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2022 Jeep Cherokee Latitude - Pulsating Brakes & ABS Light On/Off

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Heather Y. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

Hi all,

I've got a 2022 Jeep Cherokee Latitude with about 35,000 miles on it, and I'm starting to experience some weird brake issues. When I apply the brakes, especially at higher speeds, I feel a distinct pulsation through the pedal. It's not constant, but it's definitely there.

To make things more confusing, the ABS warning light on the dash has started coming on intermittently. Sometimes it's on for a whole drive, other times it stays off. There's no noticeable change in braking performance when the light is on, but the pulsation is still present regardless.

Could these two issues be related? I'm thinking warped rotors for the pulsation, but the ABS light has me stumped. Any ideas on what I should be looking at? Thanks!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like your 2022 Jeep Cherokee Latitude is experiencing a combination of common brake wear issues and a potential sensor problem. The pulsating brake pedal and the intermittent ABS light are very likely related.

Common Causes:

  1. Warped Brake Rotors: The most common cause of a pulsating brake pedal is warped or unevenly worn brake rotors. When the brake pads press against an uneven surface, it transmits a vibration or pulsation through the pedal. This is often due to heat buildup and rapid cooling, or improper lug nut torque.
  2. ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Fault: An intermittent ABS light often points to an issue with one of the wheel speed sensors. These sensors monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and send data to the ABS control module. If a sensor is dirty, damaged, or has a faulty wiring connection, it can send inconsistent signals, triggering the ABS light.
  3. Damaged ABS Tone Ring: Less common, but the magnetic tone ring (or reluctor ring) that the wheel speed sensor reads can become damaged or corroded, leading to incorrect readings.
  4. Brake Pad Wear: While less likely to cause pulsation directly, severely worn brake pads can sometimes contribute to uneven rotor wear or other braking issues.

When to See a Shop:

Both pulsating brakes and an illuminated ABS light are indicators that your braking system needs immediate attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to:

  • Reduced braking effectiveness.
  • Increased stopping distances.
  • Complete failure of the ABS system when you need it most.
  • Accelerated wear on other brake components.

What a Shop Will Do:

  1. Diagnostic Scan: The first step will be to connect an OBD-II scanner to read any stored ABS-related trouble codes. Common codes for wheel speed sensor issues include:
    • C0031 - C0035: (Left Front, Right Front, Left Rear, Right Rear) Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction.
    • C0040 - C0045: (Left Front, Right Front, Left Rear, Right Rear) Wheel Speed Sensor Signal Performance.
  2. Brake System Inspection: A thorough visual inspection of all brake components, including:
    • Rotor Runout: Measuring the flatness of the rotors to confirm warping.
    • Pad Thickness: Checking the wear level of the brake pads.
    • Caliper Function: Ensuring calipers are not seized and are applying even pressure.
  3. Wheel Speed Sensor Check: Inspecting the wheel speed sensors and their wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. They may also test the sensor's output.
  4. Tone Ring Inspection: If a sensor issue is suspected, the tone ring will be inspected for damage or debris.

Based on the symptoms, it's highly probable you'll need new rotors and pads, and potentially a replacement wheel speed sensor.

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