ABS warning light

F-150 guy

Junior Member
What is the problem when the ABS and Traction assist dash warning lights stay lit on an 2008 Merc Grand Marquis. I don't have access to OBD 2 code reader.
 
Sounds as though it may be a wheel speed sensor, any way you can take to local parts store to start with. They will usually plug in for you in hopes of making a sale of parts. The parts stores are not all bad, some staff will bend over backwards for you. JMO
 
Sort of a similar problem.... I've got a '98 Acura CL that I've owned since new. The ABS sensor light on the dash has been on for over 12 years now. The ABS does work, but it'd be over $500 to get the light to go off. Naturally, I just taped a small piece of dark duct tape over the light on the dash, and drive merrily on. No problem. I'm not kidding.
 
Sort of a similar problem.... I've got a '98 Acura CL that I've owned since new. The ABS sensor light on the dash has been on for over 12 years now. The ABS does work, but it'd be over $500 to get the light to go off. Naturally, I just taped a small piece of dark duct tape over the light on the dash, and drive merrily on. No problem. I'm not kidding.

It may work, but correctly? Who gave you the estimate?

I would get it scanned and go from there.
 
Ok , first check and make sure your brake fluid is not low.
Then read the code if it’s still lit. Autozone or advance can do that.
Post what you find. Can’t hurt to try and disconnect the battery for 30 minutes
But if it’s a hard fault some have to be cleared with a scanner.
Cliff
 
As mentioned, get someone with a code reader to check it. After working on Ford cop cars for the last 20 years, I can tell you that the ABS module is a high failure item, but red the codes first
 
It may work, but correctly? Who gave you the estimate?

I would get it scanned and go from there.

That estimate was from the dealer during annual state inspection. That was when I lived in Pennsylvania and the ABS would work, per the dealer, and actually when I hit snow once and slammed on the brakes the ABS shuddered into action. Now that I'm living in NC, I never see snow. Having the light indicator on doesn't bother me in the least. I'm just going to continue to ignore it. No problem.
 
That estimate was from the dealer during annual state inspection. That was when I lived in Pennsylvania and the ABS would work, per the dealer...
'Ya know, that's kinda scary. The dealer certified the system to be fully functional with the light on and then signed an inspection certificate?
 
Thanks everyone for helpful replies and suggestions. Turned out to be brake fluid in master down abt a 1/2 inch but not enough to affect brake action. Filled it up and lights went off. Thanks again for replies.
 
You always have to first approach a repair diagnosis with the KISS principle. Keep It Simple Stupid. Many people see a warning light on in one of the newer computer controlled vehicles and their hair catches on fire. You need to step back for a second and look at the basic things first. A low brake fluid level is a common occurrence on more than just a Grand Marquis. The Aerostar would turn the light on when the brake light bulbs burned out. Plenty of time to panic after you rule out the easy things.
 
I believe it is referred to as following a basic DIAGNOSTIC SEQUENCE.

Sure saves on wear and tear and repair costs.
 
Thanks everyone for helpful replies and suggestions. Turned out to be brake fluid in master down abt a 1/2 inch but not enough to affect brake action. Filled it up and lights went off. Thanks again for replies.
had ABS light on in my old windstar van after a really hard braking on a steep hill. changed the fluid in the master cyl. and was all ok.
 
Thanks for all suggestions and answers. Got a code reader but no codes came up. My S-I-L came over and helped me go thru things again because the light kept coming on intermittently. Found one bulb in the brake light in the back window was out so we replaced that. Haven't seen the warning light since except as normal.
 
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