The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

ABS and Traction Control Lights On - 2017 Ford Escape

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:33 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Escape SE

Hello everyone,

My 2017 Ford Escape SE (front-wheel drive, 80,000 miles) recently had both the ABS light and the Traction Control light come on simultaneously on the dashboard. They've been on for a couple of days now and don't seem to be going away. I haven't noticed any immediate changes in braking performance, but I know these systems are important for safety.

I checked the brake fluid level, and it's fine. I also tried disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system, but the lights came back on. I'm wondering if this is a common issue with these Escapes and what might be the cause. Could it be a wheel speed sensor, or something more complex like the ABS module itself? Any specific OBD codes I should look for if I get it scanned?

Thanks in advance!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:33 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Traction Control lights illuminate on your 2017 Ford Escape SE, it indicates a fault within the vehicle's braking and stability control systems. These systems often share components, so a single failure can trigger both warnings.

Common Causes:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure: This is the most frequent cause. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If a sensor fails, gets dirty, or its wiring is damaged, the ABS/Traction Control module can't get accurate data, triggering the lights.
  2. Damaged ABS Tone Ring/Reluctor Wheel: The wheel speed sensor reads data from a toothed ring (tone ring) on the axle or hub. If this ring is cracked, corroded, or damaged, it can cause incorrect readings.
  3. Faulty ABS Module: Less common but possible, the ABS control module itself can fail. This is typically a more expensive repair.
  4. Low Brake Fluid Level: While you've checked this, it's a common cause for the brake warning light, which can sometimes be linked to ABS/Traction Control issues.
  5. Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring to the wheel speed sensors or ABS module can also cause these lights.

Diagnostics & OBD Codes:

To accurately diagnose this, you'll need an OBD-II scanner capable of reading ABS-specific codes. Generic scanners might not show these. Look for codes in the C0xxx series, such as:

  • C0031 - C0035: Wheel Speed Sensor (Left Front, Right Front, Left Rear, Right Rear) circuit issues.
  • C0040 - C0044: Wheel Speed Sensor (Left Front, Right Front, Left Rear, Right Rear) performance issues.
  • C0051: ABS Pump Motor Circuit.
  • C0060 - C0080: ABS Valve/Solenoid Circuit issues.

What to Check:

  1. Scan for Codes: Get the vehicle scanned for ABS-specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  2. Inspect Wheel Speed Sensors: If a code points to a specific wheel, visually inspect the sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or dirt. Sometimes, simply cleaning a dirty sensor can resolve the issue.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you can't read ABS-specific codes or are unsure about interpreting them.
  • If visual inspection doesn't reveal an obvious problem.
  • If the issue persists after cleaning/replacing a sensor.
  • Since ABS and Traction Control are critical safety features, it's best to have a professional diagnose and repair the system promptly to ensure your vehicle's full safety functionality.
Menu

Help & account