Lights on dash are on and there seems to be no problem

In June, I bought a Ford Escape from Marketplace. The only issue at the time was the low tire pressure light staying on. Since then, we’ve replaced both rear shocks, rear wheel bearings, and got four new tires. I’m guessing that’s why the lights are still on, but I’m not sure how to fix it. Can I clear the codes myself, knowing the parts are fine now, or should I take it to a professional? I’m mainly concerned about the ABS and traction control lights. The car has been running fine ever since we did the repairs. Before that, it made a terrible noise because of the bad suspension. What should I do?

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Could be an ABS issue. You might need to get it scanned to figure out what’s wrong.

Oli said:
Could be an ABS issue. You might need to get it scanned to figure out what’s wrong.

Should I go to a mechanic or try a scan tool myself? I’m trying to save money, but I’m not sure if the tools are affordable.

@Sia
A proper shop with the right tools might be your best bet, especially for ABS codes.

Oli said:
@Sia
A proper shop with the right tools might be your best bet, especially for ABS codes.

Thanks for the advice!

Sia said:

Oli said:
@Sia
A proper shop with the right tools might be your best bet, especially for ABS codes.

Thanks for the advice!

FYI, I bought a cheap scan tool for $20. It’s been pretty handy. You can look up the codes online and figure out most things.

@Flynn
I got a Bluetooth one that works with my phone, but it says there are no trouble codes. Maybe it’s not good enough?

Sia said:
@Flynn
I got a Bluetooth one that works with my phone, but it says there are no trouble codes. Maybe it’s not good enough?

A lot of cheaper scan tools won’t read ABS codes. You’d need a more expensive one for that. You could also check the wheel sensor wires first since that’s a common issue. If it’s the sensor, it’s not too hard to replace.

This happened to me right before my car battery died.

Shai said:
This happened to me right before my car battery died.

Yeah, when a battery fails, weird stuff can happen with the electronics.

Shai said:
This happened to me right before my car battery died.

Same for me. Definitely check the battery first.

Could be an old code, or maybe a wheel speed sensor. Try getting a free scan at an auto parts store. They can clear the code, and if it comes back, you’ll know it needs attention.

Avery said:
Could be an old code, or maybe a wheel speed sensor. Try getting a free scan at an auto parts store. They can clear the code, and if it comes back, you’ll know it needs attention.

Make sure they tell you which sensor is acting up before they reset anything.

It’s likely a wheel speed sensor. Tire pressure sensors shouldn’t be related. I’m a Ford tech, and I’ve seen this happen before.

West said:
It’s likely a wheel speed sensor. Tire pressure sensors shouldn’t be related. I’m a Ford tech, and I’ve seen this happen before.

If it’s a rear wheel bearing, it can cause problems if installed wrong. It has to be pressed in correctly for the sensor to work.

I had this same issue. The dealer just unplugged and reconnected the ABS sensors on each wheel, and the problem went away.

Adair said:
I had this same issue. The dealer just unplugged and reconnected the ABS sensors on each wheel, and the problem went away.

Honestly, I was thinking about trying that myself :joy:

I had this issue too. Ended up replacing a rear ABS sensor. It’s a $30 part and takes about 20 minutes to swap out. Super easy fix.