2002 Ford Windstar Brake/ABS lights on

[DavidChen]

Hi there,

I have a 2002 Ford Windstar and around 100K. Recently, the Brake/ABS lights on.

Per my wife, in the morning it seems to be OK - no lights. It starts afternoon the weather is very warm in TX and the Brake/ABS lights on.

Brake pads replaced 12-month ago. Any safety concern?

Do I need bring it to dealer to check? Any cost saving suggestion?

Thanks in advance.

David

[garync1]

Does your lights reset after restarting the van.? This is a common issue with these vans. Mine does it on hot days.. After talking with some Ford mechanics they said from what they have seen its a problem with the ABS module and should not effect the Braking system but you will not have ABS when the lights are on. I have notice if I turn in to a side road fairly quickly and the lights are on you will lock up and start sliding straight.. Now this was my own little test i have done just to see what was going own with the ABS system. Now as for the ABS Module in runs about 600.00 bucks installed. Depends on where you live.. As long as you can reset the lights i would not worry.. I have reset mine when I have came to a stop light and shut the van off fully and restarted and lights went away..Also check and make sure your brake fluid level is normal. The wearing of the brakes pads well cause fluid to get low. But you get an E brake light only in that case. But it does not hurt to check out any way. To fill I use a small cup that will fit under the hood because the bottle most of the time will not fit.. I use the very small type dixie cup to fill my brake fluid back up.. Hope this helps,Gary

[2k3windstar]

Here is a similar thread:
http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...32#post5763232

[Pot Hole]

Two questions:

If I pull the two 40-amp fuses on the ABS module circuit, what will happen other than I will no longer have ABS?

Secondly, can you by-pass the ABS module or install a jumper at the fuse box that will trick the computer into thinking the ABS module is OK?

[northern piper]

you also need to pull the wheels off and make sure that the exciter ring (the notched black wheel around the hub) is clean. Sometimes the get gunked up with road grime etc. Also, the pick up for the exciter ring needs to be washed. Do this and the fluid check before replacing the abs unit.

Piper