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2019 Murano ABS and Traction Control Lights On - Intermittent

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Ryan M. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Nissan Murano SL

Hi everyone,

My 2019 Nissan Murano SL, with about 60,000 miles, has an intermittent issue where the ABS and Traction Control (TCS) warning lights come on simultaneously. Sometimes they stay on for a whole drive, other times they'll go off after a few minutes, or even after restarting the car. There's no noticeable change in braking performance or handling when the lights are on.

I haven't pulled any specific codes yet, as my basic scanner doesn't always read ABS codes. I'm wondering if this is a common problem with the Murano or other Nissan models. Could it be a wheel speed sensor, or something more serious like the ABS module itself? I live in an area with some rough roads, so I'm thinking maybe a sensor got knocked around.

Any advice on what to look for or how to diagnose this before I head to the dealership would be great!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:49 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

When both the ABS and Traction Control (TCS) lights illuminate simultaneously, it almost always points to an issue within the Anti-lock Braking System. Since TCS relies on the ABS wheel speed sensors to function, a fault in one system will typically disable both.

Here's a breakdown of common causes and diagnostic steps:

  1. Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS): This is the most frequent culprit. Each wheel has a sensor that monitors its rotational speed. If a sensor is dirty, damaged, or has a faulty wiring harness, it can send incorrect or no data to the ABS module, triggering the lights. The intermittent nature often suggests a loose connection, a partially damaged wire, or a sensor that's just starting to fail.
  2. ABS Tone Ring/Reluctor Ring: These rings are typically mounted on the axle or wheel hub and provide the signal for the WSS. If a tone ring is cracked, corroded, or has debris on it, the WSS will get an inconsistent signal.
  3. Brake Fluid Level: While less common for both lights, extremely low brake fluid can sometimes trigger ABS warnings. Check your brake fluid reservoir to ensure it's at the proper level.
  4. ABS Module/Pump: In rarer cases, the ABS control module itself or the hydraulic pump can fail. This is usually a more expensive repair and often presents with more consistent symptoms or specific diagnostic trouble codes.

What to do:

  • Professional Scan: Your basic OBD-II scanner likely won't read ABS-specific codes. A professional scan tool (available at most repair shops or dealerships) can access the ABS module and retrieve specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that will pinpoint the faulty sensor or component.
  • Visual Inspection: Once you know which wheel is affected (from the DTC), visually inspect the wheel speed sensor and its wiring for any signs of damage, corrosion, or debris.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately, if you notice any change in braking performance or if the issue becomes constant. While the lights being on doesn't always mean your regular brakes are compromised, it does mean the ABS and TCS systems are disabled.
  • If you cannot access ABS-specific codes yourself. A professional diagnosis is crucial to avoid replacing parts unnecessarily. They can also perform live data monitoring of the wheel speed sensors to identify which one is acting up.
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