F355 ABS Problem

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by Peter Jqs, Aug 8, 2008.

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  1. Peter Jqs

    Peter Jqs Rookie

    Aug 4, 2008
    3
    Belgium
    Full Name:
    Peter Jaques
    Hi,

    I have the following problem with a 1996 F355 Berlinetta. The ABS Light is permanently on. Can't read any fault codes by inserting the fuse in the diagnostics socket next to ABS ECU as the ABS warning light just stays illuminated.

    Would this indicated its not a sensor problem but some kind of other electrical problem? Or does the ECU needs somehow needs resetting first?

    Any ideas??

    Thanks,
    Peter…
     
  2. spaghetti_jet

    spaghetti_jet Formula Junior

    Jan 5, 2005
    921
    Europa
    Full Name:
    Bob
    I had a wheel sensor go on one of my other cars (Maserati 3200) a few years back and the ABS light only came on once I started moving. I think the module assumes that the sensors are all OK until you start moving. It was a pretty 'cheap' fix in the end (cheap for a maserati, anyway).

    If the ABS light comes on and stays on at key-on before you've turned a wheel then it's a fair guess that the problem is in the electronic module or in the compressor/accumulator/valve system.

    Anyway, you'll need an SD1/2 to read the Ferrari ABS system error codes.
     
  3. No Doubt

    No Doubt Seven Time F1 World Champ

    May 21, 2005
    72,740
    Vegas+Alabama
    Full Name:
    Mr. Sideways
    The ABS light can come on and stay on for a variety of reasons, such as leaving the test fuse in the ABS socket or having low brake fluid.
     
  4. leorosa

    leorosa Karting

    Feb 26, 2008
    170
    Puerto Rico
    Full Name:
    Leo
    Can someone point Me wich one is the test fuse? Mine have all in place.Maybe I leave the test fuse in place..HELP PLEASE..!!!
     
  5. No Doubt

    No Doubt Seven Time F1 World Champ

    May 21, 2005
    72,740
    Vegas+Alabama
    Full Name:
    Mr. Sideways
    ABS won't work if you leave the test fuse in. You will still have power brakes, but no ABS.
     
  6. spider348

    spider348 Formula 3

    Nov 3, 2003
    1,273
    MA
    Full Name:
    John
    Have a similar problem with my ’97 355. ABS light on, no codes when a fuse is inserted in the diagnostic fuse holder.
    ’96 has the same system as my early ’97, ATE Teves. The Ferrari SD1 or SD2 will not read ABS codes on cars using the ATE system, The later Bosch system will generate codes that can be read through the OBDII connector.
    If your “brake” warning light is not lit that generally rules out low brake fluid or a pressure problem at the high pressure accumulator.
    The workshop manual points toward an electrical problem, bad ground etc, relay issue, power issue or the ECU. Reference the workshop manual for a comprehensive section detailing the ATE system. How it works and possible problem areas to investigate.
    I have not been able to trace my ABS problem but plan to devote a bit more time at the end of driving season.
    Good luck!
     
  7. Peter Jqs

    Peter Jqs Rookie

    Aug 4, 2008
    3
    Belgium
    Full Name:
    Peter Jaques
    I had some time to have another look at it.
    I definitly didn't leave the test fuse in the socket.
    I did try the diagnostic with the test fuse again after disconnecting the battery using the battery switch, which made no difference.
    The light comes on as soon the key is turned into the 1st position.
    I checked the wheel speed sensors signals using a oscilloscope, measuring at the plug going onto the ABS ECU, all 4 seemed Ok.

    In the case of the ABS light always on the workshop manual point to 4 possible causes, 2 of them internal control unit faults, no electrical supply to the ABS ECU or short circuit of the warning light earth lead.

    At first sight electrical supply is ok and no short circuit of the earth lead of the warning light.
    The light goes out when I disconnect the white 8-pin plug beneath the ABS ECU...

    Any suggestions on testing/checking the ABS control unit?

    Peter...
     
  8. Peter Jqs

    Peter Jqs Rookie

    Aug 4, 2008
    3
    Belgium
    Full Name:
    Peter Jaques
    Since my last post,
    I had the ABS-ECU tested, and the company which tested it claimed it wasn't powering up anymore and beyond repair.
    I then ordered a second hand unit to replace the old unit, but I’m still having the same problem…
    Have I done something wrong???

    Peter
     
  9. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,029
    USA
    Peter, I doubt you will know for sure, until you have the second unit tested, to confirm it is operational. That is the risk with second hand units. Even if it was presumably working when removed, you are still uncertain what might have happened to it since, that could cause it to now not work.
     
  10. windsock

    windsock Formula 3
    Rossa Subscribed

    Nov 29, 2006
    1,129
    Does the Red Brake warning light work? Not the Park Brake warning. There is a specific red brake warning indicator for low fluid, brake pad wear indicator or low boost pressure. Often that bulb is burnt out and peaple are unaware of it. It should proove out when the vehicle is started. Any concern that turns on the brake warning lamp will also illuminate the ABS lamp but will not store any codes. You may very well have a base brake concern causing your ABS lamp.
     

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