Questions and Answers

Ford Explorer RABS Light On Q. Hello, I have a 1992 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4X4. About a month after having the transmission and rear end rebuilt, the trouble light "REAR ANTILOCK" comes on about a minute after I start the car. I was told that I should check the sensor in the rear differential for dirt which I did but since the light comes on before I put the car in gear, I don't think that's the problem.

My Chiltons manual does not go into great detail about this light, only that it has to do with a transmission module mounted behind the radio. I happen to think a sensor connection in the transmission came loose but I just don't know where to look. this car has 165,000 miles on it and like me is getting old and tired so I don't want to put a lot of money into it. If you could point me in a direction I would appreciate it.

Thanks,
Pat

A. The Rear Anti-Lock Brakes (RABS) uses both the BRAKE and REAR ABS instrument panel warning lights to alert the driver to a system malfunction. Both lights must be working properly to assist in problem diagnosis.

Before obtaining the flash out code, drive the vehicle to a level area, and place the shift lever in PARK for automatic transmissions and NEUTRAL for manual transmissions.

Notice whether the red BRAKE light is on or not (for future reference), and then apply the parking brake. Keep the ignition key in the ON position so that the code will not be lost. Place blocks behind the rear wheels and in front of of the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving while the flash out code is being taken.

To obtain the flash out code, locate the RABS diagnostic connector with the orange/black wire on the steering column near the ignition switch.

Attach a jumper wire to the black/orange wire. Momentarily ground it to the chassis. When the ground is made and then broken, the REAR ABS light should begin to flash.

NOTE: If the red BRAKE light was on (as noticed before the parking brake was applied), the problem may be with the low fluid level circuit and, in this case, no flash out code will be flashed and the yellow REAR ABS light will remain on steadily.

Once we know what the codes are, we will have a good shot at getting this fixed pretty quick.