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2018 Grand Cherokee ABS/Traction Control Lights & Erratic Braking

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 1:26 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

Hey everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating issue with my 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. A few weeks ago, the ABS and Traction Control warning lights both illuminated on my dash. They come on intermittently, but lately, they've been staying on more often than not.

When the lights are on, I've noticed my braking feels a bit off. Sometimes, it feels like the ABS is engaging at very low speeds or when I'm just lightly pressing the pedal, even on dry pavement. It's almost like a slight grinding or pulsing sensation that shouldn't be there.

I've checked the brake fluid, and it seems fine. I'm worried it might be something serious with the braking system or a sensor. Has anyone experienced this with their Grand Cherokee, especially around the 2018 model year? Any ideas on what might be causing this or what I should check first?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 1:26 PM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is experiencing a common issue related to the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control System (TCS). These systems are highly integrated, so a fault in one often triggers warnings for both. The erratic braking sensation you describe, especially the low-speed ABS engagement, strongly suggests a problem with a wheel speed sensor.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and steps:

  1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor: This is the most common culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If a sensor fails, sends incorrect data, or has a damaged wire, the ABS module can't accurately determine wheel speed, leading to false ABS activation and system warnings. Common OBD-II codes for this issue include C0031 (Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor), C0034 (Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor), C0037 (Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor), and C0040 (Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor).
  2. Damaged Wiring or Connector: The wiring harness leading to the wheel speed sensors can get damaged by road debris, corrosion, or even rodent activity. A loose or corroded connector can also interrupt the signal.
  3. Contaminated Sensor or Tone Ring: Sometimes, dirt, rust, or metal shavings can accumulate on the sensor or the tone ring (a toothed ring the sensor reads), interfering with its ability to get an accurate reading.
  4. ABS Module Failure: While less common, the ABS control module itself can fail. This is usually a more expensive repair.

What to do:

  1. Scan for Codes: Your first step should be to get an OBD-II scanner and check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Even if the lights are off, pending or history codes might be stored. This will pinpoint which wheel speed sensor (or other component) is reporting an issue.
  2. Visual Inspection: Once you have a code, visually inspect the identified wheel speed sensor and its wiring. Look for obvious damage, fraying, or loose connections. Check for any debris around the sensor and tone ring.
  3. Clean the Sensor: If accessible, carefully clean the sensor head and the tone ring with a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft brush. Sometimes, this can resolve the issue.

When to see a shop:

If scanning for codes doesn't provide a clear answer, or if you're not comfortable performing the visual inspection and cleaning yourself, it's best to take your Jeep to a qualified mechanic. They have specialized diagnostic tools to test wheel speed sensor signals and can accurately diagnose whether the issue is a sensor, wiring, or the ABS module itself. Driving with a compromised braking system, even if it's just the ABS/TCS, can be unsafe.

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