So after struggling with the ABS Light/TCS Off Light, I have learned some things and I feel that I should share it with anyone who has similar problems as I had to learn a lot of this on my own and the information was not readily available to me.
So, if you have a 97-03 Grand Prix, this information will be useful.
For 1997 Grand Prixs, the EBCM is totally different, so this information MAY not apply to you guys. Check this link: http://www.grandprixforums.net/abs.php
Suppose you have the warning lights, you have checked wheel hub bearings, wiring, etc. and still cannot figure out what the problem is, it could be the EBCM, or the electronic brake control module located on the face of your ABS pump/modulator located under the hood on the driver side.
Common symptoms of EBCM failure include but are not limited to: ABS warning light, TCS Off light, stiffening of power steering due to the loss of Magnasteer's Variable Effort Steering (because it works off of wheel speed information), etc.
You should know that EBCMs for the Grand Prixs are NOT all the same. First, you should get your ABS system scanned. Most shops can scan the system for anywhere from $40-90 bucks. However, I had one of these scans and they said the scanner wouldn't connect and shrugged their shoulders at me. So I took it to the dealer. Most GM dealerships will charge $100 for the scan and diagnosis, trust me, it's worth it. They have the tools to scan the system, and test various components of the system to rule out other culprits.
Well, turns out I had "EBCM internal malfunction." The dealer charges $999.02 for this part. Part number for the 99 (some 98s will be the same) - 03 GTPs only will be 88894774. Here are some known places to find this part new: Summit Racing ? High Performance Car and Truck Parts l Edelbrock, ACCEL, Moroso, K&N, MSD, Holley & More! , GM Parts Direct: Your direct source for Genuine GM Parts , or RockAuto Auto Parts slightly cheaper than the dealer's price. You have some other options:
You can buy used, but be careful!! *If your Bosch part number ends in 135, 285, 358, 573, or 451, your replacement module will need to be recoded by your dealer or DIY using VagCom. This procedure is performed after your replacement module is installed in order to configure it to your vehicle. This service typically takes an hour or less, so plan on paying your dealer's hourly labor rate for the procedure.
If all that checks out, great, get you a used one and good luck to you!
IF NOT, you have yet another option. You can get it rebuilt. The rebuild price for the Grand Prix's EBCM runs around the same price as used EBCMs at local scrap yards, at least that I have found. The price for it is $160. You can check it all out at ModuleMaster They basically replace and upgrade the known to fail components and make it a higher quality and longer-lasting product than a brand new one.
Additional Notes:
For 1999 and up GPs a common failure item is the EBCM module which is located at the front of the ABS motor pack/modulator assembly below the master cylinder where you see that big electrical connector going to it. Expensive part but there are companies on the NET that repair them at a much lower cost.
The EBCM is the same for all GTP's from 1999-2003. The part number is 88894774 and runs $789.37 dealer wholesale. Actual dealer retail is over $1,000. The part is GTP specific, so one for a like year GT or SE will not work for your car. I would say $199 is an awesome price.
However, some 98 models will have the 99-03 design, it depends.
Installation Procedure can be found here: http://sm.gpona.com:9001/si/showDoc....de=&cellId=954
Good luck and I hope this information will be useful! I will be posting pictures and adding a write-up on how to replace the EBCM.
Information combined from ModuleMaster as well as my various internet resources.
Also, if anyone has any questions or anything, you can PM me and I will do my best to help. I am currently awaiting my rebuilt ebcm, so I will keep this thread updated.
UPDATE: I got my EBCM back rebuilt from ModuleMaster and installed it today (sorry, no write up, was in a hurry but i'll be glad to type up instructions if anyone needs) and all the lights were out instantly. Hoorayy!
