Dodge Journey ABS Light and Traction Control Light On?

Seeing warning lights on your dashboard is never a comforting experience—especially when it’s your ABS and traction control lights lighting up together. If you’re driving a Dodge Journey and both these lights suddenly come on, you might be wondering: Is my vehicle still safe to drive? What’s causing this? Do I need immediate repairs?

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the meaning, causes, risks, and solutions for when the ABS and traction control lights come on in your Dodge Journey. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a car owner with little technical knowledge, this article will help you understand the issue and act wisely.

 

What Do ABS and Traction Control Lights Mean?

The ABS light refers to your car’s Anti-lock Braking System, while the traction control light typically refers to the TCS (Traction Control System) or ESP (Electronic Stability Program). These are electronic safety systems designed to help you maintain control under extreme driving conditions, such as:

• Emergency braking (ABS)
• Slippery or icy roads (TCS/ESP)

Both systems share vital components like wheel speed sensors and a central control module, which is why it’s common for the lights to appear simultaneously when something goes wrong.

 

 

Why Do These Lights Turn On at the Same Time?

When these lights turn on and stay illuminated, your car is essentially warning you that one or both systems have stopped functioning properly. Common reasons include:

1. Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors

These are mounted near each wheel and constantly monitor wheel rotation. If one sensor stops sending accurate data due to damage or debris, the ABS and traction control systems shut down to prevent incorrect braking or torque adjustments.

2. Damaged Wiring or Connectors

Corroded, pinched, or broken wires can interrupt communication between sensors and the control module. These issues are especially common in areas exposed to road salt or debris.

3. ABS Module Failure

The control module is the brain behind both systems. A software glitch or hardware failure can cause both systems to go offline, triggering both warning lights.

4. Low Brake Fluid or Contaminated Fluid

Although more indirect, if brake fluid levels are low or there’s air in the brake lines, it may affect ABS performance and trip a system alert.

5. Electrical System Issues

Battery-related issues, including low voltage or a failing alternator, can create false warnings or disable electronic safety systems temporarily.

 

Can You Drive With the ABS and Traction Control Lights On?

Yes, you can still drive your vehicle, but there are important limitations and risks:

What Still Works:

Basic braking remains functional.

Your engine and steering are unaffected.

What Stops Working:

ABS will no longer prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking.

Traction control will not intervene during skids or wheel spin.

Stability features like yaw control or cornering assist will be disabled.

In dry weather and calm driving, you may not notice much difference. But in rain, snow, or during sudden stops, you’ll lose critical layers of protection.

 

Symptoms That Often Accompany These Warning Lights

If the issue is serious or persistent, you may notice other warning signs such as:

• Increased stopping distance
• Unusual brake pedal feel (spongy or hard)
• Jerking or pulling during acceleration
• Grinding or clicking noises near the wheels
• Loss of engine power (if traction control limits output)

 

How to Diagnose the Problem at Home

You can do a basic check before heading to a mechanic:

✅ Visual Wheel Area Inspection

Look around each wheel for:

• Mud or snow buildup
• Loose or damaged wires
• Dislodged sensors

✅ Check Brake Fluid

Open the brake fluid reservoir and check if the level is between “Min” and “Max.”

✅ Use an OBD-II Scanner

Plug into your vehicle’s diagnostic port and look for codes like:

• C0035 – Left front wheel speed sensor
• C0265 – ABS module failure
• U0121 – Lost communication with ABS module

Many auto parts stores will do this for free, or you can buy a basic scanner online.

 

 

What Will a Mechanic or Dealership Do?

At a certified service center, technicians will:

• Scan the system for fault codes.
• Perform sensor and wiring tests.
• Check control module function.
• Reset the system after repair.

Repairs might involve sensor replacement, module reprogramming, or cleaning out contaminated components. In newer vehicles, a software update may also resolve intermittent faults.

 

How to Prevent Future ABS and TCS Issues

Taking preventive measures can reduce the likelihood of these lights coming back:

Regularly clean your wheels and wheel wells to remove mud, grime, and salt.

Avoid aggressive driving in wet or icy conditions, which stresses the system.

Don’t ignore small signs—a flickering light, odd brake noise, or warning during startup may indicate early sensor issues.

Inspect your vehicle after off-road use or snow driving, where wires and sensors are easily disturbed.

Also, when replacing parts, always go for OEM components to ensure proper fit and signal communication.

 

Why It’s Worth Fixing Promptly

Some drivers ignore these lights for weeks or months, thinking the car still drives “normally.” But here’s why fixing the issue early matters:

Safety first: ABS and TCS systems are designed to protect you and your passengers during dangerous situations.

Avoid cascading issues: A simple sensor failure, if left unresolved, can lead to damaged modules or unbalanced braking.

Stay compliant: Some jurisdictions may not pass vehicles for inspection with ABS or TCS lights on.

By resolving the issue early, you maintain your Dodge Journey’s safety, reliability, and long-term value.

 

 

Conclusion: Stay Calm, Get It Checked

If the ABS and traction control lights are on in your Dodge Journey, take it seriously—but don’t panic. The issue is usually repairable and often involves a relatively simple fix like a sensor or wiring issue.

Take a few minutes to do a basic inspection, use a code scanner if you have one, and schedule a check-up with your mechanic. Your car is trying to keep you safe—listen to what it’s saying.