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2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude - ABS and ESC Lights On, Rough Ride

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Emily N. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

My 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, with about 80,000 miles, just lit up the dashboard with the ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning lights. They both came on simultaneously while I was driving on the highway, and now they stay on constantly.

I also feel like the ride has gotten a bit rougher, almost like the suspension isn't absorbing bumps as well, though that might just be my imagination because of the lights. I haven't noticed any immediate braking issues, but I know these systems are important for safety.

I'm wondering if this is a common issue for this model year and what might be causing it. Could it be a wheel speed sensor, or something more serious? Any advice on where to start looking or what OBD codes I should expect?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:24 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS and ESC lights illuminate simultaneously on your 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude, it almost always indicates a fault within the wheel speed sensor system or a related component. These systems rely heavily on accurate wheel speed data to function correctly.

Common Causes:

  1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor: This is the most frequent culprit. Sensors can fail due to internal electrical issues, damage from road debris, or corrosion in the wiring harness.
  2. Damaged Wheel Speed Sensor Wiring: The wiring leading to the sensor can get chafed, cut, or corroded, interrupting the signal.
  3. Dirty/Damaged Tone Ring: The tone ring (or reluctor ring) is a toothed wheel that the sensor reads. If it's dirty, corroded, or damaged, the sensor won't get an accurate reading.
  4. ABS Module Failure: Less common, but a failing ABS control module can also trigger these lights. This is usually a more expensive repair.

Relevant OBD Codes (Examples):

  • C0031 - C0034: These are common codes for wheel speed sensor faults (C0031 for front left, C0032 for front right, C0033 for rear left, C0034 for rear right).
  • C0040 - C0043: May indicate issues with the wheel speed sensor circuit.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Scan for Codes: The first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to read any stored diagnostic trouble codes. This will pinpoint which wheel speed sensor or circuit is reporting a fault.
  2. Visual Inspection: Once you have a code, visually inspect the identified wheel speed sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check the tone ring behind the hub for debris or damage.
  3. Check for Debris: Sometimes, simply cleaning the sensor and tone ring can resolve the issue if dirt or metal shavings are interfering with the signal.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you don't have an OBD-II scanner or are unsure how to interpret the codes.
  • If visual inspection doesn't reveal the problem, as diagnosing electrical issues can be complex.
  • If the issue persists after basic checks. Driving with these lights on means your ABS and ESC systems are disabled, which can compromise safety, especially in emergency braking or slippery conditions. A professional can accurately diagnose and replace the faulty component.
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