ABS light is on, any ideas?

[Lylos]

Again, I appreciate the input.

When you say the software allows you to clear the codes, does it diagnose and then clear them or does it diagnose and then you need to change the sensors?

[Pete Taylor]

It will tell you what the faults stored in the ECU (engine or ABS ECU) and then allow you to clear them. If the fault isn't fixed it will bring the fault code up again when rescanned. If something has previously been fixed but the fault codes not cleared they will still be showing until cleared. When running diagnostics for the first time it's always wise to clear all the codes first otherwise you could be changing/replacing/fixing something that's working prefectly fine

[Pete Taylor]

You will scan and it will show a code and fault such as "00290 - ABS Wheel Speed Sensor; Rear Left (G46)"

That fault code tells you that the rear left ABS sensor is at fault, if you cleared the fault and didnt fix it, it would show the same fault. If you fixed it, cleared the fault and scanned again it would show no fault codes.

You can use a multimeter to test the resistance or the rear sensors under the seat, fix the faulty sensor and the ABS light will go off after a few miles if fixed although the fault will still be stored in the ABS ECU. I say test the rear sensors, I would put money on it being a rear one!

[Lylos]

Right I fully understand now, I think I'm probably going put XP on the laptop - I can't be done with Vista. I'll order this diagnostic cable now and see how I get on - Thanks for the info Pete and co. 

[Pete Taylor]

If you need any help setting up the Vag Com then let me know. I just bought an anciant laptop for a tenner to use just for the car lol

[faz186]

i think this needs to be put in the info folder as it is very usefull