How to Replace an ABS Controller in a Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer has an anti-lock braking system (ABS) that prevents the brakes from locking during an emergency stop. The ABS controller accomplishes this by reducing the braking force to any wheel that is rotating significantly more slowly than the others. You may need to replace the ABS controller if the ABS warning light comes on. However, it is not necessarily unsafe to drive your vehicle without an ABS.

Instructions

1

Determine which ABS controller your Ford Explorer will need. You'll want to be sure the new controller is compatible with your make and model of Explorer. All versions of the Explorer have an ABS.

2

Position the vehicle on a hoist and place it in neutral. Remove the battery cables and battery tray with a socket wrench. Disconnect the electrical connector for the ABS controller.

3

Remove the nuts for the brake lines with a socket wrench so you can disconnect them from the hydraulic control unit. Unfasten the nuts that mount the bracket for the hydraulic control unit with a socket wrench and remove the hydraulic control unit from the vehicle. Remove the screws that hold the ABS controller to the hydraulic control unit and separate the two units.

4

Install the new ABS controller by reversing the above procedure. Use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts that hold a brake line to the hydraulic control unit to 17 feet lbs. Torque the nuts that connect brakes to each other to 13 feet lbs. and the nuts for the brake line brackets to 80 inch lbs. Torque the bolts for the hydraulic control unit brackets to 13 feet lbs.

5

Bleed the brake system, configure and calibrate the ABS controller using the directions for the scan tool.