The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude - ABS and Traction Control lights on, weird braking

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:22 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

Hello all, I'm having a frustrating issue with my 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, 2.4L, with about 85,000 miles. Both the ABS light and the Traction Control light (the squiggly car icon) have come on and stayed on. This happened a couple of days ago, and since then, the braking feels really weird.

Sometimes when I brake, especially at lower speeds, I feel a pulsing or grinding sensation through the pedal, even when I'm not on slippery surfaces. It feels like the ABS is engaging unnecessarily. I hooked up my basic OBD2 scanner, and it's showing a P0500 code, which points to a Vehicle Speed Sensor malfunction.

Could a single wheel speed sensor cause both these lights and the strange braking behavior? Which sensor should I even be looking at? Any tips on diagnosing or replacing these?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:22 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Yes, a single faulty wheel speed sensor is a very common cause for both the ABS and Traction Control lights to illuminate on your 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, and it absolutely explains the strange pulsing/grinding sensation you're feeling during braking. The P0500 code further supports this diagnosis.

Understanding the Issue:

  • Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS): These sensors monitor the rotational speed of each wheel. The ABS and Traction Control systems rely heavily on this data to determine if a wheel is locking up (ABS) or spinning excessively (Traction Control).
  • P0500 Code: This is a generic powertrain code indicating a malfunction in the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) circuit. On modern vehicles, the VSS signal is often derived from one or more wheel speed sensors. If one WSS is faulty, the system loses accurate speed data for that wheel, triggering the code and disabling related safety systems.
  • Unnecessary ABS Engagement: When a WSS fails, the ABS module might receive an erroneous signal (e.g., indicating one wheel is suddenly stopped or spinning much faster than the others), causing it to mistakenly activate the ABS system, leading to the pulsing/grinding sensation.

Diagnosis and Potential Fix:

  1. Identify the Faulty Sensor: While P0500 is generic, a more advanced scanner (or a shop's diagnostic tool) can often provide more specific ABS codes (e.g., C0031-C0034 for front/rear left/right WSS circuits) that pinpoint the exact wheel. Without that, you might have to inspect all four.
  2. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the wiring harnesses leading to each wheel speed sensor. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, corrosion, or disconnects. These sensors are exposed to road debris and can be damaged.
  3. Resistance Check (Advanced): If you have a multimeter, you can test the resistance of each sensor. Consult your vehicle's service manual for the correct resistance values. A sensor with an open circuit or significantly different resistance is likely faulty.
  4. Replacement: Wheel speed sensors are typically bolted into the wheel hub or knuckle. Replacement usually involves removing the wheel, unbolting the old sensor, disconnecting its electrical connector, and installing the new one. Ensure the new sensor is properly seated and the wiring is secure.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you can't pinpoint the sensor: If you're unable to determine which specific sensor is at fault or if the P0500 code persists after a visual check, a professional diagnostic scan will be necessary. They can read specific manufacturer codes.
  • If the issue persists: If replacing a sensor doesn't resolve the problem, there could be a more complex issue with the ABS module, wiring harness, or tone ring (the part the sensor reads).
  • Safety Concern: Driving with malfunctioning ABS and Traction Control can compromise your vehicle's safety, especially in emergency braking or slippery conditions. Address this issue promptly.
Menu

Help & account