1998 Ford Ranger: ABS light or ABS activating

6 of the 575 complaints about the 1998 Ford Ranger describe ABS light or ABS activating.

owner complaints: 6
of this car's complaints: 1%
recalls: 0

Is there a fix? 13 service bulletins cover this area of the car. See below

ABS light or ABS activating by model year

2025
3
2024
6
2021
1
2020
1
2019
2
2009
1
2008
1
2007
1
2005
1
2004
3
2003
5
2002
7
2001
7
2000
15
1999
18
1998
6
1997
9
1996
11
1995
22
1994
16
1993
10
1992
7
1991
3

What owners say

Filed Mar 25, 2009 · Brakes · 125,000 miles · CA

Everytime I press my brake pedal, there is a grinding/pulsating and the vehicle slowly "skids" to a stop, usually only 10-15 feet after I intended on stopping. Less than one (1) year ago, the brakes went out on my 1998 ford ranger. The mechanic told me that the ABS on the vehicle is where the problem was occurring, yet he didn't know how to fix it. He said the unnecessary pressure being applied by the ABS system caused my master cylinder's seals to crack. I paid over $400 for all brake repairs. Ten (10) months later, I'm driving on a freeway at 60 m.p.h. And my exit is approaching. When attempting to stop, I was again left with no brakes. I narrowly avoided a major accident. Thankfully I had the sense of mind to push my emergency brake (which is awkwardly located on a pick-up truck) and avoid a numerous car pile-up on a busy los angeles freeway. I took the vehicle to a new mechanic as well as a pep boys auto center, and was told that the master cylinder's seals were again cracked, and charged over $400 for the same repairs as before. I've searched numerous online forums, and spoken to numerous mechanics and ford ranger owners and every single one of them is very familiar with the problem and has faced near-death situations due to this manufacturing error. I would really appreciate a recall as it's the only one to assure the problem is fixed and the safety of others on the road (as the brakes will no longer work without any warning).

Filed Aug 14, 2002 · Brakes · CA

The ABS locks up and skids every morning when the vehicle is first started and every time it is driven in the rain. The dealer and mechanics have both verified that the brakes work fine. The problem is difficult to demonstrate. When the brakes warm up they operate fine.

Filed Jul 26, 2002 · Brakes · LA

Abs light stays on while driving. Dealer notified.

Filed Mar 21, 2000 · Brakes · CA · crash

While applying the brakes pedal would go to the floor. Failed to bounce back like ABS brakes were suppose too. Took to dealership & master cylinder/front brakes were replaced. Brake problem was not solved. Dealership informed owner brakes work with pedal to floor. Due to lack of braking power, vehicle was involved in a wreck.

Filed Sep 1, 1999 · Brakes, Suspension · NY

Rear end (?) whines at various speeds,transmission slips. Dealer rebuilt differential, problem persists, dealer now has vehicle installing a new transmission trying to fix problem. Brake pedal pulses (not ABS)and steerings wheel shudders (left/right) when brakes are applied at all speeds. (not reported to dealer, have since found out that this is a common problem with this vehicle). Oil filter- to remove filter it must be wedged past the solenoid/starter. It come in contact with the exposed wires/lugs? On the starter. There is nothing protecting this exposed area. My dealer has been extremely courteous and understanding in dealing with the transmission/differential problem. I have not received any information from ford regarding these problems.through research on the internet I have come to believe that the problems described here are not limited to my experiences. Thank you.

Filed Jul 6, 1999 · Brakes · CA · 2 injuries

When applying ABS brakes, pedal traveled to the floor , causing extended stopping distance. Also, pressure applied to the brakes bent the brake pedal. *ak