ABS trac light

Tiny
LORI FREASE
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 PONTIAC GRAND AM
  • 2.4L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 171,000 MILES
My ABS light and traction control says off all the time just had the front shocks. Replaced. I thought that it might be the front wheel speed sensor but the light comes on before I even move the car.
Friday, February 1st, 2019 AT 5:43 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

I have a feeling you are right. If the struts were just replaced, the ABS wiring was manipulated to replace the struts. Check to see if something was left unplugged or damaged. Note, even if the connectors look connected, disconnect them and inspect the pins to make sure nothing was bent when they were put back together. If the steering knuckle dropped while the work was being done, it could have damaged the wiring.

Here is a link that shows how to test a ABS sensor:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/abs-wheel-speed-sensor-test

I attached a picture of the hub bearing / sensor so you can see the wiring from the hub.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Friday, February 1st, 2019 AT 8:28 PM
Tiny
LORI FREASE
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Okay, so I tested all the fuses they are all good. Now the light went off until I put the car in gear.
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Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 AT 5:10 PM
Tiny
LORI FREASE
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
I was checking the speed sensor and saw this. I can think of what it is but it looks like it needs replaced.
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Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 AT 5:14 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,709 POSTS
Hi, Lori, and welcome back.

That is an outer tie rod. If it has excessive play, it needs replaced. Additionally, when replacing, make sure to measure the overall length between the end of the joint and where is screws onto the inner tie rod. If you don't make it exactly the same length, the alignment (toe in/out) will need reset.

Here is a link that shows how to replace one in general:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/tie-rod-end-replacement

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle for replacement. All attached pictures correlate with these directions.

___________________________________________

TIE ROD END REPLACEMENT
NOTE: The content of this article / image reflects the changes called out by TSB: 05-02-32-003

Tie Rod End Replacement - Outer

Tools Required
J24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller

Removal Procedure
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.

Picture 1

3. Remove the prevailing torque nut (2) from the outer tie rod assembly (1).

Picture 2

4. Loosen the jam nut (2) on the inner tie rod assembly (1).

Notice: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint.

Picture 3

5. Remove the outer tie rod assembly from the steering knuckle using J24319-B.

Picture 4

6. Remove the outer tie rod assembly (3) from the inner tie rod assembly (1).

Installation Procedure

Picture 5

1. Install the outer tie rod assembly (3) to the inner tie rod assembly (1). Do NOT tighten the jam nut (2).

Picture 6

2. Install the outer tie rod assembly (2) to the steering knuckle (1).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

Picture 7

3. Install the prevailing torque nut (2) to the outer tie rod assembly (1).
Tighten the nut to 30 Nm (22 ft. lbs.) plus an additional 120 degrees of rotation.

NOTE: Visually inspect to ensure that 2 1/2 - 4 1/2 threads are visible past the nylon washer.

Tighten the jam nut to 70 Nm (52 ft. lbs.).

4. Install tire and wheel assembly.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Perform a front end alignment.

______________________________________________

It really is a good idea to have the car aligned after this procedure. However, if you don't want to, make sure the length is measured between the end of the inner tie rod (where the outer attaches) and the end of the outer tie rod.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 AT 8:59 PM
Tiny
LORI FREASE
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
  • 2004 PONTIAC GRAND AM
  • 3.4L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 169,537 MILES
ABS and Trac off light and service engine soon all came on when I turned the key. They stay on all the time even before moving car. Codes C1226 and C1232 and also mentioned acceleration sensor stuck. Could both front sensor go at same time or is there a wire broke.
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Friday, February 22nd, 2019 AT 11:53 AM (Merged)

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