ABS/light flashes on and off

[joserw]

My ABS light (and subsequently my traction control light) come on sporadicaly and then turn off again. When I attempt to scan the ABS computer (with 2 different tools) it comes back with an error communicating with my system. The only time it read the ABS computer was when there is no light, and it came back with no codes stored.

Now, I recently had to stop REALLY short and I ended up getting a flat spot on my RF tire (+1 Hawk brakes). Now I can only assume there is something wrong with that wheel. I looked at the sprocket piece with the teeth and didn't see any physical damage. Should I just assume it is the wheel sensor and replace it?

I also don't understand why the scan tool won't read my ABS computer? Could it be because of my custom tune?

What would cause the light to come on and off and how come no codes are stored? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[the98stang]

My ABS light (and subsequently my traction control light) come on sporadicaly and then turn off again. When I attempt to scan the ABS computer (with 2 different tools) it comes back with an error communicating with my system. The only time it read the ABS computer was when there is no light, and it came back with no codes stored.

Now, I recently had to stop REALLY short and I ended up getting a flat spot on my RF tire (+1 Hawk brakes). Now I can only assume there is something wrong with that wheel. I looked at the sprocket piece with the teeth and didn't see any physical damage. Should I just assume it is the wheel sensor and replace it?

I also don't understand why the scan tool won't read my ABS computer? Could it be because of my custom tune?

What would cause the light to come on and off and how come no codes are stored? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

the light is coming off and on because the wheel sensors are dirty. You can try cleaning each one behind the wheel with a Q-tip and some electric cleaner. If the light doesn't stay off after the cleaning, then you need replace the sensor that is faulty. You will only be able to read the code using a special ABS reading device (this is why your scan tool won't work they only have them at the stealership)

 

[joserw]

So even though the tool has my vehicle programmed into it, I need a FORD ABS scan tool? How can that be?

Well, I will try cleaning the wheel sensors. Thank you.

 

[lazerred02]

the light is coming off and on because the wheel sensors are dirty. You can try cleaning each one behind the wheel with a Q-tip and some electric cleaner. If the light doesn't stay off after the cleaning, then you need replace the sensor that is faulty. You will only be able to read the code using a special ABS reading device (this is why your scan tool won't work they only have them at the stealership)

You sure about that?


I read ABS codes all the time with my Snap On Verus, it's not from the dealership....

 

[Shiroelex]

I know a standard OBDII tool won't read airbag or ABS codes. At my work, we use an OTC Genisys Evo scanner for those. I'd say preventative maintenance is your cheapest and best first step. Take your brake system apart at the wheels and give everything a nice good cleaning.

 

[lazerred02]

I know a standard OBDII tool won't read airbag or ABS codes. At my work, we use an OTC Genisys Evo scanner for those. I'd say preventative maintenance is your cheapest and best first step. Take your brake system apart at the wheels and give everything a nice good cleaning.

OTC Genisys is a good scan tool also, and yes your average cheap handheld scan tool will not read ABS.

 

[joserw]

I have one of those cheap Actron scanners... but even the scanner at my mechanic's scanner didn't work.