The dreaded abs/tracs lights

deefer · Post by **deefer** » 22 Jan 2012, 04:04

Hi,
I have a 95 850 and the abs & tracs lights just came on.
I checked the connector, cleaned it and then the lights went out after reaching 20mph.
However they came back on 2 days later and now refuse to go out

I don't have boxes A & B for diagnostics under the bonnet, does this mean it is OBDII?
If so, can anyone recommend a lower priced OBDII comparable diagnostic unit that I could pick up from eBay?

Thanks!

Post by **jreed** » 22 Jan 2012, 04:53

The ABS/TRACS light may be telling you that there is damage to the ABS control unit.
There is a good thread on diagnosing the problem and a description of your various options for repair here:
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... 5&p=210992

One of the best write-ups on how to open up and repair the module by yourself is here:
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=12651

I think OBDII became the standard for the 1996 model year and onwards, so the 1995 probably shouldn't have it. Having said that, there is somebody else with a '95 who reports having the OBDII connector here:
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... =1&t=17254

Good luck!

deefer · Post by **deefer** » 22 Jan 2012, 08:11

Hi,
Thanks for the reply,

Definitely no obd1 boxes under the hood, so guess it must be obd2.
Weird though, as most 1995 on google either have obd1 or both.

Update on the abs/tracs lights.
I disconnected battery for 5 mins, when reconnected the abs/tracs lights remained on until I drove over 20mph
Then they went out.
Aggressive accelerating & braking couldn't get them on again.
Tracs on/off works ok.
Turn ignition on & abs/tracs lights on for 2-3 seconds.
Start engine & abs/tracs lighs on for 2-3 seconds then go out.

Left car parked for 4 hours and the abs/tracs lights are once again on all the time.

Abs module is a refurb and been tested.

Also, service light stays on for 2-3 minutes after starting engine, is this normal?

Thanks

Post by **JRL** » 22 Jan 2012, 08:21

Ask "Matt" he knows about ABS units, he rebuilds them.
[email protected]

Post by **bronxnativ** » 22 Jan 2012, 08:28

The 95 850 is OBDII. remove the cover that sits above your shifter. Either have Autozone or Advance check for codes OR you can purchase your own code reader at Autozone; they sell for about $50-$60 each. Keep in mind that they WILL NOT reset the code, they are no longer allowed too that's why it's best to buy your own reader.

If its a "refurbished" unit contact the refurbisher OR you can clean the contacts on your ABS sensors and the "teeth" on the CV joints; this may be the only issue. In addition, check the fuses for the ABS, I believe their are two of them on your car.

As far as your service light is concerned: their is no major issue here. It's just reminding you that service needs to be done to the car, ie tuneup. It will activate upon start up and turn off two minutes after car has been started. You can either cover it up with duct tape (the light display) or you can remove the actual bulb. Do a search on "service light" on our forum; plenty of comments on this.

gilhuly · Post by **gilhuly** » 22 Jan 2012, 08:41

If you want it fixed, contact Matty Moo at the email JRL provided. He does good work and at a very fair price. Otherwise, you have no ABS and annoying lights on. At least half the 850s rolling around out there have this. And TRACS was always about as useful as tits on a horse. I actually make sure mine is off in the snow. And yes, I am a Matty Moo satisfied customer both directly and for repairing other people's stuff.

Post by **Matty Moo** » 22 Jan 2012, 19:31

Unless things are different in Europe, 95 is the old style Bosch unit...not the ATE-Teves units that the 96-2001's use.

deefer · Post by **deefer** » 22 Jan 2012, 23:55

How would I know which unit I have?
All I can say from memory is that this unit has a large electrical connected that is held in place by its hinged lid.

Is Bosch better/worse than ATE-Teves?

Thanks

Post by **Matty Moo** » 24 Jan 2012, 17:18

I'm just waiting for the picture.

They're just two different systems. Up to 95 was the Bosch unit, after 95 was the Teves units. That's why I asked for the pic/part number. From what I know all 95's had the Bosch units.

Durability wise, the Bosch is better and as an added bonus you can pull your own codes. BUT, the bosch isn't rebuildable in the rare event it does fail. I haven't seen anybody that repairs them. IF you indeed have the Bosch unit and somebody claimed to repair it....then you might want to have a talk with them.

deefer · Post by **deefer** » 25 Jan 2012, 01:56

Pictures sent to you Matt