Bendix Upgrades Trailer ABS With Smarter Diagnostics
The new iTABS X system replaces Bendix's TABS-6 Standard trailer ABS, adding faster diagnostics and connectivity that could help fleets identify brake-system problems before they lead to downtime.
Bendix's new iTABS X trailer ABS adds faster diagnostics and CAN connectivity, giving fleets more detailed information about brake-system problems and maintenance needs.
Bendix product photo / HDT illustration created with ChatGPT
Bendix is updating its trailer anti-lock braking system technology, giving fleets access to more detailed brake-system diagnostics and the ability to share that information through trailer telematics.
The new Bendix iTABS X Standard SC replaces the company's TABS-6 Standard trailer ABS. It adds controller area network (CAN) communication, so maintenance teams can access more detailed information about trailer braking systems and potentially identify problems faster.
The system became available through original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket channels in August. Bendix announced the new technology Nov. 11 as part of a broader overhaul of its trailer braking portfolio.
“Bendix iTABS X reflects the first step in the evolution of our trailer ABS portfolio,” said Jon Intagliata, Bendix vice president for aftermarket and trailer. “We've modernized the platform with new diagnostic and connectivity capabilities that will help fleets operate more efficiently while preparing for the next generation of trailer technologies.”
More Data From Trailer Brakes
The big change isn't in how the ABS operates, but in how it communicates information about the system.
iTABS X retains Bendix's two-sensor, one-modulator (2S/1M) trailer ABS architecture while adding 5-volt CAN communication using the SAE J1939 standard.
Traditional power line communication (PLC) can alert fleets to an ABS fault. CAN allows the system to transmit more detailed diagnostic and performance information, including component-level status and diagnostic trouble codes.
According to Bendix, CAN can transmit data 25 times faster than PLC. When connected to a compatible telematics system, it can also make that information available to fleet maintenance personnel in near-real time.
That could help technicians narrow down problems before a trailer arrives in the shop, instead of spending time tracking down the source of an ABS warning.
The system also supports standard diagnostic tools and plug-in connections for service and troubleshooting.
The technology fits into a broader trend toward using trailer telematics to monitor brakes, tires and other components, rather than relying on drivers to report problems.
What's Next for Bendix Trailer Brakes?
Bendix said the iTABS X platform is designed to support additional trailer safety and control technologies.
In 2027, the company plans to introduce iTEBS X Advanced SC, which will add roll-stability functionality and other trailer control capabilities.
The current iTABS X Standard SC system is compatible with existing trailer ABS applications. Bendix is offering aftermarket conversion kits with the components needed to transition from TABS-6 Standard.
The company also redesigned the unit's housing, incorporating a one-piece construction and side exhaust vent intended to improve durability in demanding environments, including intermodal trailers and chassis exposed to water, road spray and contaminants.
Bendix will manufacture the system at its Acuña, Mexico, facility, which produces a range of commercial vehicle braking and air-system components.
The company said information about aftermarket conversion kits is available in document PNU-319 in the document library at B2Bendix.com.
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