ABS and Traction Control Lights On - 2016 Chrysler 300

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Chrysler 300C

My 2016 Chrysler 300C just lit up with the ABS and Traction Control warning lights on the dash. They came on suddenly while I was driving yesterday and haven't gone off since. The car seems to drive fine, but I'm worried about safety. Could this be a simple sensor, or something more serious?

I haven't noticed any strange noises or changes in braking performance, but the constant lights are concerning. I checked the brake fluid, and it's at the correct level.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Chrysler 300? What was the fix?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The simultaneous illumination of the ABS and Traction Control lights on your 2016 Chrysler 300C typically points to an issue within the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) or one of its related components. While the car may seem to drive normally, these systems are crucial for safety, especially in emergency braking or slippery conditions.

Common Causes:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensors: These are the most frequent culprits. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If a sensor fails, becomes dirty, or its wiring is damaged, the ABS and Traction Control systems lose critical data, triggering the warning lights.
  2. ABS Module Failure: Less common but more serious, the ABS control module itself can fail. This module processes data from the wheel speed sensors and controls the ABS pump.
  3. Wiring Issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring in the ABS sensor circuits or to the ABS module can cause intermittent or constant warning lights.
  4. Tone Ring Damage: The tone ring (or reluctor ring) is a toothed ring that the wheel speed sensor reads. If it gets damaged or corroded, the sensor won't get an accurate reading.
  5. Low Brake Fluid: While you've checked this, it's a common cause for the brake warning light, which can sometimes accompany ABS/Traction Control warnings.

Diagnostics & Next Steps:

  1. OBD-II Scan (ABS Specific): A standard OBD-II scanner might not read ABS-specific codes. You'll need a more advanced scanner that can communicate with the ABS module. Look for codes such as:
    • C0031 (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit)
    • C0034 (Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit)
    • C0037 (Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit)
    • C0040 (Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit)
    • Codes related to the ABS pump motor or valve circuits (e.g., C0050, C0051).
  2. Visual Inspection: Check each wheel speed sensor and its wiring for visible damage, dirt, or corrosion. Sometimes, road debris can damage these components.
  3. Brake System Check: Ensure brake pads are not excessively worn, as this can sometimes indirectly affect sensor readings.

When to See a Shop:

It's highly recommended to have your Chrysler 300 inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Driving without functioning ABS and Traction Control can compromise your vehicle's safety in critical situations. A shop can accurately diagnose the issue using specialized equipment to read ABS codes, test sensor functionality, and inspect the ABS module and wiring harness.