ABS, airbag and electrical
ABS control module repair or replacement: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $300 | $1,200 |
| Labor: 2 to 3 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $250 | $525 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $50 |
| Total, rounded | $550 | $1,775 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
The ABS module manages braking during slips. A bad one causes the ABS and traction lights, and sometimes brake pedal feel issues.
What is usually included
- New, remanufactured or repaired module
- Bleed the brakes
- Programming with a scan tool
- Clear codes
- Test drive
What moves the price
- Rebuilt module versus a new one from the dealer
- Programming needs
- Brake bleed
- Brand, since some modules need dealer software
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is a repair or remanufactured module an option?
- Does it need programming?
- Wiring and connectors that may be the real problem
- Does the module come with a warranty, and who covers programming?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a DIY; the module must be programmed to your car and the brake system bled, and mistakes can leave you with weak brakes.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
Can I drive with the ABS light on?
Normal brakes usually still work, but ABS and stability control won't. Take extra care in wet weather.
Are repairs cheaper than replacement?
Sometimes. Some companies rebuild ABS modules for less than a new unit. Ask if a repair option is available and what warranty comes with it.
Why is programming needed?
A new or used module must be matched to your car so it talks to other systems. That requires a scan tool, and some brands need dealer-level software.
How much does abs control module repair or replacement cost?
A typical range in Boston is $550 to $1,775. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $550 to $1,775 |
| New York City area | $540 to $1,750 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $540 to $1,775 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $530 to $1,725 |
| Houston area, Texas | $510 to $1,700 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $510 to $1,700 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $520 to $1,700 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $530 to $1,725 |
| Miami area, Florida | $510 to $1,700 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $550 to $1,775 |