ABS light on after non-use

[Cruzader66]

Hey folks, I have an odd issue that has been coming up recently. The ABS light comes on after the truck has not been used in a few days. But the light shuts off after a few miles and one or two starts of the engine. I don't notice anything out of the ordinary with the braking. It happens rain or shine, and the temps have recently been unseasonably mild here in the Northeast. It doesn't really bother me but I think it's just weird. Should I be worried? I'm thinking that after a few days sitting, it just needs to build pressure, or does that make sense? Is it an early warning sign that something expensive is about to happen in the near future?? Thanks for any input . . .

[Towncivilian]

How long ago was the brake fluid flushed? Dirty fluid can possibly impact the operation of the ABS system.

[CanuckQx4]

Definetely check the fluid level in the resevoir. And also its colour/appearance.

It probably needs to be topped up or at most completely flushed, which is only $20 and an hour with your buddy, mostly spent taking the tires on and off

[Cruzader66]

I bought the truck back in Oct. and have no idea when the last fluid flush was. Guess I should go do that . . we'll see if that solves the problem.

[Towncivilian]

Depending on your year and truck configuration, you may need to flush the load sensing valve first. Read more details under the "Brakes" section in this thread.

[ARKQX33V6]

When you flush the system make sure to do it in the correct order and BE AWARE THAT THE BLEED NIPPLES ARE NOT BROKEN OFF when you turn them, they may be rusted solid.

If a small ring wrench cannot open them, then try to tighten then back off. Still tight, some penetrating oil may do. With a vibration set up.

Clean the area when they open and drain more than you think, and don't forget about activating the ABS, and further draining the brake fluid. Keep the M/C topped up

[Towncivilian]

Activating the ABS is only possible using a CONSULT tool, so it may be wise to flush the brake fluid, then go actuate ABS several times in an empty parking lot and rebleed to ensure all old fluid is out of the system and everything has fresh brake fluid.

What year Pathfinder do you have?

[Cruzader66]

It's a 2002 LE. I greatly appreciate the advice and this forum is great for that. But in the end I've decided to just let the dealership look at it, since I have to bring it in for the strut tower recall issue at some point anyway. Not much into working on my cars these days as I have so much work restoring my house right now . . . too much to do, so little time.