Looking for a current ABS code reader

[John Livingston]

My '97 Mountaineer's ABS light has been on for quite some time. My Innova OBD2 reader doesn't do ABS, so I ordered a Blcktec 430 from Amazon, which does. I get a "not available" when I ask it to check for ABS issues. I've read the previous threads about code readers, and it sure seems like there should be no problem getting one that works, but all the suggested models are not current ones. Any suggestions for recent model that will work on this car, preferably under $200, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

John

 

[John Livingston]

Replying to my own post! I've looked at a bunch of reviews, and I'm leaning toward the Innova 5210. I've had good luck with Innova products, their support is here in the US, and, most importantly, their site lets you check compatibility of your specific vehicle. It does say this should read my ABS data. If anyone has the 5210, and it hasn't worked for you, please let me know.

 

[410Fortune]

This is what I use

Amazon.com

It does it all even diesels
I’m
Happy with the launch products the screen is larger and it’s easy to use. Has lasted me many years and never a glitch. Super easy to update too

Many people these days just use a Bluetooth dongle and a android
Tablet or better for ford a windows laptop with Forscan software

 

[John Livingston]

This is what I use

Amazon.com

It does it all even diesels
I’m
Happy with the launch products the screen is larger and it’s easy to use. Has lasted me many years and never a glitch. Super easy to update too

Many people these days just use a Bluetooth dongle and a android
Tablet or better for ford a windows laptop with Forscan software

I think I'll give your Launch unit a try, although it may well be that something's fried in my system, and that nothing will pull ABS data. I just hooked up the Innova 5210, which I find much harder to use than my old Innova, and I got the same "failed to communicate" screen. To its credit, it did pull up the VIN and mileage. and it did seem to try to apply '97 Ford/Mercury specific software. Is there a component in the ABS system that could have failed and is preventing either the Blcktec 430 dongle or the Innova from getting info?

 

[John Livingston]

I do see that Rock Auto sells an ABS control module for about $130, after core return. I guess it's looking like maybe I should order one?

 

[410Fortune]

John

So the scanner cannot communicate with the abs control module and it’s not likely a scanner issue since more then one unit is doing the same thing

Have you checked all fuses related to the abs?
The abs control module gets two can bus communications wires just like the other modules the + and - signal leads can be checked for continuity between the obd2 adapter under the dash and the abs module, to ensure that there is not a simple break in the wiring.

Otherwise it is quite possible that your 30 year old abs module has simply worn out.
There are several rebuilders who refurbish these things these days and $130’is not bad. I recently paid $950 for a abs module for a 14 jeep wrangler so $130 is a song in comparison. Still I like to do some
Simple tests first to make sure the new abs controller won’t do the same thing

Check fuses
Check for power and ground feeds at abs middle, make sure it’s getting the power it needs from pcm relay and ignition switch, make sure it’s still getting a good ground and make sure the communication wires are in good shape and connected… then I would feel comfortable ordering a new part

 

[410Fortune]

I have a 96 explorer wiring book and 98 and 2000 if you need any diagrams I can get them posted

 

[John Livingston]

I have a 96 explorer wiring book and 98 and 2000 if you need any diagrams I can get them posted

Thanks. I do have the original factory manuals, in real paper! I guess I'd better dust them off and put them to use.

 

[410Fortune]

ABS pump pretty simple
It gets speed sensor wires from two front wheels and one from rear axle
It has power grounds and then communications wires
No biggie 97 is early obd2 but your scanner should talk to it