ABS light comes on

[SHOisfun]

Guys,

I've got this problem while driving, the car will shut off real quick the back on and the ABS light comes on and stays on. The check engine light came on today, stayed on and codes 172 and 176 came on. Runs rough in the morning too. Occasionally the car won't start and all the clock resets itself as if the battery is dead. The a minute later the car starts and runs perfect. Battery was tested and ok. O2 sensor?

 

[rubydist]

It sounds like more than one issue.

the 172 and 176 could indicate that you need new o2 sensors. However, it just as easily could indicate a vacuum leak after the mafs. The less expensive place to start is by checking all the vacuum lines to the intake manifold to make sure none are off, broken, cracked, split, etc.

The clock resetting, etc. requires battery voltage lower than around 11V, so since it is intermittent that suggests a bad connection somewhere. Again, check all the wires, power and ground, from the battery to see if there is a loose or corroded connection somewhere.

 

[Storm-Chaser]

Get the charging system tested. Low alternator output can cause most of the symptoms you described. Have the alternator output tested, as well as voltage output to the battery from the alternator, at the battery post.

Have you noticed any flickering in the interior/dash lights at night, or variations in intensity from one time to the next . . . ?

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Add checking all battery/alternator/power dist. cables to the things from the above post to check. Make sure they are clean and attached tightly. You don't mention ATX or MTX, but in ATX cars it's common for the cable going into the lug on the B+ terminal on the back of the alternator can pull loose due to engine movement and cause the exact symptoms you're seeing.

The 172 and 176 codes are probably unrelated to an electrical issue, I would suggest a MAF cleaning to start.

 

[SHOisfun]

Thanks so much. I'll check all that. Yes, I've noticed my clock kinda flickering now and then.

How do you clean MAF? How often do you replace and how do you know when to?

This forum is fun. I wish I had the knowledge to help others.

 

[SHOisfun]

Oh, I forgot. For me, it can only me a manual!