Today my 2006 1LT with ABS started having a problem. Just as the car is about to come to a complete stop the ABS briefly activates. I recognize this from other cars that I have had this issue with as a failing ABS sensor. It starts at low speed, the ABS sensor misses pulses which the system translates as wheel lockup. There are no error coders or lights, as the system thinks its working correctly and responding to wheel lockup.

The question is, which wheel sensor is it? Do I have to take it to a shop which can monitor signals while driving and identify which wheel is sending the erroneous ABS signals?

On my other cars, I was able to replace the sensors for a reasonable price. On our HHRs the sensor is part of the wheel hub, so I can't just replace all of them ($$).

Steve

 

You can check the connections for loose or dirt!

 

A good shop will have a OBD2 reader capable of reading ABS faults. However; the ABS does not store errors but it can do real time reading. In other words: only an experienced technician knows how to do it.

Other things to consider: Brake adjustment, brake wear, all of the suspension bushings.

You just said "WTF do bushings have to do with anything?"

A bad bushing can allow a wheel stop before the others. It can drag while the others are still slowing down.