Have you ever asked yourself why your Jaguar lacks the braking sensation that it is supposed to have? The issue could be a bad ABS accumulator. An ABS accumulator in your Jaguar is like a reservoir that stores the pressure required for the correct functioning of the ABS system. It helps to avoid locking of the brakes when the car is making emergency stops so that you can have better control over your Jaguar in these situations.
The accumulator is generally made of a hydraulic tank and a high-pressure compartment divided by a diaphragm. During braking, the hydraulic fluid pushes the gas in the high-pressure chamber and the energy stored is used in braking. Below is a checklist that will assist you in identifying the symptoms of a faulty ABS accumulator, as well as the measures to take to rectify the situation.
Symptoms of a Failing ABS Accumulator
- Increased Braking Distance: The first symptom that one should look out for when it comes to the ABS accumulator is a longer braking distance. If you notice that your Jaguar takes a longer time to stop as compared to before, then it could be a result of a low pressure in the ABS system. This is a very sensitive issue that requires urgent attention.
- ABS Warning Light: If you see an ABS warning light on your dashboard it simply means that there is something wrong with the ABS system. Even though this light may point to a multitude of problems, a faulty accumulator is more often the case. If this light is on, the vehicle should be taken to a professional technician for a check-up.
- Unusual Brake Pedal Feel: A failing ABS accumulator will make the brake pedal feel unusual in some way. You may also observe that the pedal is mushy and that is an indication that there is reduced hydraulic pressure. Or the pedal may be spongy, requiring more pressure to depress and apply the brakes properly.
- Noise from the ABS Pump: Sometimes, you may hear some strange sounds coming from the ABS pump; this may be an indication that the accumulator is on its way out. The ABS pump could run more often or produce a louder sound because it cannot create the hydraulic pressure needed. These noises are a signal that the ABS system is not functioning as it should be.
- ABS System Activation During Normal Braking: The ABS system is a feature that is supposed to be triggered in emergencies or during heavy braking to avoid locking the wheels. If the system turns on during normal braking, then this could be a sign of a faulty accumulator. This can result in a pulsation that you can feel on the brake pedal and an impression that it is not braking as smoothly as it should be.
What to Do If Your ABS Accumulator Is Failing
- Seek Professional Help: Suspension and braking systems are very important when it comes to the safety of Jaguar. If you have a feeling that your ABS accumulator is faulty, then it is advisable that you contact a professional mechanic. They know what needs to be done and have the equipment to make the corrections where needed.
- Regular Maintenance: The best way to avoid ABS accumulator failure is through routine checkups. Ensure you adhere to the maintenance schedule of your Jaguar and have the braking system checked often. This can assist in detecting problems that may occur and maintaining your car in a safe manner.
Contact Crowne Automotive For Your Jaguar’s Repairs In Hummelstown
If you are driving a Jaguar or you are looking 
for a reputable shop for your other luxurious European cars, then come to our garage at Crowne Automotive. For years, we have been providing Jaguar services to the residents of Hummelstown and our specialists also work with people from Hershey, Lebanon, Camp Hill, Palmyra, Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, Lancaster, Elizabethtown, and York, PA. If you see any of the symptoms mentioned above related to the ABS Accumulator, it is wise to have your car serviced by our skilled Jaguar service technicians. You can make an appointment by calling (717) 566-3033 now.