My abs light came on about a month ago. I have had the brakes replaced by my husband and for all of about 10 minutes of driving time the light went out. Then once again it came back on. The Chilton manual mentioned that this is something that only the dealer can check and it must be put on the computer and diognosed. I am hoping to get a little insight as to what may be the problem and how much money I have to look at putting out. Any one have this problem or have you ran across this? I perfer being able to have hubbie fix as it is SSOOOO much cheaper. Any information would be GREATLY appreciated.

 

...Welcome to Ford Truck Enthusiasts! Please read the Guidelines, it will help you to navigate through and understand this site.
Stick around someone will be by shortly to answer your question.
We are happy you have chosen the best source for Fords!

Enjoy FTE....and
JOIN CLUB FTE -SUPPORT THE FORUMS!
…..See you on the boards.

 

What year is it? I have a 2000 v8 and i have the same situation. I have read on this board that sometimes the most likely cause is a bad speed sensor in the rear differential housing. Apparently its about a 10 or 15 dollar part and just requires being unbolted from the rear differential and replaced. I haven't got around to it but I figure since it's only 10 bucks or so, that would be the cheapest place to start chasing the problem at.

 

That's pretty funny that the Chilton manual says an ABS light can only be read through the computer by a dealer. The ABS light on the dash doesn't come from the computer. It comes right from the ABS controller - which is a computer on it's own, by definition, but it's not the PCM or the main car computer.

ABS light is a basic idiot light that just tells the mechanic to look at the system. I've heard of it coming on due to bad voltage regulators and the ABS itself id fine. But the most common cause I've seen sdo far is the diff sensors get dirty with metal shavings and send a false signal to the ABS controller. Try cleaning these first then replace if needed.

And since when is a dealer the only means of fixing a car? Come on. We don't have to believe it just because someon put it down on paper.

 

I have a 2000 explorer,my abs light was on. I replaced the rear differential speed sensor. this took care of the problem. Only a $20 part and very easy to replace.just disconnect wire,unbolt,and replace. if you need any further help let me know.

 

From: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...d.php?t=352392

'99 2WD XLT ABS Light - Problem Solved

Howdy Gang,

Let me begin by saying many thanks to those who contributed their Explorer "ABS light on" experiences. Your contributions enabled me to remove the rear speed sensor and repair my problem (my '99 XLT's rear sensor is mounted above the rear U-Joint, on the top front-side of the differential, and is held in place with a single 10mm bolt).

The original sensor failed at approximately 75,000 miles and, when removed, tested "open" (infinite resistance) with an ohm meter. The new sensor reads in the area of 1800 ohms. I was able to find the part at a local Auto Zone after the manager did a rather lengthy search. He eventually came up with a part made by Wells, with Auto Zone part number SU2175. It cost $11.99.

Following replacement, it took about two or three seconds after starting the engine and my ABS light was FINALLY extinguished after being lit for nearly 25,000 miles. Ahhhh, an instrument panel at peace with itself.

Anyway, thanks again to the many people whose earlier contributions made my effort both painless and inexpensive.

Warmest regards,

John

 

Cool. Glad it worked. Glad you didn't go the Chilton recommended route. Who needs a dealer anyway?

 

It is a 2002 and it has been having a funny sound when starting off in the back end. I will definatly get with my husband and let him read all the great suggestions given here and maybe we will get lucky and save a few bucks.
Thanks for the help

 

I've had the same problem with my 2000 Mountaineer 5.0 V8. I at first thought ABS wasn't working on it but I guess it's some glitch. I have the extended warrenty so I'll probably take it in to my dealer.