What, how, what do I need? ABS sensor

[TheWills]

Hi all, happy New Year.
Righto, I have an intermittent ABS light and plan to give the sensors a cleaning in the morning. Could someone let me know what sort of damage such as cable nicks I should be looking for while I'm at it.
How do I remove the sensors, are they clipped, locking collar, push fit or threaded?
Would I need any replacement items at all.
Thanks in advance, Dave.

[krobb45]

I just finished dealing with an ABS nightmare. I had the same problem as you and I decided to "take a look" at the sensors. Unless there is something obvious such as a broken sensor or severed wire, you will not be able to determine which sensor is causing the problem.

The front sensors have a basket and I found it impossible to remove the sensor without causing damage. The rear sensors do not have a basket, but they are still difficult to remove. I live in the northeast U.S., and our cars drive on salty roads for six months out of the year. This could be the reason I had difficulty removing the sensors. The best advice I have is to take it to the dealer and have them check it out for you. Or if you like to do things yourself, as I do, download the (free) VAG-COM software from http://www.ross-tech.com/index.html , buy an interface cable on ebay, and scan your ABS system to determine which sensor is causing the problem. You do not need to purchase the Software License to check or clear faults on the ABS system.

:beerchug:

[TheWills]

Thanks. Had a bit of clear weather yesterday afternoon so I managed to check things out. Wheel off, carefully twist and pull the sensor probe from the housings, quick scrub with a brillow with a squirt of WD40 on it reassemble. The front two had some dust from the brakes but not too bad, the rears however had a little stack of dust on the end. I still haven't managed to get out for a test drive yet, so I'll give it a quick spin later.
Downloaded the software last night and I'll be checking Ebay for the VAG COM lead this morning.