Long time since I've been here last. Recently (last 3 weeks, happened on two different days weeks apart), I've experienced intermittent activation of the ABS when I turn hard right when braking, regardless of speed and under relatively light braking conditions. Weather conditions are bare/dry, moderate temps, within minutes of starting short-duration, in-town errands (less than 2 miles). Problem still present after car is driven 10 miles, 60 mph (tires/wheels warm). No trouble-lights activated.

It doesn't occur when I turn hard left, regardless of brake pressure applied.

This smacks of sensor failure, but it's been suggested to me that it might be due to excess brake dust. I replaced my front brakes 2 years ago. Since I've been working from home, I don't drive my Volvo much (less than 1 tank of gas used every 4-6 months). My brakes are supposedly low dust type, however, they squeal nearly constantly, especially when cold or during cold weather. Irritating, but otherwise benign (I hope).

Feedback and suggested diagnostic steps suggestions would be *very* welcome.

Aside: without going into detail, I would like to know if it's possible to cause ABS failure through malicious action (I obviously have reason to suspect this or I wouldn't include this point).

Many thanks for your help in this matter!

What exactly does this fell like in the pedal? I'm having what sounds like a similar issue. Intermittent weird pulse and shudder when braking just as you describe. Sometimes at speed when I touch the pedal it sort of hangs up at the top of the travel then lets go and it feels normal. Other times it's fine until the car starts to slow down. Then the pedal pulses and has a strange scraping sound/feel.
A bad caliper make sense but it's not like anything I've seen b4.

Sounds like caliper so ck that first...

Due to relative inaction by your car, I would suspect a faulty caliper. I don't think it is possible for a non-mechanic to tamper with the ABS.
Please check any diagnostic codes also.
Brake dust is probably not the problem, but squeeling brakes can be. Try "burning" the corrosion off the rotor by lightly applying the brakes for about 100 yards with your left foot.

Klaus
--
Common sense trumps a PhD

Faulty caliper makes a lot of sense as probable cause; luckily it's a relatively easy fix. Thanks for the quick reply and for settling my mind about the chance of malicious mischief causing this problem. I will check the error codes and report back.

~S