Recently, the rear ABS trouble light turned on on my 1992 Ford Explorer 4x4. What is most likely the problem?

Question

I rebuilt a lot of the braking system last fall. The e-brake is new. The pads, rotors and drums are all new. The rear brake lines are new. The master cylinder is new. I am only going to keep this car for another 6 months or so. If this problem isn't likely to give me trouble while driving -- I would rather not fix it.

Answer 1

That would be a indication that the the sensor in one of the rear wheels could be faulty. A computer scan will determine what the problem is. The only problem it would give you while driving is if you have to slam on brakes, the brakes will lock up instead of giving you "controlled braking"

Answer 2

Watch out as some were 4 wheel abs and some were just two wheel abs.

but I agree with a lot of people.. on RWAL only systems, usually the problem was rear speed sensor (most likely problem and under $20 from the dealer) and in some cases the RWAL ABS valve went out..

To diag the system, is just shorting to ground a wire to get the codes.

A fast way to diag without pulling codes for just an idea is how long it takes for the ABS light to come on

If it's almost as soon as the engine statrts and goes past it's 5 second checkout and stays on, you got serious problems... IF it takes you to roll about 10 mph before setting I'd say the sensor but an accurate diag or just replacing the speed sensor should give you some ideas.

Answer 3

It won't give you any trouble while driving it. The ABS system will just not work allowing the tail of the vehicle to drift out if you have to slam on the brakes for some reason.

Answer 4

The rear speed sensor. The abs has to be cleared with a computer tester.

Answer 5

Clean off the abs magnets on all 4 wheels.