ABS Problem w/ '92 Pontiac Sunbird

Hello, I have a 1992 Pontiac Sunbird SE Coupe. I have recently had major problems with the rear drum brakes. It almost feels like I have NO ABS system, when it is labeled on the back of my trunk, as well as written in the car's manual. I have replaced the drums about 3 times. Had them cut, put back into round and check a total of 5 times. The time and $ money spent is rediculous, but I still just barely stop at red lights, etc. I am worried I may need a whole new brake system. Any thoughts?

Early ABS systems do had alot of flaws. Do you mean that your back brakes are not working at all.... are you stopping on pavement or ice... do you feel a pulse under the pedal of you are on ice trying to stop? all ABS does is make you stop from sliding.

It is worst during when it rains, but lately it has been during all weather. I feel no pulse when I hit the brake pedal, but it feels as if the drums grab before the front discs do. Thus causing my back end to literally come off the ground hopping to a stop. It is quite scary and I have no idea why this started happening. Thanks for replying, hope to hear more!


3.1L
V6
SE Coupe

might be callipers on you front brakes. Or your pistons.

Okay, I hate to do this, but can you explain? I know a little about cars, and most of what I know about my brakes has been told to me from my mechanic or my father. I'm 21 and a girl but not stupid, just not fully educated on this. Can you explain?

I would suspect one of two things:

1. Improperly installed brake shoes - the leading shoe should be the thicker one.

2. Fluid leaks - any brake fluid on the shoes (from the wheel cylinders) will soak in like a sponge, they cannot be "fixed" at this point - they must be replaced.

Both of these problems will cause the back brakes to lock up easily.

Thank you! This is been such an on-going problem that I haven't drove my car for the last three weeks. I just don't know what to do. Any thoughts as to whether or not I should drop by a dealership and see what they think?

Someone needs to look at it - but dealerships can be pricey, I would try a brake and muffler shop, they should give a free diagnosis and estimate.

Thank you! Just so I am clear, could the front brakes have been overlooked as the main problem?

I doubt it, but the shop should check all the brakes while they are at it.

Thanks again...One more question, has their ever been a recall on ANY Pontiac Sunbird? For any reason? (Obviously wondering about the brakes, but anything I am curious about as welll)

Try this:

http://www.sourcenet.ca:9001/servlets/Home

Thank you to everyone :) I will post again to say once it is fixed or the car dumped. But let's hope that doesn't happen...Thank you again!