2002 Ford Windstar Brake and ABS Lights

FORD WINDSTAR
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OKNAZ
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
2002 windstar lx ...just did all 4 corner's with new part's the rear drum's didn't need turned and either did the front rotor's . what i can't figure out is if the brakes were just replaced why am i getting the brake and abs light's coming . the rear shoes make a noise like something is caught in the drum but it's clear . need to figure this out i'm not willing to give a brake shop money if it's a easy fix
Jan 22, 2006 at 7:21 AM
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LOVESCARS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 359 POSTS
Was the light on before you did the brakes? If not then double back over your work if you have a noise coming from an area you worked on that needs to be identified. Did you adjust the rear brakes?
Most ABS need to be serviced by the dealer after you have double checked your work and cleared everything try disconnecting the negative terminal on the battery to see if light goes out.
Jan 22, 2006 at 11:40 AM
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NAPAGUY
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The ABS system is not easily serviced by a home mechanic. First, the noise is caused by the fact that you did not re-suface the drums and rotors when installing new pads and shoes.....this is a must if you want maximum life from the brake job...also minmum noise. The pads and shoes are not contacting the rotating surface evenly......the rear shoes are contacting a ridge that was worn in the drums from the previous shoes.......as far as the ABS, the light is coming on because the BRAKE system light is on...signifying a problem with the main system (see above) !
Jan 22, 2006 at 12:13 PM
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Suggested Repair

Resurface or replace the drums and rotors so the new shoes and pads contact evenly; a worn ridge in the drums can cause the rear noise. Adjust the rear brakes and recheck the recent brake work. If the brake warning light remains, the ABS light may stay on with it; after verifying the brake system, have the ABS checked by a dealer. Disconnecting the battery negative cable may clear the lights temporarily.

Conversation Summary

A 2002 Ford Windstar owner replaced pads and shoes at all four corners without turning the drums or rotors, then developed a rear drum noise plus brake and ABS warning lights. One reply advised rechecking the work, adjusting the rear brakes, trying a battery disconnect, and having ABS serviced by a dealer if needed. Another said the noise comes from new shoes and pads contacting unreresurfaced drums and rotors, including a ridge in the drums, and that the ABS light is on because the main brake warning light is on.

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