So I got a constant ABS/TRAC UNAVAILABLE message.

Cleaned wheel speed sensors, not fixed
Pulled ABS connector and checked resistance, all within spec
Was going to tackle the ABS module removal and do an exploratory surgery when I wondered if I had inadvertently caused the problem when I recently added new pads and rotors..

I had noticed my brake fluid reservoir was full full after the new pads pushed the pistons back quite a ways from the very worn pads, but didn't think much of it until I got this ABS error, so I thought, "What the h-e-double-toothpicks" I might as well drain a little fluid just to try an easy fix and...drumroll please... PRESTO! no more error message

I went out and "tested" the abs system with my new EBC "Red Stuff" Pads, and besides a couple of now detached retenas, all is well. These red stuff pads stop really really well cold, warm, and hot. Too bad they are high dust, not the low dust as advertised. Now I'll just have to remember to put on my eyeball retention units before testing them again in the future

Sure this was an odd reason (caused by me) to have the abs error, but it was a quick and easy fix so I wanted to post here so, if the odd situation happens, where someone repeats my error of leaving the brake fluid level too high, they might fix the problem without any cost or further loss of time and effort.

Cheers

 

Thank you for the thank yous

 

So bleeding the system then fitting new pads triggers an ABS fault?

Maybe changing pads, then a full bleed would not trigger an ABS fault.

I wonder how it's triggered, is it due to overfilling and how is this sensed by the ABS module, and by how much is over filled!?

 

I went out and filled my XK8 reservoir to the to overflow, then put the cap on and drove with no problem today. Could it be that the system was pressurized after the brake job? That might trigger a fault in the ABS module.
RJ______________
97 XK8 85K mi

 

I don't know what to say other than as soon as I drained a little away, my solid/constant ABS fault went away and has not as yet come back...

 

I'm going to try this fix in the morning.

I did recently replace rear pads and rotors.

cheers

 

Mine still has not come back

Do post and let us know if it helped.

 

Sorry for the late update.

Pulled 2 good size syringes of fluid out, was definitely overfilled.

Car still has the error and yellow light above.

Where is the module?

thx

 

mine is doing this too. I am going to clean the wheel sensors and see if that will help. I took out brake fluid but not sure what is the correct level??

 

Noticed my mod is bolted on with torx screws.

The one socket type I don't have. torx!!

Seems like the cover may not have to be cut,??? Anyone ever fix an xj8?

tia

 

Update on ASC/TRAC error.

Took off and cleaned 3 wheel sensors, they were rusted good, wire brushed them until they shined.

Then removed air from each tire to 35lbs.

Message is gone.

 

Hi WaterDragpm
I lowered the brake fluid level a bit below the top about 10 days ago. We have not received any abs errors since.

A big thank you for this thread. My wife is a lot happier that she is no longer getting the abs warning and the trac off messages.

Jim Lombardi

 

Thank you for the thank you

I'm just happy that I can contribute to this board that has been so helpful (and entertaining) to me.

It seemed like such a weird fix, and many are doubtful it was causal, but this little discovery seems to be fixing a lot of worry and stress for people, so I am just happy to be of some small amount of help to you all.

 

le%20Repair.pdf[/URL]

Jim Lombardi[/QUOTE]


I was linked to this thread by a fellow members (Jim Lombardi) and I am amazed that this might be the cause. My XK8 is currently at my Jag shop getting a coolant leak and knock sensor fixed (as well as a rumble I get after 35mph or around 2000rpm... He says it should be the tire balancing which strangely I just got done at tire Kingdom...). He was going to charge me $800+ to rebuild the ABS module, as I am also getting this error message for ASC and Trac control, etc, but I'm going to try these fixes first as I think that's ridiculous! I'll report back soon as I clean the wheel sensors and remove some brake fluid.

BTW, are there any links as to where and how to remove and clean the wheel sensors??

Thanks

 

The wheel sensors are very easy to get to. They are the only things on the back of the knuckles with wires going to them. They are secured by a single bolt. The fronts are 10mm, can't remember the rear!

 

Here is the weblink to another forum thread on these wheel speed sensor cleaning:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...d-60160/page2/

See post# 3 in thread - it has a weblink to a DIY on how to clean thems (created by forum member Reverend Sam) the post also has other tips on it.

Jim Lombardi

 

Are all the abs mods the same from 98 to 03 and can I use a2001 on a 1998?

 

Welcome to the forum. When you have time please visit the new member area and introduce yourself.

New Member Area - Intro a MUST - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum

Not all early XK8s were equipped with Traction Control, and the same may be true for XJ8. If you have a button on the dash that reads ASC OFF you can not use a later module.
Why do you want to replace the module? If you have ABS light on it could be one of several different problems not module related. If the module is faulty it would be much cheaper to send it out for repair. ebay has several repair services listed.

 

I'm just wondering how the master cylinders became 'overfull' in the first place. They didn't leave the factory like that (?)

 

Reread the first post . . .