Ask an expert
I have a 1997 Honda Legend JHMKA model, ex Singapore, with 160k kms on the clock. It developed a fault with the ABS brake system which has been diagnosed by Honda dealer as a high pressure leakage in the modulator assembly.
Suspect fault with leaking solenoids or pressure relief valve inside the modulator. Their remedy is to replace the modulator at around $2500, plus labour. The car is only worth around $6,000, so not really an option.
I have priced a second hand modulator for $800, with a 2 yr warranty. Given that the second hand one might be due to fail at a similar mileage/age, I would rather pay to have the modulator fixed. I found a company that fixes some modulators, but they can't do mine.
Do you know if there is a way the modulator can be repaired? Or is there a way I can get a repair kit and do it myself? (in conjunction with my mechanic)
John
From the "Ask Jack" archives - 18 September 2008
This problem is not unusual for Honda's of this age.
The biggest challenge is getting a mechanic who knows how to repair them properly and at a reasonable cost.
If you live in Auckland then you are lucky, there is a guy who has Honda blood running through his veins and specialises in these types of repairs.
I have spoken to him today and he believes he can fix the ABS for around $800.
Forget second hand parts you are wasting your money in my opinion.
Phone Andrew Short 027 448 1566.
His workshop is in East Tamaki.
Hi there,
My family has a 97 Honda Odyssey and I take it to Honda dealer to renew the WOF today. I am advised the ABS is at fault and the vehicle is therefore failed the WOF. They then run the error check and they said either the accumulator or modulator need to be replaced.
The cost to replace the accumulator is around $390 (part only) but the cost to replace the modulator is $4500 (part only). Is it true that the the cost can be substantially different between accumulator and modulator? What is the different between accumulator and modulator?
The Honda dealer has advised me to replace the modulator as they cannot guarantee the ABS problem will be fixed after they replace the accumulator.
Your advice will be much appreciate.
Kind Regards
Clarissa
While this may be the only way the dealer can guarantee a repair, it does not necessarily mean that both components are faulty. Having said that, it is entirely possible that they are both at fault, so the dealer is reluctant to replace the accumalator by itself as in the event that this does not fix the problem you will hold him responsible.
As the vehicle is now of an age where the cost of replacing both parts with new items will equate to the entire value of the vehicle, perhaps an after-market solution is worth considering. There are a number of brake specialists who are able to offer an alternative solution at a much lower cost.
In answer to your quetion about what the two components do, essentially, the accumilator maintains system pressure and the modulator controls the pulsating of the ABS braking system.
Hi there
Thanks for your advice on the 97 Honda Odyssey. You have mentioned we can go with the after-market solution. Would you be able to advise what are the after-market solution? what would I be expected from them? How are they going to fix the issues I had with the ABS fault?
In addition, I wonder if you are able to recommend some good brake specialists to me so I can get in touch with them to find out more details.
Thanks for your help.
Kind Regards
Clarissa
A brake specialist we spoke to tells us there is a combined unit available for around $1,000. There is sure to be a brake specialist local to you. Where are you located in New Zealand?
Hi there
I am located in West Harbour, Auckland.
A combined unit, is it included both accumulator and modulator?
Thanks for your help.
Regards
Clarissa
The combined unit incorporates both components.
Email to aatech@aa.co.nz for more information.