Jeeps’ ABS and Traction Control systems are two of the most crucial safety measures. The warning lights for these systems will illuminate to help you avoid problems while driving and but learning the exact reasons why Jeep ABS and Traction Control lights on will be more helpful.
The Jeep ABS and Traction Control light sometimes switch on to indicate a fault in the anti-lock braking system or the traction control system. Various issues, such as low brake fluid levels, a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor, or a broken ABS module, could cause this.
Read on to explore why Jeep ABS and Traction Control lights are on and how to diagnose and fix them.
What Is The ABS, And Why Is It Important?
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a safety feature to prevent the wheels on your Jeep from locking up during hard braking. When the wheels lock up, they can skid and lose traction, leading to a loss of control and potentially even a crash.
The ABS uses sensors to monitor the speed of the wheels and automatically pulses the brakes to prevent them from locking up. This allows you to maintain vehicle control and steer around obstacles while braking hard.
What Is The Traction Control System, And Why Is It Important?
The TCS (traction control system) is another safety feature to help your Jeep maintain traction on slippery surfaces.
The TCS uses sensors to monitor the speed of the wheels and apply the brakes to individual wheels as needed to maintain traction and prevent the Jeep from skidding.
This is especially important when driving on wet, icy, or loose surfaces, with a higher risk of losing control.
Why Jeep ABS and Traction Control Lights On
Here are some of the most common reasons why these systems will illuminate on your dashboard.
1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor
A defective wheel speed sensor might cause the dashboard’s ABS and Traction Control lights to glow. The wheel speed sensors measure the speed of the Jeep’s wheels and communicate the information to the ABS module.
The ABS and Traction Control systems will only function effectively if the sensors work correctly.
2. Low Fluid Levels
Low brake fluid levels can also turn on the ABS and traction control lights. Low brake fluid levels can cause the brake system to malfunction, causing the ABS and traction control systems to fail.
3. Fuse Blown
If the ABS warning light on your car activates, it could be due to a blown fuse or a broken wire connecting the controller to the system sensors. If a fuse blows, the powertrain control module (PCM) will detect the signal and illuminate the check engine and ABS lights to alert you to the problem.
4. Faulty Wiring
Faulty wiring might also turn on the ABS and traction control lights. This is because the wire connecting the various components of the ABS and traction control systems can become damaged or corrupted over time, causing the systems to malfunction.
5. Failed Relay
The ABS and traction control systems use relays to transfer electricity to the various components. The ABS and traction control lights will illuminate if one of these relays fails.
6. ABS Module Failure
A faulty ABS module can also cause the ABS and Traction Control lights on the dashboard to illuminate. The ABS module is in charge of managing the ABS and traction control systems.
If the module is not functioning correctly, the ABS and Traction Control systems will not function properly.
7. Damaged or Worn Parts
Over time, the various components of the ABS and traction control systems can get damaged or worn, causing the systems to malfunction and the lights to illuminate. This includes things like worn brake pads, rotors, and sensors.
How To Diagnose ABS And Traction Control Lights
The first step to addressing and fixing the ABS and traction control lights is to diagnose the problem. You can do this through a diagnostic scan tool.
You can connect the scan tool to the Jeep’s onboard diagnostic system and read the codes stored in the system. Then use the codes to determine the cause of the ABS and traction control lights.
Step 1: Check The Fuse Box
Checking the fuse box is the first step in diagnosing ABS and Traction Control lights. This can be accomplished using a multimeter or removing the relevant fuse with a puller.
Step 2: Check The Wiring
You should check the wiring of the ABS and traction control systems next. This involves checking for any loose connections or damaged or corroded wires.
Step 3: Check The Sensors
Inspect the ABS and traction control system sensors. Checking the wheel speed sensors, brake pressure sensors, and other relevant components is part of this process.
Fixing the ABS And Traction Control Lights
Once you’ve identified the cause of the problem, you can then start to fix it.
1. Replacing The Fuse
If you found the fuse to be the source of the illuminating ABS and Traction Control lights, it should be replaced.
2. Repairing The Wiring
If any of the wirings caused the ABS and Traction Control lights to turn ON, this might entail replacing damaged or corroded wires. If fixing the loose connections is possible, do it.
3. Testing The Wheel Speed Sensor
If the diagnostic scan tool reveals that the wheel speed sensor is the source of the ABS and Traction Control lights turning on, a certified technician should test it.
While the Jeep is in motion, the technician will use a multimeter to examine the sensor’s voltage output. The wheel speed sensor should be replaced if the output is less than predicted.
4. Replacing The ABS And Traction Control Module
If the ABS or Traction Control module malfunctioning is the source of the illumination of the ABS and traction control lights, it can be replaced. The faulty module should be unplugged from the Jeep’s electrical system before being replaced.
The new module must be programmed to the Jeep’s specs to function effectively.
Resetting The System
After making the necessary repairs, you should reset the ABS and Traction Control systems. This is accomplished by unplugging the battery for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. The system will be reset, and the ABS and Traction Control lights should no longer illuminate.
FAQs
Here are some related questions answered about the ABS and Traction Control lighting turning on.
What is the cost of repairing the Traction Control and ABS?
It is based on the problems with your Jeep’s ABS and Traction Control system. If the problem is caused by bad wiring and a malfunctioning switchboard, you should be able to address it on your own and not need the assistance of a technician.
If the entire traction system fails, you may need anywhere from $200 to $400, not including the repair cost.
Is it safe to drive with the traction and ABS lights on?
Driving a car with illuminated anti-lock brakes and traction control lights is unsafe. However, because those components are directly tied to the brake system, you must use caution when working with them.
As a result, it is in your best interest to solve the problem before driving the car again, as it will impact the entire brake system, resulting in an expensive repair.
Conclusion
The common reasons why Jeep ABS and Traction Control lights on include a faulty wheel speed sensor, insufficient brake fluid, or a faulty ABS module.
To diagnose the problem, you’ll need to utilize a diagnostic scanner to read the fault codes recorded on the Jeep’s computer. After you’ve determined the source of the problem, you can fix it.
Don’t drive the car if you notice the ABS and traction warning light is on. Just fix the issues, and drive again.