ABS scan tool
Important ABS scan tool update: Actron automotive tools division has heard my plea for an affordable brake system diagnostic tool. This product was released at the end of 2008. The Actron ABS Brake Scanner connects to most domestic vehicles 1996 and newer and allows you to diagnose Anti Lock Brake problems on your own. This abs scanner diagnoses the brake control module, ABS pump motor, brake switch, wheel speed sensors, Anti lock control solenoids, all vehicle speed sensors and more. The on board code library is update able online from a USB connection to your Internet connected PC. A battery backup can also be used to save data and power the brake scanning unit when it is not connected to the obd2 self powered port.
This scanner can aid in troubleshooting problems with ABS solenoids, ABS pump motors, brake switches, control modules, speed sensors and all the wiring that connects these devices to the ECU (Electronic Control Unit). This thing works on most 1996 and newer GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. You can see the complete application chart and some user reviews from the link on the left. The actual screen capture image below on the left shows a code for a wheel speed sensor input fault. Often this code is set by broken or damaged wiring to the speed sensor itself. Overall wheel speed sensor codes are what I see most of.
Since the unit is C.A.N. (controller area network) capable it will continue to work on 2010 automobiles and beyond. The scan tool has Internet connectivity as well for software updates. I own the equus 3120 and have found it to be a professional grade diagnostic tool that I can count on.
Abs light information
When you're ABS light comes on, the easiest way to find out why is with a brake system scan tool. When the ABS system malfunctions and illuminates the warning light, diagnosis is harder than it should be. This anti lock braking system is not as complicated as the vehicle manufacturers are making it. The government has simplified check engine light diagnosis by mandating the OBD two systems, which standardized and simplified the diagnosis of check engine lights. Unfortunately, this has not trickled down to the anti lock braking system. A separate data stream is used and a specialized abs scan tool is needed for the proper diagnosis of the system on most vehicles. When the system turns on the warning light it will set a code just as in standard OBD 2 applications. These codes relate to a specific failure, in part of the computerized antilock braking system. On modern four-wheel antilock brake systems the ABS computer monitors wheel speed through four independent wheel speed sensors and compares that to the vehicles Main speed sensor, which is usually located in the transmission output shaft area, but can also be located on the rear differential. When the computer sees a difference between the actual speed of the vehicle and an independent wheel. It begins to pulse the brake system through a computer-controlled brake modulator.
Common causes of ABS lightsMy experience with diagnosing this system is that the individual wheel speed sensors are fragile and are easy to damage. I have also come across a wheel speed sensor tester pictured on the left but I have not tried it yet. When I am diagnosing an ABS system, and I have retrieved a code for a wheel speed sensor failure, many times when examining the wheel speed sensor I find damage. This can be caused by road debris, ice and snow or other external forces that have damaged that particular wheel speed sensor or wiring connecting the sensor to the ABS module. The abs code that is set is for communication lost from the wheel speed sensor in question.
The diagnosis of this system is also very simple if you have an ABS scan tool. Unfortunately, this specialized tool is very expensive. ABS system diagnosis without the tool is very complicated and time-consuming. We all hope that the Government will standardize the ABS diagnostic system just like they did with the check engine light diagnostics. When you attempt your own DIY ABS diagnostics you can examine each wheel sensor and wiring for signs of an external damage. If you find a sensor or wiring broken you can replace this and then drive the vehicle to see if the light goes out.
You can get inexpensive wheel speed sensors from doorman, Motorcraft, AC delco, and Wagner at amazon. Put your year make and model in the widget and do a search. Then compare that with local prices. The anti lock brake system is a constant monitor system. Meaning if a code has been set by a failure of one-wheel sensor, when this sensor is replaced, the computer will identify that the speed sensors are now producing a signal and will extinguish the ABS light automatically.
ABS scan toolsThe ABS scan tool that I have listed from Equus is a good value, because it also does OBD two diagnostics, along with most domestic ABS system diagnosis. The Equus 3160 includes all software, cables and a memory card to tackle some of the most complicated auto repair diagnostics. The today's technician series of ABS books is a very complete manual and one of the first choices for professional mechanics. So this one diagnostic training book can handle the repair of most car braking problems and lights that may illuminate on your vehicle's dashboard related to braking systems. As a side note, any time that you're ABS light, airbag light or check engine light is on The problem is worth looking into. Too many times I see people driving around with these lights illuminated on their dashes for extended periods of time. These are vehicle safety systems that where put in place to protect drivers. Do not ignore these warnings or safety could be compromised. Give this abs scanner page a  Custom Search If you would like to learn more about me and why I built this automotive website visit the homepage and find out how to ask a Car question
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If your car has either a check engine or an ABS light on, you don't have to reach into your toolbox for two tools, the 3160 will do both jobs.
The repair or replacement of an individual wheel speed sensor in most cases is very simple. 
