1999 Ranger 3.0L 2WD - ABS Light on but no codes.

[Danh72]

I recently bought this truck and got it running after it sat for 7 years so I don't know if the ABS Light was lit before it was disabled but after I repaired it and installed a new battery I noticed the ABS light would come on, turn off after a few seconds and then come on few more seconds later. I used an ELM327 ODB2 Blue Tooth Scanner and it is not pulling any codes. I am not sure how to proceed., The Truck uses R-ABS. Thanks!

 

[sgtsandman]

What kind of code reader are you using? Any old code reader won’t pull ABS codes, if there is any. If it doesn’t have that capability, that may be why you aren’t getting any codes.

As far as the issue, if I remember correctly, the RABS unit is usually the problem.

 

[Danh72]

What code reader is recommended? I'm asking for future reference. Is there a WiFi or Bluetooth software package?

I resolved the issue with the ABS by replacing the VSS on the Differential. I have yet to verify that the Speedometer is working but I expect it will work too. It seems my model year uses the VSS for the ABS and the Speedometer.

Thanks!

 

[sgtsandman]

I have been using an old school Actron and Scan Gauge II code readers and haven't upgraded yet. Look for one with ABS and air bag functions. Both use different systems than the standard code reader can support. Some people have just gotten the free Forescan software and either a direct cable or a blue tooth plug but I can't remember which blue tooth plug is the favorite.

 

[Danh72]

@sgtsandman

Thank you for the info! I will start looking for one.

 

[cbxer55]

Mine has been on for years, covered with a piece of black tape. It was off until I changed the brake light switch, then all of the sudden, it was on. Doesn't cause me any issues at all. I drive in the rain, snow and ice. Never had it g et away from me.

 

[StewieNC]

For future reference:

OBD scanners will not work for ABS diagnostics. There is a specific two wire connector behind the right side kick panel that is used for this procedure. Disconnect the connector and then ground one side of the connector, this will cause the ABS light to flash. Count the number of flashes and this equates to a diagnostic code. I do not have all of the specifics in front of me, but I am sure you can find the codes in older posts in this forum. I will dig up the codes when I have time. One other tip, it will not flash a code if the emergency brake is engaged.

 

[Danh72]

@StewieNC - Thanks for the info. When you say right side kick panel, do you mean the right side of the drivers seat or the passengers? Thanks again!

 

[Curious Hound]

By the way. Low brake fluid level will cause that light to come on. Have you checked the reservoir?

 

[sgtsandman]

@StewieNC - Thanks for the info. When you say right side kick panel, do you mean the right side of the drivers seat or the passengers? Thanks again!

Right side of the vehicle. So, passenger foot well on the right side.