GOLF 2004 ABS/ASR warning lights on.

[mointainwalker]

Hi

This car has been unused for six weeks and when I drove it yesterday , the handbrake was binding initially and the above warning-lights were showing. Since there was no problem when it was parked in April, I am thinking that these two lights are being driven by the same sensor, which has maybe got a bit of moisture in it or developed a poor connection somehow in the interim. I drove about 30 miles and the brake has re-set itself, but the lights are still there.

This is a friend's car and I don't have any books/documentation, so I'd be pleased to hear your thoughts before I start crawling underneath - and probably looking at the wrong wheel !

 

[ktuludays]

There is a sensor for the abs which detects if wheel has locked up during braking. They can fail but I'd initially unplug, clean up (ensure dry) then reconnect.

 

[Burnerman]

As you suspect, the greatest issue may be identifying which wheel.....
As said above, each wheel has a two wire sensor, check for fraying which is often the fault. The front wheels have a reluctor wheel on the outer end of each drive shaft which may have rusted off, the rears I think have the reluctor in the hub or even the bearing.....I give each area a good blast with compressed air to shift any debris.
If its nothing obvious, perhaps a scan by an able garage could be the next step - the ABS module is delicate on these and expensive, although they can be repaired.
John

 

[mointainwalker]

Thanks John. If there is fraying, is there a short replacement harness that is available ?

 

[Burnerman]

Im pretty sure there is.....I do recall the front ones have a harness and connector, the latter was on the engine side of the inner wing but I dont remember how old the car was. The items came from a motor factors, rather than a dealer so the price was fair. I cant comment on the availability in France, of course!
John

 

[baldykev]

HI
Check your brake lights work, blown bulb, can put the ABS warning light on

 

[mointainwalker]

Thanks Baldykev

I'll check that next visit to the car.