FIJI 3779

I have a 2002 Protege ES, manual, 4 wheel disc brakes.

Recently, the ABS and the brake light came on. First thing I checked was the fluid, which is fine. I took it to a mechanic (I live on an Army post in Germany, so for Soldiers out there, it was an AAFES Car Care Center) and they said the code was C1175, and that it was either the sensor or a faulty wire. The place where I took it can't fix it; they suggested taking it to a dealer. Is there any way for me to test if it is the sensor or the wire so I can avoid taking it to a dealer? Please keep in mind that I don't know much about cars, but I do have access to our post's Auto Skills shop, where they have mechanics and tools to help Soldiers fix their own cars.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.