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2016 Charger SXT - ABS/Traction Control Lights & Erratic Speedometer

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:14 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Dodge Charger SXT

Hello Dodge forum! I'm having some weird electrical issues with my 2016 Dodge Charger SXT. For the past few days, the ABS light and the Traction Control light have been on constantly on my dash.

On top of that, my speedometer has started acting really erratic. It'll jump around, sometimes drop to zero while I'm driving, and then suddenly read correctly again. This happens intermittently. I'm worried about driving it like this. Could this be a wheel speed sensor issue, or something more serious with the ABS module? No check engine light, just these warning lights.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:14 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: The combination of ABS, Traction Control lights, and an erratic speedometer on your 2016 Dodge Charger SXT is a classic symptom set for a faulty wheel speed sensor. Here's what's likely happening and what to do:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensor Failure:

    • Function: Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. This data is crucial for the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The vehicle's speed is also often derived from one of these sensors (usually a front one).
    • Symptoms Explained: When a sensor fails or sends intermittent signals, the ABS and TCS systems get conflicting data, triggering their warning lights. If the speedometer relies on the faulty sensor, it will become erratic or drop out.
    • Common Causes: These sensors can fail due to dirt/debris, corrosion, damaged wiring, or internal electronic failure.

  2. Diagnostic Steps:

    • Scan for ABS Codes: While your regular OBD-II scanner might not show a Check Engine Light, a more advanced scanner (or one a mechanic uses) can read specific ABS/TCS fault codes. These codes will usually pinpoint which wheel speed sensor is faulty (e.g., C0031 for Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor).
    • Visual Inspection: Inspect the wiring and connector for each wheel speed sensor (located near the wheel hub/brake rotor) for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.

  3. Other Potential, Less Likely Causes:

    • ABS Module: While possible, a faulty ABS module is less common and usually presents with more consistent and severe braking issues. It's typically diagnosed after ruling out sensor issues.
    • Wheel Bearing: A severely worn wheel bearing can sometimes damage the reluctor ring (the toothed ring the sensor reads), leading to similar symptoms.

When to See a Shop: It's highly recommended to get your Charger to a shop for diagnosis. Driving with a malfunctioning ABS/TCS system means these safety features may not work correctly in an emergency braking or slippery condition. A mechanic can quickly scan for specific ABS codes, accurately identify the faulty sensor, and replace it. This is generally a straightforward repair once the problematic sensor is identified.

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