[Neuromancer]

I have a 2WD 1996 Astro, the ABS fault light is on but not the brake light. I have taken to a garage and they have replaced the front sensors but now tell me that the fault lies with the rear sensors. I think it must be the common ECBM issue, but before I go down that route can I ask the following:

Do 2WD Astros have rear ABS sensors? I read that only AWD have them, and they connect to the transfer case. Is that correct?

Many thanks,

Jaimie

 

[Rustbelt_mVan]

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is basically the rear wheel speed sensor. It's the same readout used by the PCM for the speedometer. The ECBM compares the speed readings from the front wheel speed sensors with the VSS to determine wheel slip.
You need to find out what codes are triggering the ABS light.

 

[Neuromancer]

Thank you very much. I can't get the codes currently unfortunately, but are you saying that if my speedo is working (it is) that therefore my VSS should be functioning, and therefore not the source of my problem?

 

[bryancraftyhands]

Read my thread on this subject. See where it leads. It may or may not apply. It probably will at least in part.

 

[AstroWill]

Thank you very much. I can't get the codes currently unfortunately, but are you saying that if my speedo is working (it is) that therefore my VSS should be functioning, and therefore not the source of my problem?

Really, get someone that can actually read the codes for you, a $20 bluetooth adapter with the correct software on your phone/tablet will do the trick. Without reading the code it's just guessing.

 

[bryancraftyhands]

Really, get someone that can actually read the codes for you, a $20 bluetooth adapter with the correct software on your phone/tablet will do the trick. Without reading the code it's just guessing.

Is 96 OBD2? My 92 is OBD1 and the codes are retrieved by jumping two pins in the diagnostic terminal and reading blinking lights. (or at least can be if no OBD1 reader is around) That's how I did mine if you recall.
If a 96 is OBD2, whatever reader OP would like to use would have to be capable of reading ABS codes. I don't know of any that can for $20.

 

[AstroWill]

If a 96 is OBD2, whatever reader OP would like to use would have to be capable of reading ABS codes. I don't know of any that can for $20.

Yes, it would be OBD2. Virtually all of the generic OBD2 bluetooth adapters can do it, just have to use the correct software. Astro-Safari-Info - DiagnosticCodes

 

[Neuromancer]

Thank you for all replies. I know I'm asking newbie questions that have likely been asked a million times, so thank you for your patience.

The 96 does have OBD2, at least mine appears to. It's in the shop and the guy has been unable to give me the codes, but has had it read (no small feat in the UK) and is sure it is a "rear ABS sensor" issue. We're presuming it is a VSS sensor that is playing up - they're cheap so will try that and report back any progress, negative or positive.

I do worry the 95/96 year vans seem a mismatch of electrical gubbins so crossing my fingers.

 

[bryancraftyhands]

"gubbins"...I think I jjust learned a new English word today!🤓