Description & Operation

NOTE: For information on specific ABS components for 1997 Cutlass and Malibu, see 1997 BRAKES GENERAL MOTORS CORP. - ANTI-LOCK/TCS - ABS-VI article. For information on specific ABS components for 1998 and 1999 Cutlass and Malibu, see ANTI-LOCK/TCS - ABS-VI article.

Front brakes are disc and rear brakes are drum. Disc brakes are continually self-adjusting. Rear brakes are self adjusting. Parking brake is cable operated and should not need adjustment.

Hydraulic system is diagonally split, so system will still operate if one side loses pressure. Master cylinder has fluid level sensor located in reservoir. Proportioning valve is mounted on ABS hydraulic unit. Proportioning valves regulate hydraulic pressure between rear and front brakes for optimum braking.

BRAKE warning light comes on when one or more of the following conditions exist:

Parking brake is applied or not fully released.
Fluid level in master cylinder reservoir is low.
During engine cranking. A bulb check is performed to indicate that the warning circuit is operational.