1997 Grand Prix SE 3800. 160,500K. Owned since 159,500K.
When I first start the car and put it in gear I hear a brief, one time grinding noise which I think is coming from abs pump the first time i hit brakes. Been this way for about a month without any dash lights coming on.
Its snowing now in MI and I got curious so I set the ABS off a couple times on some snow and as I suspected, the same brief grinding noise occurs. No warning lights until, yesterday, pulling into my business college last night my ABS light lit up, accompanied by the "TRAC OFF" light, as well as the "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE" light. It had been days since I set off the abs.
Is this part of some redundant system, specifically if your ABS malfunctions does the Traction control also shut off? Maybe the tire pressure light comes on to warn drivers that there are no computers aiding their driving and they should actually *gasp* check their tire pressure?
Tried to extinguish the "TRAC OFF" but pushing the "TRAC" button did nothing, it blinked off for a split second and the light turned right back on. Also held the button under the driver side dash but couldn't reset the "check tire pressure" light. I've read up a little about related issues. Does not appear to be a bad sensor, rather a mechanical issue in the ABS system. Haven't driven since yesterday.
Also, in addition to above mentioned mechanical problems, battery is wicked old and shows signs of it: turning on rear defrost will decrease RPMs subtly at idle, and dim headlamps for a few seconds. Alternator issue as well?
What do you fellas think, and should I pull the ABS fuse until I can have the pump repaired/replaced?
Thanks
-Scott