Viper ABS & Traction Failure Points to Speed Sensor

I had a very similar issue with my 2006 Viper SRT-10. As someone with moderate experience working on performance cars, I initially thought it was just a speed sensor issue as well. After checking the speedometer and noticing inconsistent readings, I took it to a specialized workshop. Their diagnostic showed the ABS control unit was actually defective, not just the sensors. The ECM was receiving incorrect input from the faulty control unit, which triggered both the ABS and traction control warnings on the dashboard. The repair required replacing the entire ABS control unit, which ended up costing 1000€. While expensive, it completely resolved both the ABS and traction control issues. The system now engages properly during hard braking. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Any unusual sounds when braking? Are you getting inconsistent speedometer readings? Did the issue start suddenly or develop gradually? Have you noticed any other warning lights? This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my control unit failure.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My odometer shows 84328 KM and the last service was done 3 months ago. To answer your questions: The speedometer readings are indeed inconsistent, sometimes fluctuating at steady speeds. No unusual sounds during braking, but the dashboard warning lights came on suddenly during a rainy drive. No other warning lights are active. The diagnostic report from my last service shows all sensors were functioning normally then, which makes me wonder if this could be a wiring issue rather than a complete ABS control unit failure. The irregular speedometer behavior seems to point towards a sensor or wiring problem. Would checking the wheel speed sensor connections be a good first step before replacing the entire ABS unit?

Thanks for those details. Your symptoms do sound different from what I experienced with my Viper. The sudden onset during rain combined with inconsistent speedometer readings but no grinding noises does point more toward a wiring or sensor connection issue rather than a complete ABS control unit failure. In my case, the ABS problems were accompanied by grinding sounds and multiple warning lights. The speedometer issues were more constant, not intermittent like yours. When my ABS control unit failed, it affected the ECM readings consistently. Since your odometer reading is relatively low and sensors checked out fine recently, checking the wheel speed sensor connections is definitely a smart first step. Water intrusion can corrode these connections, especially affecting the transmission of speed signals to both the ABS system and speedometer. A possible troubleshooting sequence: 1. Inspect all ABS sensor wiring for visible damage 2. Clean sensor connections 3. Check voltage readings at each wheel sensor 4. Test the ground connections This approach could save you the 1000€ I spent on a new control unit if the issue is just corroded or loose connections affecting the speed signal readings.

Thanks for the input. Based on the discussion, I feel more confident about my initial speed sensor theory, but with a focus on the wiring rather than the sensors themselves. The fact that the issues started during rain and the speedometer shows inconsistent readings really matches with potential wiring problems. I will start by having the wheel speed sensor connections checked and cleaned, especially since my last diagnostic showed all sensors working properly. This makes more sense than immediately replacing the entire ABS control unit, particularly since I am not experiencing the grinding sounds or multiple warning lights that typically indicate a full unit failure. The intermittent nature of my speedometer issues and the timing with the rain definitely suggests checking the sensor wiring and connections first. If cleaning and securing the connections doesnt resolve the input problems, then I can consider more extensive repairs. Will book an appointment to have the ABS sensor wiring inspected and report back with the results. Hoping for a simpler fix than a complete control unit replacement.