no that is bulls**t as it would say pads low in the dash, this will probably be due to a snapped, corroded wire, they are very easily fitted 5 min job. it plugs onto the back of the brake caliper, abs means anti-locking brakes which prevents them from skidding as the go on and off very quickly so i would take it to a better garage to get it checked out mate
mark, April 2009