Legal question, sort of

James Snover

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My '03 Cobra ABS/traction control module has failed, allowing it to dump brake fluid. Ford no longer makes the part, and it seems no one has it in stock.

However, there is an ABS-delete module. Basically it's a carved hunk of billet aluminum that connects to the existing fittings. Put it in, bleed the brakes, and you're done. Brakes now work great, but, obviously, with no ABS and no traction control.

The question is: if I go that route, can I get the car inspected in the state of Texas? Because it will be throwing a flag on the now non-functioning ABS.

Anybody even know where to start on this?
 

MG0h3

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I think some company can rebuild the abs block. Not positive.

In TX were allowed to have 1 “not ready” when they scan it.

Not sure if a braking system failure is non pass though


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Deceptive

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Just get a used one or send yours out for repair.


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DiB14-SAFD

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Can’t remember the last time I even opened my car door for an inspection in San Antonio. Usually it’s just pull into the bay, flash lights and hit brakes. Show them insurance, pay and drive out.
 

CompOrange04GT

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Can’t remember the last time I even opened my car door for an inspection in San Antonio. Usually it’s just pull into the bay, flash lights and hit brakes. Show them insurance, pay and drive out.

Same in East Texas
 

JaCobro

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Did you check with white bear lake? It appears they might have it online.

As far as for passing an inspection. All that should matter is that you have functioning brakes. No noise when applied, and no red “BRAKE” light on. ABS system is not part of inspection. Even if the ABS light is on. This is how it’s done in NC anyway. I don’t see why it would be any different in TX. Also brakes/abs system is not part of emissions readiness monitors.

Or eBay has a few that look a bit weathered. This is the best I could find.
 

svtfocus2cobra

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If you were to bring this to my shop we would be scouring the US for used units or anyone who has one. Look hard for a used one before doing the delete.
 

SHOdown220

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I think some company can rebuild the abs block. Not positive.

In TX were allowed to have 1 “not ready” when they scan it.

Not sure if a braking system failure is non pass though


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Abs/traction control systems are not part of the readiness monitors. That’s for emission systems.

It’s been close to 10 years since I did inspections in NC but IIRC the only brake things we checked were no noise when pulling it in and parking brake held. Dash lights we looked for were MIL illuminating during key on and high beam indicator.

I would think you would be fine OP but Texas may be different on inspections
 

CobraBob

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You don't want to risk not have the functioning ABS and traction control. Used/re-built ones are available as you can see. #1 for your own safety, and #2 should you ever sell it down the road. You do not want to have to deal with it at that time, and to sell it without disclosing there is no ABS/traction control would be a HUGE mistake.
 

sonicx

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You don't want to risk not have the functioning ABS and traction control. Used/re-built ones are available as you can see. #1 for your own safety, and #2 should you ever sell it down the road. You do not want to have to deal with it at that time, and to sell it without disclosing there is no ABS/traction control would be a HUGE mistake.
Not having ABS isn’t really of a concern. I ordered my 04 GT from the factory w/o that option. I think that was the last year too as I’ve tried since and I get the ??? Or the laughs.
 

Blkkbgt

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If you delete the system and it becomes an issue during inspection you can probaby take the gauge cluster apart and pull the bulb.

I honestly would get a replacement unit though.
 

01yellercobra

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Do you have someone you can ask? If they say it won't be a problem pull the bulb. As stated the brake system is a separate scan in these cars.
 

P49Y-CY

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as mentioned braking won't be a problem. i think most of the cars i've ever driven in my lifetime had no abs.

but i do notice that my insurance policy says that the car has it. also pats. so i think that if it ever came down to a related claim, an insurance company could possibly deny it.
 

SolarYellow

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