



Dale

 

[Maddey]

John3976, while I find your wisdom insightful, the purpose of the post was not to say that manufacturers should have to replace or pay for all of the problems with their products. There was a little frustration written in that post and I simply felt like this should have never happened in the first place. Thank you pointing out the obvious though. I have replaced many parts on the last four dodges that I have owned in the past and I am my own warranty station. However, when a part goes out and even the dealers that I have called find it odd and tell me they very rarely ever replace on of these because of the relay going out, I get a little frustrated that I need to buy a new one.



Dunderkofler, thanks for the site. Hopefully they can help me out.