FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Fifth Generation (2011-2019)/my Ford Explorer ABS light is on and traction control disabled what does it mean

my Ford Explorer ABS light is on and traction control disabled what does it mean

Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
514 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix ABS light and traction control issues in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before working on any components.

Symptoms

  • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Traction control warning light illuminated or system disabled
  • •Reduced braking performance in slippery conditions
  • •Erratic or inconsistent braking behavior
  • •Increased wheel slip during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific ABS faults.
  2. 2Inspect the ABS fuse for continuity and replace if blown.
  3. 3Check the ABS wheel speed sensors for damage or dirt accumulation.
  4. 4Verify the condition of the ABS control module connections and wiring for corrosion or loose connections.
  5. 5Inspect brake fluid level and condition, ensuring it is within specifications.
  6. 6Test the ABS system using a scan tool to see if the module responds correctly during a self-test.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather required tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the vehicle battery to ensure safety.
  • Allow the vehicle to cool if it has been running.

2. Inspect and Clean Wheel Speed Sensors

  • Remove wheel covers and tires if necessary to access wheel speed sensors.
  • Disconnect the electrical connector from each wheel speed sensor.
  • Clean the sensor and mounting area using brake cleaner to remove debris and corrosion.
  • Reconnect the sensor and ensure it is securely mounted.

3. Check and Replace ABS Fuse

  • Locate the fuse box (refer to the owner’s manual for exact location).
  • Identify the ABS fuse and remove it.
  • Inspect the fuse for continuity using a multimeter; replace with the manufacturer-recommended fuse if blown.

4. Inspect ABS Control Module Connections

  • Locate the ABS control module, typically mounted near the brake booster.
  • Disconnect the electrical connectors from the ABS control module.
  • Inspect the connectors for corrosion, damage, or loose wiring.
  • Clean the connectors with electrical contact cleaner and reconnect securely.

5. Reconnect Battery and Test

  • Reconnect the vehicle battery.
  • Start the engine and observe the dashboard for warning lights.
  • Conduct a test drive to confirm that the ABS light is off and traction control is functioning.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Brake cleaner
  • Basic socket set
  • Electrical contact cleaner

Parts Required

  • ABS fuse (if blown)
  • Wheel speed sensor (if damaged)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Ford Explorer makes a grinding noise when turning; what does it mean?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix grinding noise when turning in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise during left or right turns
    • •Difficulty steering or increased resistance while turning
    • +{count} more
  2. how to check the transmission fluid level in my Ford Explorer Fifth Generation (2011-2019)

    Learn how to check the transmission fluid level in your Ford Explorer (2011-2019). Step-by-step guide to ensure proper transmission function and preve...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Transmission slipping or delayed engagement
    • •Unusual noises from the transmission
    • +{count} more
  3. my Ford Explorer makes a whining noise when accelerating, what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise during acceleration in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise becomes more pronounced during acceleration
    • •Noise diminishes or disappears at idle
    • +{count} more
  4. my Ford Explorer makes a knocking noise when accelerating what's wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix knocking noise during acceleration in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructio...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Knocking noise during acceleration
    • •Possible loss of power
    • +{count} more
  5. my Ford Explorer makes a whining noise when accelerating what could it be

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whining noise during acceleration in Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruction...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Whining noise increases in pitch with acceleration
    • •Noise diminishes or disappears when the vehicle is coasting
    • +{count} more
  6. my Ford Explorer makes a hissing noise when I turn the steering wheel what should I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the hissing noise when turning the steering wheel in a Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and ...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Hissing noise when turning the steering wheel
    • •Difficulty in steering or increased steering effort
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation