Questions and Answers

Pontiac Sunfire ABS Light, Grinding Q. I have been having issues with the ABS light on my 2000 Pontiac Sunfire ST. When I start the car no light, however, after about 60 seconds the light comes on and stays on, even at low speeds 8-15 mph. Up until yesterday no issues so I ignored the light. However, now I'm noticing noisy braking, grinding, which goes away when the ABS light comes on and the car is pulling slightly to the right.

I checked the tire pressure, which was fine and the pulling is only at high speeds +50 mph. The dealer wants to charge me $119.00 to diagnose, can I avoid this charge?

• 2000 Pontiac Sunfire ST
• 2.2 liter
• Manual transmission
• 25,000 miles or 55,000 kilometers
• Fuel Injected
• ABS brakes
• P/S, no A/C or Cruise
• Rack and pinion steering

Thanks,
Kate

A. We are talking brakes here! This is no area to be afraid to pay to have problem diagnosed properly. I think you have a couple of issues. Grinding is usually a sign of brakes going metal to metal. This means your pads are down to nothing and starting to eat away at the rotors. NOT GOOD!

As for the ABS light, you will need to have it scanned to see what trouble codes are stored first. Take it to a Pontiac Dealer for your best chance at a quality diagnosis.