Raff98
Junior Member
I did an extensive search for a more detailed guide on replacing the wonderful ABS module Ram hosed us with. There are some general guides out there. I thought I would pull it all together since I am sure many of you are on the “wait list” from the dealer for a module that will never come. I chose to buy a remanufactured one from eBay, which requires reprogramming the VIN to match your truck. This is what you need and how to replace and program it in detail. It is VERY long, but it is NOT difficult. You will then have advanced tools to diagnose other codes in the future instead of needing a dealer. Half of the work is done from the engine bay, half is behind the drivers side fender liner. I put in links for the tools I specifically needed.
What you need:
Impact wrench (to remove front tire)
Socket set
Mini-ratchet – (any one like it will work) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDFM9QHY?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
2” T20 torx bit – Generally, you will not be able to use a standard bit extension due to clearance/hole diameter to get at the screws.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCVKWKPM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
OBDLink MX+ OR OBDLink EX cable. Don’t cheap out and get another brand instead of OBDLink-MX+. It’s worth every penny
Android device or windows computer – (AlfaOBD link in the IOS APP Store is a DIFFERENT Program. AlfaOBD is NOT IOS compatible).
AlfaOBD software ~$50 - https://www.alfaobd.com/
Watch these two videos to give you a big picture of the process.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZZQXk-DC98
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61sh4GUevp4
Replacing the module:
What you need:
Impact wrench (to remove front tire)
Socket set
Mini-ratchet – (any one like it will work) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BDFM9QHY?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
2” T20 torx bit – Generally, you will not be able to use a standard bit extension due to clearance/hole diameter to get at the screws.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCVKWKPM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1
OBDLink MX+ OR OBDLink EX cable. Don’t cheap out and get another brand instead of OBDLink-MX+. It’s worth every penny
Android device or windows computer – (AlfaOBD link in the IOS APP Store is a DIFFERENT Program. AlfaOBD is NOT IOS compatible).
AlfaOBD software ~$50 - https://www.alfaobd.com/
Watch these two videos to give you a big picture of the process.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZZQXk-DC98
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=61sh4GUevp4
Replacing the module:
- Disconnect the negative battery cable.
- From the engine bay, remove the turbo inlet hose (clamp towards the front of the truck), and pull it back towards the passenger side.
- Remove the driver side front tire
- Starting from the front side of the fender wall, remove the retaining screws ½ way, to about the middle of the front axle. Note: There is one retaining screw in the middle of the fender wall that needs removal. You do not have to remove the whole fender well, just bend it back ½ way. You will be able to see the module and wiring harness straight ahead.
- Carefully remove the wiring harness plug. There are two clips that lock the wiring harness in place. Squeeze the two clips at the bottom of the plug and rotate it up to 90 degrees. This unlocks the plug, then gently wiggle the plug to disconnect it from the module.
- With the ratchet and 2” T20 torx bit, remove the 4 screws that hold the module in place. Two screws are accessible from the top, two are accessible from under the truck, one accessible from each side of the frame.
- Gently wiggle the ABS module off the pump.
- Make sure each “tube” on the ABS module still has a gasket in place.
- Some posts say they put a small amount of RTV sealant around the very edges of the new ABS module.
- Gently re-install the new module, and wiring harness.
- Re-install the turbo inlet hose.
- Reconnect the battery.
- Connect your device with AlfaOBD to the OBD port.
- Turn on your key to ACC. (it’s two clicks to the right using your key)
- Fire up AlfaOBD.
- Do a backup of your Body Control Module per the first video.
- Watch second video on programming the VIN
- Choose ABS on AlfaOBD.
- Make sure you select the correct “Select Control Unit” on AlfaOBD. If you have integrated trailer brakes, ensure you select that under “Select Control Unit”
- Read All Faults under the little engine icon.
- Clear All Faults.
- Follow the directions per the second video to reset the VIN. AlfaOBD will give a list of steps to follow.
- Run “Check All Faults”, it should be clear.
- Turn off the key, then start the truck. All the dash indicator lights should be out. (I had to disconnect the battery for 5 minutes and rerun the steps to program the VIN as I initially picked the wrong ABS module on Alfa OBD)
- Re-install the fender wall and tire.
- End. (you saved several hundred $$$ from a dealer, IF the dealer will even program the rebuilt module)
