Hey I just made an account for the forum in order to hopefully get some help with an ABS issue I’m having!
Recently got a 1999 4.0 Ranger 4x4 XLT

I’ve been having an issue with the ABS kicking in on my front left wheel (I have 4 wheel ABS) when I brake. This causes the truck to “lurch” or slide forward when I brake at low speeds of ~10mph or less. This happens every single time, on hard, dry, flat pavement. There is no ABS light on the dash either.

I started by putting in new pads, rotors, and calipers before realizing it was likely ABS causing the issue. I could feel the front left wheel having problems when braking so that’s where I went first. I disconnected the ABS sensor and test drove it and she braked perfectly! With this information (and tell me if I’m wrong) I can assume it’s an ABS issue specifically in the front left.

However, when I replaced the ABS sensor and it didn’t resolve the issue I turned to the tone ring. From my visual inspection I see no missing/broken notches or cracks in the ring or anything of the sort but it was very gunked up and dirty. I used brake cleaner and compressed air as well as a small screwdriver to clean the notches and yet still after cleaning up the tone ring the braking issue persists.
I like to pride myself on being able to work on my vehicles and fix issues but I am lost.

I’ve also noticed a burning smell when I’ve come back from test driving it the last couple of times, I’m not sure I’d this is a serious issue or just a typical result of the ABS malfunction and my new pads/rotors being worn in.

I scanned it for codes with my OBD reader and came up with a number of them, among which were P0500 (VSS system fault) and B1483 (Brake On/Off switch circuit failure). I don’t know if either of these are related to my issue but I ordered a new VSS sensor to replace the old one, that way I can at least clear that code. As for the B1483 I’m not really sure what it means.

If anyone has any information or could help in any way I truly do appreciate your time and input! I know this was a lot of typing and maybe over explaining but I figured the more information I give could help narrow down solutions. Thank you!

 

My guess is the P0500 VSS is the problem, ABS shouldn't be doing anything at that slow of speed, the VSS is giving the ABS module faulty info.

 

Thank you for the reply! I’ll give an update once I replace the VSS, part should get here Monday.

 

Replaced the old VSS sensor today but no luck solving the issue. P0500 code is still present and now I have a C1155 code (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Input Circuit Failure). Anybody have ideas on what’s causing the C1155 code? Other than the obvious answer of the wheel speed sensor since I already replaced that. Any help is appreciated! Thank you!