Symptom Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control

2018 Ford Fusion Platinum HybridSECTION Symptom Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control

Diagnostics in this article assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods .

Condition Possible Sources Actions
A module does not respond to the diagnostic scan tool Fuse
Wiring, terminals or connectors
ABS module concern
REFER to: Communications Network - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
The brake warning indicator is always or never on Low brake fluid level
Brake fluid level sensor
Parking brake applied
Parking brake switch
Brake booster vacuum sensor
IPC concern
ABS concern
RETRIEVE all ABS module Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and GO to DTC Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module .
If there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present in the ABS module, DIAGNOSE the warning indicator. REFER to: Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
The ABS warning indicator is always or never on IPC concern
ABS or stability control concern
RETRIEVE all ABS module Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and GO to DTC Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module .
If there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present in the ABS module, DIAGNOSE the warning indicator. REFER to: Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
The stability / traction control indicator (sliding-car icon) is never or always on IPC concern
ABS or stability control concern
RETRIEVE all ABS module Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and GO to DTC Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module .
If there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present in the ABS module, DIAGNOSE the warning indicator. REFER to: Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
All 3 indicators (brake warning, ABS warning and stability / traction control) are illuminated Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present in the ABS module
CAN concern
Wiring, terminals or connectors
A loss of ignition voltage, battery voltage or module ground causes all 3 ABS related indicators to illuminate. Loss of ABS module battery voltage or ABS module ground causes a loss of communication between the ABS module and all other modules as well as the diagnostic scan tool. A loss of ABS module ignition voltage causes a loss of communication only between the ABS module and the PCM.
* RETRIEVE and DIAGNOSE all ABS module Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). GO to DTC Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module .
* If the ABS module does not communicate with the diagnostic scan tool, REFER to: Communications Network - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
* If there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present in the ABS module, INSPECT the ABS module ignition voltage circuit C135-35 and BJB fuse 25 (10A) for an open, short to ground or excessive voltage and REPAIR as necessary.
ABS false activation, ABS too sensitive, ABS activates on normal stop Front or rear suspension concern ELIMINATE the front and rear suspension as the cause of the problem. REFER to: Suspension System .
RCM mounting CONFIRM the RCM is mounted correctly. REFER to: Restraints Control Module (RCM) .
Loose wheel speed sensor or excessive air gap INSPECT wheel speed sensor for looseness or excessive air gap. TIGHTEN or INSTALL new as necessary. REFER to: Front Wheel Speed Sensor . REFER to: Rear Wheel Speed Sensor .
Parking brake out of adjustment (dragging) REFER to: Parking Brake .
The brake vacuum pump runs continuously Refer to the Pinpoint Test GO to Pinpoint Test R 
The brake vacuum pump never runs Refer to the Pinpoint Test GO to Pinpoint Test R 
The hill start assist feature is inoperative, cannot be disabled or enabled Network concern
IPC concern
ABS module concern
Using a diagnostic scan tool, CARRY OUT the IPC self-test. DIAGNOSE all IPC Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). REFER to: Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes - 2.0L Duratec - Hybrid (96kW/130PS) .
Using a diagnostic scan tool, CARRY OUT the ABS module self-test. DIAGNOSE all ABS module Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). GO to DTC Chart: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module .
The traction control system cannot be disabled Refer to the Pinpoint Test GO to Pinpoint Test E 
RENDER: 1.0x

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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

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  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
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  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
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