Diagnostic Aids

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Suzuki Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Thoroughly inspect wiring and connectors when diagnosing intermittent DTC(s). This will include the following.

Removal of the protective conduit and inspection for wiring for damage, shorts and contamination.
Inspection for improperly formed and/or damaged terminals.
Checking terminal contact (retention force) by using a spare male / female terminal.
Removal of the terminals from the connectors to check for proper terminal to wire crimp.

If the drivers comments reflect that amber "ABS" warning light is ON only during moist environmental changes (rain, snow, vehicle wash), all wheel speed sensor circuitry should be thoroughly inspected for signs of water intrusion. If the DTC is not current, simulate the effects of water intrusion. Use the following procedure. Spray suspected area with a 5 percent salt water solution. Then test drive the vehicle over various road surfaces such as (bumps, turns, etc.) above 24 km/h (15 mph). If the DTC is set then replace suspected harness and/or sensor.

A careful visual inspection of the toothed ring for damaged such as cracks and tooth damage should be performed. If the DTC is set at the same speed every drive cycle, the toothed ring is most likely damaged.

Failure to perform the previous steps carefully and fully can result in misdiagnosis, unnecessary component replacement and reoccurrence of the DTC.