98 ABS Brake Light Stay On

[stopmenot2002]

Hi Everyone, I need help on 98 continental, After I het a pothole while driving, the ABS light came on and stay but the braking is normal after that. Is there anything I can do to shut off that warningg light, Any input is appreciated Thankx For reading .

[xjoeharperx]

sounds like you have some damaged wiring for a wheel sensor..you need to have it checked out...

[ONEBADMK8]

Reset the battery via the negative cable and see if the light goes out.

Since you suffered a blunt trauma with the ground I would bet, like xjoeharperx mentioned, the ABS sensor could very well be broke. It would be obvious upon a visual inspection.

[stopmenot2002]

Thankx Very good input, I 'll reset the computer and check out the sensor. Thankyou for all input. I'll let you guy know an update.

[Gavin Curtis]

There is also a problem with all 96 and newer Continentals pertaining to a defect in their ABS control module. The problem will eventually occur after a 4-7 year timeframe, but can be prematurely triggered by sudden physical shock.

The module is repairable if the problem is not found to be a sensor.... but a problem with the control module.

It can be repaired for $150.00 and should never fail in the same manner again. I have repaired many of the modules with the exact problem you presented. Usually an intermittent ABS or TRACS lamp... but a sudden bump or big pothole... will usually do the module in when nearing its failure point.

email me at [email protected]

[Towncar]

Originally Posted by Gavin Curtis

It can be repaired for $150.00....
I have repaired many of the modules.....[/email]

I'd be interested to hear the details on this repair.

[Gavin Curtis]

First make sure that the module is the problem and not any of the sensors etc. A scan tool will immediately identify if the module is at fault. Sometimes the module can cause engine stalling and erratic operation of instrument cluster as well! Usually the communication circuitry or pump motor controller goes bad. In extreme circumstances, the module will not respond to the diagnostics scan tool.

The repair for the Lincoln ABS modules is usually on ebay. The link for the current service:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...spagename=WDVW

Or go to ebay and type "ABS REPAIR". The Ford/Lincoln ABS repair will be in the list.

The module removes very easily, but takes a special tool not readily available at all hardware stores to fit the bolts. If you desire to get the module rebuilt and you cannot locate the tool to remove it to send, I will be happy to send a tool for you.

No brake lines have to be disconnected and the job is fairly clean and straightforward. The module provides data (vehicle speed etc) for the vehicle's control system, so you will have to arrange for a different vehicle to drive while the module is being rebuilt.

Repairs are 1 day turn around on these modules.

[Towncar]

Gavin..
When you say "erratic cluster operation..." have you ever seen one where the speedometer wanders from 0-120mph while in Park ??

My 1996 has ABS light on, and wandering speedo.

I will eventually have the codes read from the system but I was wondering if you have ever seen this.

[Gavin Curtis]

Sounds like it could definitely be the ABS module's serial port going bad.

The ABS module does supply vehicle speed information from the wheel sensors. That information is then transmitted over the vehicle's serial data bus to the instrument cluster, cruise control/body module and engine control computer.

When the ABS module your vehicle fails... usually ABS light comes on with TRACs warning lamp (if traction control equipped). Then as time progresses, speedo will misread and eventually other systems in the vehicle will be affected.

As the ABS module continues to deteriorate, it eventually disrupts the entire serial data bus... affecting all other systems in the car.