How to Install an ABS Relay in a Pontiac Grand Am

You have to change the ABS relay in your Pontiac Grand Am when the ABS warning light is lit on the driver control panel display. It is usually impossible to stop a car that has a malfunctioning ABS relay as the relay controls the entire anti-lock brake system.

Instructions

1

Park the Pontiac Grand Am. Set the parking brake. Open the hood and secure it using the safety bar.

2

Disconnect the negative battery cable (the black one) by loosening the nut on the clamp using an adjustable wrench.

3

Take off the quarter panel trim under the steering wheel by unscrewing the screws on both sides of the panel with a Phillips screwdriver. Look for the black protective box marked ABS. Remove this protective box by unbolting the four bolts using a 6mm hex socket. You should see the black relay.

4

Unhook the wiring harness on the bottom of the relay by pressing the buttons on the side of the harness. Gently pull down on the harness while you are pressing the buttons. Once this is disconnected, remove the two mounting fasteners using a 6mm hex socket.

5

Place the new ABS relay in the place from which you just removed the malfunctioning relay. Secure it by replacing the mounting fasteners. Tighten them with the socket.

6

Plug the wiring harness into the bottom of the relay. Replace the protective box and secure it by replacing the bolts. Replace the quarter panel trim and tighten the screws.

7

Reconnect the negative battery cable. Tighten the nut on the clamp. Close the hood. Start the car. Look for the ABS warning light. If it remains off, test drive your car by driving slowly and trying to stop. If it comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic to service the system.