Replace the ABS Module?

My 2005 4x4, 2.7 MT w/o VSC Tacoma has both of its ABS and Brake warning lights on about half the time. They go on and off together randomly. Sometimes when I press the brake pedal, I can feel the ABS actuator doing something, even though its a normal stop. Fluid level is full, and I have confirmed that the fluid level sensor is not the culprit by unplugging it. Same problem. I think the ABS module is bad. I can find used ones on ebay for $150 or so. I just wonder about replacing it. Can I just replace the electrical module and not unhook any of the brake lines and therefore not have to bleed the brakes? Or, do I have to replace the whole unit, bleed the brakes, etc?

Does the unit have to be programmed after installation using Techstream? The FSM didn't say anything like that...it just said to "Check Brake Actuator with Intelligent Tester", which appears to just be a simple resistance check between two pins on the connector.

 

You really need to pull the codes with a scanner and see what the problem is, most likely you have a speed sensor that is dropping out.
ABS modules rarely fail but speed sensors failing are quite common, the symptom you describe is a classic symptom of a speed sensor dropping out at low speeds but without knowing what code(s) are turning the light's on your just wasting money throwing parts at it.

 

You can pull the codes yourself.
A scan tool makes it much easier.
But it can be done with a jumper wire.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/c0210-rr-wheel-sensor-with-abs-brake-slip-indicator-lights-fixed-bad-rear-wheel-bearing.561813/#post-18396971

It really helps if you had experience reading them.
To read them, you’ll need to know how make since of the blink ABS light.
It’s basically the same as the video below. Except you won’t get the 1-2 or 12 code.
It will just flash the current code(s).

If you don’t feel comfortable doing this. Don’t do it.
Go to a local tire shop, I find they are usually a lot more helpful about checking codes with a scanner and not charging you. Most auto parts stores scammers don’t read abs. Or at least not the one around me. I bought the cheapest one that would read abs from harbor freight. I think it was about $100 or so a few years back.

https://youtu.be/i_Y7TiVqsBA

 

Agreed on extracting the trouble codes. I didn't realize that an you could still use a jumper wire to get them though. I've done it on older vehicles and looks like a similar procedure here. I have a code scanner, but it won't read ABS codes, only ECU.

What has lead me to the ABS module is that the brake warning light, and the ABS warning light come on together, and go off together every time. If I understand correctly, a bad wheel sensor will not trigger the brake warning light, only the ABS light. Please correct me if I'm wrong on this.

This thread has also lead me in that direction. Apparently, a code for a left rear wheel sensor, doesn't necessarily mean that its a wheel sensor. Sounds like the wheel sensor is fairly easy to check though. I'm handy with an ohm meter.
Replacing ABS actuator/ECU | Tacoma World


I completely agree that I need to confirm the diagnosis before doing anything, but if we assume that the ABS module is bad just for discussion, can just the electronics portion of it be changed (as suggested on down in the thread I linked to above), or does the whole thing have to be changed (as is also suggested in the thread that I linked to)?

 

You should be able to providng the pump and valves are good in the hydraulic unit, I've done it before on other vehicles.
I'm sure you know this but if you go with a used module it has to match the configuration of your truck.

 

I want to thank everyone here, I never would have fixed my ABS light without this valuable resource.

 

What ended up solving your problem. I’m going through the same problem right now.