revised values.

Voltage DTC

SYSTEM IMPACT DURING ACTIVE
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs)

Steering Angle Sensor DTC

ABS PARTIAL SHUTDOWN
Depending on which component the DTC is detected,
the Bendix ABS, ATC, and ESP system functions may
be fully or partially disabled. Even with the ABS indicator
lamp illuminated, the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller may
still provide ABS function on wheels that are not affected.
The ABS system Controller should be serviced as soon
as possible.

The Bendix ATC and ESP systems are disabled. ABS
remains active.

ECU DTC
The Bendix ABS, ATC, and ESP systems are disabled.
The system reverts to normal braking.

While voltage is out of range, Bendix ABS, ATC, and ESP
systems are disabled. The system reverts to normal
braking. When the correct voltage level is restored, full
ABS and ATC function is available. The operating voltage
range is 9.0 to 17.0 VDC for 12 volt systems, and 20 to 33.5
volts for 24 volt systems.

The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

Yaw Rate/Lateral Acceleration Sensor DTC
The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

Brake Demand Pressure Sensor DTC
The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

Steer Axle ABS Modulator DTC

Load Sensor DTC

ABS on the affected wheel is disabled. ABS and ATC on
all other wheels remains active. The Bendix ESP system
with the EC‑80 Controller is disabled.

The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

Drive Axle/Additional Axle ABS Modulator DTC

Steer Axle Traction Control Valve (TCV) DTC

ATC is disabled. ABS on the affected wheel is disabled.
ABS on all other wheels remains active. The Bendix ESP
EC‑80 system is disabled.

Steer Axle Wheel Speed Sensor DTC
The wheel with the DTC is still controlled by using input
from the remaining wheel speed sensor on the steer axle.
ABS remains active on the rear wheels. The Bendix ATC
and ESP systems are disabled.

The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

Trailer Pressure Modulator Valve (PMV) DTC
The Bendix ESP system is disabled. Bendix ABS and ATC
systems remain active.

15

SYSTEM RECONFIGURATION
®

®

™

The Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller is designed to
allow the technician to change the default system settings
(chosen by the vehicle OEM) to provide additional or
customized features.
Depending on the model, the customizable features include
ABS control settings, engine module communication etc.
Many of these settings can be reconfigured using a handheld or PC-based software, such as the Bendix® ACom®
Diagnostic software.

ECU RECONFIGURATION
Reconfiguring a Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller may be
carried out by using the Blink Code Switch or by using a
hand-held or PC-based diagnostic tool.
Note: During the reconfiguration process — and
independently from any reconfiguration being carried out
by the technician — the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) will
automatically check the J1939 serial link and communicate
with other vehicle modules. In particular, if the serial link
shows that the vehicle has a retarder device present, the
ECU will configure itself to communicate with the retarder
device for improved ABS performance. For example, if
the ECU detects the presence of a retarder disable relay
during a reconfiguration, it will configure itself to control the
relay to disable the retarding device as needed.

Reconfiguration Using the Blink Code Switch
With ignition power removed from the Bendix ESP EC‑80
Controller, depress the Blink Code Switch. After the
ignition power is activated, depress and release the switch
seven (7) times to initiate a reconfiguration event.

Diagnostic Tool
A reconfiguration event may be initiated using a hand-held
or PC-based diagnostic tool to communicate with the ECU
over the SAE J1939 diagnostic link.

6S/5M Configuration
A Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller will configure for 6S/5M
operation when a reconfiguration event is initiated, and the
ECU detects that an additional-axle Pressure Modulating
Valve (PMV) is wired as follows:
PMV Connector
Hold
Release
Common

16

ECU Connector
Right Additional Axle Hold
Left Additional Axle Release
Right Additional Axle Common

DATA STORAGE
Depending on the product type and version, Bendix ®
brand ECUs may store data related to troubleshooting,
diagnostics, service needs, vehicle system operating
status, and vehicle operator inputs. No personally
identifying data (e.g. name, gender or age) is recorded.
Bendix will not access stored ECU data or share it with
others except: with the consent of the vehicle owner; in
response to an official request by law enforcement or
other governmental agency; as part of Bendix’s defense
of litigation; or, as otherwise required by law. Data that
Bendix receives may also be used for research purposes
or made available to others for research purposes, where
a need is shown and the data is not linked to a specific
vehicle or owner.
Bendix brand antilock ECUs are not designed to store
data for purposes of accident reconstruction and Bendix
ACom Diagnostic Software is not intended to retrieve data
for purposes of accident reconstruction. Bendix makes no
representations as to the accuracy of data retrieved and
interpreted from Bendix ECUs for purposes of accident
reconstruction.

Troubleshooting: General
GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES
Read and follow the General Safety Guidelines shown on
page two (2) of this document.

REMOVAL OF THE BENDIX® ESP® EC‑80™
CONTROLLER ASSEMBLY
1. Turn vehicle ignition off.
2. Remove as much contamination as possible prior to
disconnecting electrical connections.
3. Note the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller assembly
mounting position on the vehicle.
4. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the Controller.
5. Remove and retain the mounting bolts that secure the
Controller.

The VIN of the vehicle is stored in the Bendix ESP
EC‑80 Controller's internal memory, and is crosschecked by the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) using
information obtained from other vehicle Controller(s).
If the VIN stored in the ECU does not match the VIN
obtained from the other vehicle Controller(s), the ECU
will generate an ECU Internal VIN Mismatch Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC).

INSTALLING A NEW BENDIX ESP EC‑80
CONTROLLER

When replacing the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller,
verify with the OEM service department that the unit
you are installing has the correct parameter set.
Failure to do so could result in a loss of features or
degraded ESP performance.
For further information, contact either the vehicle
manufacturer, Bendix, or your local authorized Bendix
distributor.
1. Position and secure the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller
in the original mounting orientation using the mounting
bolts retained during removal. Use no more torque than
is necessary to firmly secure the ECU into position.
Over-tightening the mounting hardware can cause
damage to the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller.
2. Reconnect the electrical connectors to the Bendix
EC‑80 Controller.
3. Apply power and monitor the Bendix ESP EC‑80
Controller power‑up sequence to Verify the proper
system operation.
See Troubleshooting: Wiring section beginning on page 45
for more information on wire harnesses.

Accordingly, do not attempt to move a Bendix ESP
EC‑80 Controller from one vehicle to another.

OBTAINING A NEW BENDIX® ESP® EC‑80™
CONTROLLER
Should the Bendix ESP EC‑ 80 Controller require
replacement, certain steps must be followed:
1. Record the vehicle model, VIN, year and date of
manufacture from the vehicle.
2. Record the part number of the Bendix ESP EC‑80
Controller.
3. Provide this information to your local OEM vehicle
service department to obtain a new Bendix ESP EC‑80
ECU. The OEM service department will install the same
parameter set in the new Controller that was loaded into
the original ECU at the vehicle OEM assembly facility.

The Bendix ESP system with the EC‑80 Controller is
validated with specific Bendix® brand components.
Always use Bendix brand replacement parts to
prevent compromising system per formance.
Bendix is not able to validate the safe and reliable
use of substitute or alternate components that
may be available from other manufacturers, since
suppliers of a non-Bendix brand ABS component
may implement design changes in their component
(without the knowledge or approval of Bendix) which
could negatively affect antilock system reliability
and braking performance issues.

17

STEERING ANGLE SENSOR MAINTENANCE
Service Checks:
1. Check all wiring and connectors. Some installations
also include an intermediate connector from the
steering angle sensor to the main vehicle wire harness.
Make sure all connections are free from visible damage.
2. Examine the sensor. Make sure the sensor, its
mounting screws, and the interface between the hub
and the steering column are not damaged.
Diagnostics:
The Bendix® brand steering angle sensor is only operational
in conjunction with a Bendix® ESP® EC‑80™ Controller. No
independent diagnostics can be performed on the sensor.
See pages 38-39 for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
associated with this device.

3. Assemble to column non-moving plate with three selflocking screws.
4. Tighten screws to steering column manufacturer's
recommended torque specification.
5. Reconnect the connector. Ensure that there will be no
force applied to the sensor because the connector is
pulling on the sensor body.
6. If the wire harness leading to the sensor is being
replaced, ensure that it is adequately tie wrapped
so that the full motion of the steering column can be
achieved without pulling apart the connectors.
7. Reinstall the column sheathing. The sensor is not
protected against dirt or water intrusion, so care
must be taken not to introduce these elements during
installation.

Removal:
1. Remove steering column sheathing.

STEERING ANGLE SENSOR CALIBRATION

2. Depending upon manufacturer, the steering angle
sensor could be located either near the steering wheel,
necessitating the removal of the steering wheel, or
near the joint to the vehicle steering mechanism,
necessitating the disconnection of this linkage.

The steering angle sensor calibration can only be achieved
when the sensor is powered by the Bendix ESP EC‑80
Controller. No stand-alone sensor calibration can be
carried out. The calibration procedure is performed
using Bendix ® ACom ® Diagnostic software V6.7.2.5 or
higher. See “Troubleshooting Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Steering Angle Sensor (Bendix ® SAS‑60™)” for the
calibration procedure using this tool. The sensor must be
recalibrated using ACom Diagnostic Software after any of
these situations:

3. Unplug sensor cable assembly from body of sensor.
Squeeze the mounting tabs and pull gently on the
connector until it disengages.
4. Unscrew all three of the mounting screws that hold the
body of the sensor to the steering column body.
5. Slide the sensor over the column to remove. Take note
if the sensor label is facing upward or downward.
Installation:
1. Obtain a new sensor. The sensor is not repairable in
the field.
2. Slide the sensor over the column. The center hub of the
sensor must be aligned with the corresponding notch
in the column. Different column manufacturers may
implement this hub alignment in different ways. The
sensor label should be facing in the same direction as
the removed sensor.

• Replacement of the steering angle sensor;
• Any opening of the connector hub from the steering angle
sensor to the column;
• Any maintenance or repair work on the steering linkage,
steering gear or other related mechanism;
• Adjustment of the wheel alignment or wheel track; or
• After an accident that may have led to damage of the
steering angle sensor or assembly

If the steering angle sensor is not properly
recalibrated as needed, the yaw control system may
not function properly, which can result in a loss of
vehicle control.

18

YAW RATE/LATERAL ACCELERATION
SENSOR MAINTENANCE

Different generations of yaw rate/lateral acceleration
sensors are not compatible. Only replace these
sensors with exactly the same device.

Service Checks:
1. Check all wiring and connectors. Make sure all
connections are free from visible damage.
2. Examine the sensor. Make sure the sensor, its
mounting bolts, and the mounting bracket are not
damaged.
3. Check the vent hole in underbody of sensor housing.
The vent hole should remain free from paint and debris
at all times.
Diagnostics:
The yaw rate sensor is only operational in conjunction with
a Bendix® ABS, ATC or ESP® system with the EC‑80™
Controller. No independent diagnostics can be performed
on the sensor. See pages 40-41 for Diagnostic Trouble
Codes associated with this device.
Removal:
1. Unplug the sensor cable assembly from body of sensor.
The connector must be twisted and pulled gently to
release.
2. In some mounting configurations, the sensor can be
removed independently from its mounting bracket.
Otherwise, remove entire assembly, then remove
sensor from bracket.
3. Take note of the direction in which the connector is
pointed.
Installation:
1. Obtain a new sensor. The sensor is not repairable in
the field.

The location of the Yaw Rate Sensor on the vehicle,
the means of fastening the unit to the vehicle, and
the sensor's orientation, MUST NOT BE ALTERED.
When servicing, an identical component must be
used in the same orientation (using OEM brackets
& torque requirements). During installation,
follow the OEM leveling guidelines. If any of these
requirements are not followed, the Bendix ESP
system may not function properly, which can result
in incidents leading to loss of vehicle control.

2. Assembly yaw rate sensor housing to mounting bracket.
The bracket must be the same design as used on the
original vehicle configuration.
3. For Bendix® YAS-60™ Yaw Rate Sensors, the correct
fasteners are three M8 size bolts, and the fixing torque
should be 20 Nm (±2 Nm). For Bendix® YAS-70X™ Yaw
Rate Sensors, the correct fasteners are two M10 size
bolts (1.5 mm pitch angle), or OEM-supplied hardware,
and the fixing torque should be 46 Nm (±9 Nm). Note
that the Bendix YAS-70X sensor has two alternate
designs, one with an aligning post — see the kit
instruction sheet for more information. In all cases,
the connector should be facing in the same direction
as the removed sensor. The unit must not be installed
upside-down where there is a pressure-balancing hole.
4. The sensor should be as level as possible and parallel
to the road surface when installed on the vehicle.
5. Reconnect the connector. Ensure that there will be no
force applied to the sensor because the connector is
pulling on the sensor body.

When removing or installing the sensor, care must
be used to prevent damage. Do not strike or pry
the sensor. Do not use an impact tool to install the
mounting hardware.

Sensor Location Modifications
The location and orientation of the Yaw Rate Sensor must
not be altered. When servicing, an identical component
must be used in the same orientation (using OEM brackets
& torque requirements). During installation follow the OEM
leveling guidelines.
Yaw Rate Sensor Calibration:
The yaw rate sensor calibration can only be achieved via
the Bendix ESP system with the EC‑80 Controller. The
sensor must be recalibrated after any of these situations:
• Replacement of the sensor
• After an accident that may have led to damage of the
yaw rate sensor
The calibration procedure is performed using Bendix ®
ACom® Diagnostic Software V6.7.2.5 or higher.
See “Troubleshooting Diagnostic Trouble Codes: Yaw Rate
Sensor” for the calibration procedure.

19

BRAKE DEMAND SENSOR CALIBRATION
Calibration must be performed under the following conditions:

PRESSURE SENSOR INSTALLATION
REQUIREMENTS

•

After servicing any pressure sensor related Diagnostic
Trouble Codes (DTCs)
• Replacement of any sensor
The calibration procedure is performed using Bendix ®
ACom® Diagnostic Software V6.7.2.5 (or higher).

Service Checks:
1. Check all wiring and connectors. Make sure all
connections are free from visible damage.
2. Examine the sensor. Make sure the sensor and its
interface to the pressure location are not damaged.

See “Troubleshooting Diagnostic Trouble Codes: Brake
Demand Sensor/Load Sensor” for the calibration procedure.

Diagnostics:
See the test diagram supplied by the Bendix ACom
Diagnostic Software. The pressure sensor can be
independently diagnosed when supplied with a five volt
voltage supply to the B location and ground to the A
location shown in the test diagram. Signal output on
the C location should read approximately 0.5V if there is
no pressure applied. The signal output should increase
proportionately as pressure is applied, up to a maximum
of 4.5V at 150 psi.

Removal:
1. Unplug sensor cable assembly from body of sensor.
Pull gently on the mounting tab and connector until it
disengages.
2. Remove sensor from its pressure mounting using
approved air brake push in fitting tools.
Installation:
1. Obtain a new sensor. The sensor is not repairable in
the field.
2. Insert sensor into pressure fitting using approved tools.
3. Reconnect the connector. Ensure that there will be no
force applied to the sensor because the connector is
pulling on the sensor body.
4. If the wire harness leading to the sensor is being
replaced, ensure that it is adequately tie wrapped.
Pressure Sensor Calibration:
There is no need for pressure sensor calibration as long
as the part replaced is identical to the part removed and a
component approved for use with the Bendix® ESP® system
with EC-80™ Controllers. However, replacement of brake
demand sensors or clearing of demand pressure sensor
related DTCs require the following:
1. Use Bendix ACom Diagnostic Software V6.7.2.5 (or
higher) to clear the active pressure sensor DTC.
2. Carrying out the demand pressure sensor initialization
procedure which involves applying service brakes of
90 psi or greater for three (3) seconds (while stationary).
Once this procedure is carried out successfully, if there are
no other active DTCs, the ATC/ESP indicator lamp will no
longer be illuminated.

20

Troubleshooting: Blink Codes and Diagnostic Modes
ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (ECU)
DIAGNOSTICS
®

®

™

The Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller contains self-testing
diagnostic circuitry that continuously checks for the normal
operation of internal components and circuitry, as well as
external ABS components and wiring.

Active Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
When an erroneous system condition is detected, the
Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller:
1. Illuminates the appropriate indicator lamp(s) and
disengages part or all of the Bendix ABS, ATC and
ESP system functions. (See ABS Partial Shutdown,
on page 15.);
2. Places the appropriate DTC information in the Electronic
Control Unit (ECU) memory; and
3. Communicates the appropriate DTC information over
the serial communications diagnostic link as required.
Hand-held or PC-based diagnostic tools attach to the
vehicle diagnostic connector, typically located on or
under the dash (see Figure 14).

BLINK CODES
Blink codes allow a technician to troubleshoot ABS
problems without using a hand-held or PC-based
diagnostic tool. Instead, information about the ABS system
is communicated by the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller using
the ABS indicator lamp to display sequences of blinks.
Note: The Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller will not enter the
diagnostic blink code mode if the wheel speed sensors
show that the vehicle is in motion. If the ECU is in the
diagnostic blink code mode and then detects vehicle
motion, it will exit the blink code mode.
In addition, by operating the Blink Code Switch as
described below, one of several diagnostic modes can be
entered. See Diagnostic Modes below.

Blink Code Switch Activation
When activating the Blink Code Switch:
1. Wait at least two seconds after “ignition on.” (Except
when entering Reconfiguration Mode - see System
Reconfiguration section on page 16.)
2. For the Bendix ESP EC‑80 Controller to recognize that
the switch is activated “on,” the technician must press
for at least 0.1 seconds, but less than five (5) seconds.
(If the switch is held for more than five (5) seconds, the
ECU will register a malfunctioning switch.)
3. Pauses between pressing the switch when a sequence
is required, (e.g. when changing mode) must not be
longer than two (2) seconds.
4. After a pause of three-and-a-half (3.5) seconds, the
ECU will begin responding with output information
blinks. See Figure 15 for an example.

FIGURE 14 - TYPICAL VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC
CONNECTOR LOCATIONS (J1939)

FIGURE 15 - EXAMPLE OF A BLINK CODE MESSAGE
21

Blink Code Timing

DIAGNOSTIC MODES

The Bendix ® ESP ® EC‑80™ Controller responds with
a sequence of blink codes. The overall blink code
response from the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is called
a “message.” Each message includes, depending on the
mode selected by the technician, a sequence of one or
more groups of blinks. Simply record the number of blinks
for each sequence and then use the troubleshooting index
on page 26 for active or inactive Diagnostic Trouble Codes
(DTCs) and you will be directed to the page that provides
troubleshooting information.

In order to communicate with the Bendix ESP EC‑80
Controller, there are several modes that the technician can
select to allow information to be retrieved, or other ECU
functions to be accessed.

NOTE:
1. Sequences of blinks illuminate the ABS indicator lamp
for half a second, with half-second pauses between
them.
2. Pauses between blink code digits are one-and-a-half
(1.5) seconds.
3. Pauses between blink code messages are two-and-ahalf (2.5) seconds.
4. The lamp remains on for five (5) seconds at the end of