ATE MK100 – A new generation of ABS problems
Since their inception in 1906, ATE (now a brand of Continental) have become big players in the world of ABS control modules, and this was reinforced in 2010 when they introduced their revolutionary MK100 model. These sophisticated control modules expanded ATE’s already-extensive ABS catalogue with an entirely new generation, succeeding the popular MK61 and MK70. Unfortunately though, the MK100 isn’t without its faults, leaving owners searching for an ABS repair.
Unlike previous generations, ATE’s MK100 ABS unit included a host of integrated sensors and provided compatibility with the ever-changing landscape of the modern automotive industry. ATE did this by designing the MK100 in such a way that it can support advanced driver assistance systems, like adaptive cruise control and lane assist. Not only that, but ATE’s latest ABS is smaller, lighter and more powerful than ever before, with some internal components just 0.5mm wide. In this case though, the push for a more-compact design with added functionality, brought with it long-term fragilities.
Why did ATE introduce the MK100 ABS?
Following EU regulation changes in 2009, it became mandatory for all new models after 2011 and all vehicles registered after 2014 to be equipped with ESC (Electronic Stability Control).
The MK100 was designed with this new legislation in mind and offered full ESC capabilities as standard. This included the integration of a YAW sensor and a lateral acceleration sensor, which had previously been external to both the MK61 and MK70 – see the difference in size between the MK100 and MK61 below:
ATE were quick to market with their fully-ESC-equipped ABS module, making it a popular choice for big-name manufacturers like Ford and BMW. By 2015, the MK100 was commonplace in well-known vehicles like the 3 Series, Focus and first-generation Peugeot 208.
By accommodating for updated driver assistance systems like hill start and front assist, the MK61 began to be phased out in favour of the MK100, as these features became an expectation rather than a luxury. The MK100 began being rolled out in popular models, for example, VW equipped their iconic Golf model with the MK100 at the first opportunity, by including it in the 2012 Mk7. However, the VW Caddy was made to wait until a mid-generation facelift in 2015 before making the switch.
Although purpose-built to meet and exceed updated ESC legislation, ATE had an eye very much on the future with the MK100. Thanks to a combination of sophisticated internal hardware and intelligent software design, the MK100 ABS can even support regenerative braking - leading to its inclusion in electric and hybrid vehicles like the BMW i3 and hybrid Ford C-Max.
Unfortunately though, as advanced as ATE’s MK100 is, it’s not bulletproof. Failure of these intricate units has become increasingly common, but don’t worry, you’re in the right place if you’ve been affected.
How does the ATE MK100 ABS unit fail?
Failure of the MK100 has become a common occurrence due to a design flaw of the unit. When malfunction manifests itself, it prevents the control module from properly regulating hydraulic brake pressure, leading to significant braking issues.
The electronic control module mounted to the very bottom of the ATE MK100 does a great job of analysing wheel speed sensor data to quickly identify a wheel locking up under braking. This activates both the hydraulic block and pump motor to reduce pressure in the locking wheel, whilst simultaneously maintaining it in the other three wheels to ensure smooth braking. However, the aforementioned internal defect prevents the MK100 from properly regulating hydraulic pressure, disrupting this process and causing one or more wheels to bind under braking.
Even more concerningly, when this MK100 ABS malfunction manifests itself, it doesn’t trigger any warning lights or fault codes.
Failure might not occur in exactly the same way for every vehicle. For example, BMW models are equipped with a handy brake-drying feature which brushes the brake discs free of moisture in wet weather. However, disruption to the hydraulic braking system due to a malfunctioning MK100, causes the vehicle’s brakes to lock on when the wipers are activated. Find out more about this here.
ATE MK100 ABS: Repair or replace?
As failure occurs due to an internal defect, you’ll either need to repair or replace the MK100 to resolve your vehicle’s ABS issues.
Many owners opt to simply replace their ATE MK100 with a brand-new ABS module, however this isn’t cheap and it isn’t always effective either. When choosing this option, it’s not always considered that a replacement MK100 could carry the very same malfunction.
Worse still, replacement MK100s come with short-term warranty and aren’t always available straight away from ATE or the vehicle manufacturer. We think affected owners deserved better than this.
Our MK100 rebuilds – better than any other ABS repair
We propose a complete rebuild of your MK100 - this won’t just repair your wheel locking fault, but it’ll completely eradicate the defect from your ABS unit at its root. We’re the experts at this, and we’ve been restoring these units to perfect operating conditions for many years now.
We've carefully designed a test-and-rebuild process to provide a cost-effective and long-lasting solution for the ATE MK100. Our team of techs are well-versed in the latest remanufacturing techniques and equipment to accurately find and remedy faults every time. We even use higher-than-OEM-standard components when rebuilding to enhance unit durability.
Our process not only removes the defect, but prevents it from returning later down the line. Better still, it’s significantly cheaper than sourcing a replacement unit, and it comes with an unlimited-mile lifetime warranty.
Restore your ATE MK100 the smart way in just 2-3 working days. Fill out our short test form now to begin your ABS rebuild.
Common failure symptoms:
- Brakes locking/binding
- Callipers sticking
- Brakes applied by wiper activation (BMW only)
Which vehicles are fitted with the ATE MK100?
These ABS units are commonly found on vehicles made by Ford, BMW and VAG, leaving owners in need of a repair. However, almost all manufacturers will have at least one model equipped with the MK100 - check out our product catalogue for our entire range.
Ford
Ford introduced the ATE MK100 unit to their range via the sixth-generation Fiesta. The ABS module was equipped during the model’s first facelift in 2012. More recently, you can still find MK100 ABS units fitted to the fourth-generation Focus and the 2019 Kuga.
BMW
BMW initially installed ATE’s new ABS system on the second-generation 1 Series and sixth-generation 3 Series. They then quickly made use of the MK100’s compatibility with EVs by including the ABS in the i3 from release.
VAG
VAG have fitted the MK100 ABS to a plethora of their most-popular makes and models over the years. Most notably, it was included on the Mk7 Golf and third-generation A3 from release in 2012.
Videos:
How to diagnose:
Test and rebuild:
We’ll test your control module before and after the rebuilding process to ensure it is ready to return to action. We’ll even rebuild your MK100 with higher-than-OEM-standard components to further enhance durability.
Programming:
Unlike replacement ABS units, you’ll be able to refit your rebuilt MK100 as soon as you receive it back from us. This is because all programming information is retained throughout our process.
Quality:
We pride ourselves on our high-standard of work, this exemplified by our low defect rate of just 0.49%. This is just part of the reason we have become the chosen provider of automotive remanufacturing services for industry specialists worldwide.
Warranty:
Lifetime unlimited mileage*
How do I get my unit rebuilt?
To pay for the rebuild click the Shop Now link above, select your part number and click: Get yours rebuilt.
Print the payment/booking confirmation email.
Package the ATE MK100 inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received we will test, rebuild and return your MK100 with an unlimited mileage lifetime warranty. (if your unit turns out not to be faulty then we will refund your payment less a small testing fee and return shipping)
What if I don’t want to pay up front?
This is not a problem, if you prefer this option then follow these steps:
Fill in and submit this test form.
Print the booking confirmation email.
Package the ABS unit inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received, we will test your MK100 ABS and call you to advise on the outcome of testing, if your unit is faulty and you choose to go ahead with the rebuild then we will take payment over the phone using a debit/credit card.
We will then rebuild your control module and return it to you with an unlimited mileage warranty.
If you require further information regarding this ATE MK100 ABS then please contact us.