Firstly, I cant get any codes off the ABS system because whatever problem I have clears itself by switching the key twice.

So basically, if I just start the car, more often than not, the ABS light comes on. If it does, and I try to get the code, when I switch the ignition to the on position after grounding pin 8, it clears.

I was thinking it may be a loose wire of the pump getting ready to quit.
Any ideas?

 

dont ground the pin then. start the car, wait for the ABS light to come on, then dont touch nothing and plug in an OBDII scanner and see what it says for ABS

 

Anyone with a Cipher near by to you? That software reads ABS codes. Odds are it's a wack sensor. Do you hear the ABS module make a strange buzzing noise just before start-up?

 

Yes, i hear the pump running every time. It runs longer on times the light is on.

I tried having the parts store read the ABS codes, but their reader that does ABS does not work on the maxima. Their non ABS model will. I am going to try another store tomorrow. The guy with the Snap On reader wants $85 to do it...

Are there test procedures for the sensors? I have not had time to page the bible for them yet.

 

you can try cleaning off the actual sensor part, could be sludge on it. otherwise check for continuity throughout the sensor wiring

 

I am going thru the same issue. My buddy that helped me put my struts on, hooked his Snap-On scanner and we went around to each wheel and gave it a spin. The screen looks like a square wave if it is picking up that the sensor is working. This is how we determined which wheel I hade the issue with.