ABS module removal

A6 All/ S6 All
#1

I just got around to removing the abs module in my S6 and just wanted to share my experience since I can only seem to find posts related to the A6.

As far as I can tell, I don’t think there is a way to do this without removing the brake lines from the pump. I watched a couple videos from cheapabs, and it looks like the setup is slightly different on the S6. The abs pump has two lines that run right behind the abs module, so even if you were able to make enough space to remove the fasteners on the module, I don’t see a way that you could separate the module from the pump.

Even after removing the lines, it was a pain getting the pump out. The lines are all over the place and the unit is right up against the body. I had to removed the bolts on the bracket for the abs pump and the power steering reservoir to get a bit more space to swing the unit around. A long flat blade helped to pop the rubber mount out of the bottom of the bracket. After lots of swearing, it did eventually come out though. We will see how it goes back in and the bleeding process.

Has any one else done this job? I’m sure there is a better way, but sometimes you just gotta figure it out on the spot.

#2

I recently did went the same route you did. i tried every way i could to remove it without removing the lines, just can’t do it. Ended up breaking off that black plastic piece with the copper pins in it trying to remove without removing the lines. I think this is one of those times where shortcuts just aren’t worth the trouble. Had the module repaired, replaced it in about 30 minutes. No issues with brake bleeding, all bleeder valves loosened without any issues. It’s very nice not to have the dash lights and sounds every time you start off. One think i did do was have some vacuum caps ready to keep the brake fluid from the lines going everywhere.

#3

Nice to hear from someone with similar experience! For the brake bleed, did you bleed the abs pump? Or just the normal bleed procedure? Did you use a power bleeder? Reassuring to hear that it fixed your issue as well.

#4

Did not bleed the pump, I did use a vacuum pump to bleed/flush the lines to start, but was pulling a tiny bit of air from the bleeder screws using the pump, so I resorted to having someone pushing the pedal to finish bleeding. I used almost a full quart of fluid.