If you think you are having problems with the ABS system in your 2002 Dodge pickup truck, there are several inspections you can complete on the brake system and one test you can complete to determine whether you should have your ABS brake system repaired by a qualified mechanic. To complete the troubleshooting, you will need only basic tools.
Open the hood of your Dodge pickup truck and locate the master cylinder. It is on the driver's side firewall. Inspect the "fill line" on the side of the master cylinder. If the brake fluid is lower than the fill line, the ABS system could react incorrectly during an emergency stop. Fill the master cylinder using DOT5 brake fluid until it reaches the fill line.
Place a jack under the truck's frame, directly behind the driver's side front wheel. Jack the vehicle up and place it on a jack stand. Remove the lug nuts securing the wheel to the vehicle using the tire iron supplied with the truck and then pull the wheel off. Inspect the brake pad. You should have at least 1/2 inch of brake pad left on both pads. If you do not, the brake pads are worn out. This could cause the ABS system could react incorrectly during an emergency stop. After placing the tire back on the vehicle, check the rear brake on the driver's side in the same manner. The brakes on the passenger side will match the thickness of the brakes on the driver's side, so there is no need to repeat the process on the passenger side.
Accelerate the Dodge pickup truck to 25 mph in an empty parking lot when the pavement is wet. Press on the brake pedal as you would during an emergency stop. The vehicle should not slide, and you should feel a pulsating in the brake pedal accompanied by a clicking sound. If the vehicle slides, the ABS is not working properly. Complete this step only after you confirm the fluid and brake pads are adequate.
