You just have to unplug the electrical connector(s) to the abs unit.

 

I did it, Thank You! That was my exact issue. At least my code scanner now connects and I can pass inspection. Ill work on which sensor is bad...weird that the obd2 reader wont connect without disabling the entire ABS module. Appreciate the help, this forum and the quick response.

Jay

 

Accords starting in 98 or 03 use CAN-bus networks so control units can communicate. Think of a CAN bus as the same two wires that multiple control units share/use to send digital information along the network for communication. If any control unit or the two wire communication line electrically fail, then the entire communication network can be disabled. The electrical failure on a control unit would also have to short one of those two wires to ground or power or cause an open circuit.

It sounds like your ABS module or the wiring to the abs module on those two wires is taking down the network. The individual ABS sensors aren't connected to the network, they connect to the control unit, and the control unit sends the information digitally along the network.

To diagnose, you'll have to do some electrical testing to figure out the specific failure. I'd say the ABS module is the most likely culprit, but you are not 100% guaranteed replacing the ABS module will fix the issue. I'd say you have a > 75% chance replacing will fix the problem. The electrical testing with the right tools will take time and is tedious. If done properly/thoroughly will 100% identify the root cause..

Avoid throwing parts at the problem like ABS sensors, as sensors probably won't solve the problem.

A quick check is to look at the electrical connection at the ABS module to see if any corrosion is present. Corrosion will be green or white crusty buildup on the pins that can mess up the circuit.