dodge journey abs recall

NOW OPEN – DIRECT CONNECTION BROUGHT TO YOU BY DODGE POWER BROKERS

• Shop Parts & Accessories
• ®</sup>" role="button">Learn About Uconnect ®
• View Owner's Manual
• Pair Your Smartphone
• Purchase EV Charger
• Shop Merchandise
• EXPLORE FAQs
• FIND A DEALER
• SCHEDULE SERVICE

Recall Information

See if your vehicle has been affected.

To find out if your vehicle has any current recalls – or, to get reimbursed for previous recall-related costs – please enter your VIN or sign in to your existing Mopar ® account.

Here's How to Find Your Vin

What is a vin.

A VIN is a Vehicle Identification Number. It is a 17-character alphanumeric identifier or a manufacturer’s serial number. Each character in the VIN number has a significant meaning. Together, they create a number that provides information about the vehicle and its unique history.

Where is the VIN located?

The VIN can be found on the VIN plate located on the driver's side of the dashboard just below the windshield (1). The VIN can also be found on the driver-side doorframe label (2), as well as on documents related to the vehicle's registration, title and insurance.

Don't drive a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep ® , Ram, FIAT® or Alfa Romeo vehicle but need recall information? Visit the CheckToProtect.org website

TAKATA AIRBAG STOP-DRIVE ADVISORY

• Find a Dealer

Whether you want to purchase genuine parts, customize with accessories or get maintenance from a Mopar ® certified technician, you'll find it all at one of our authorized dealers. Simply search below to find one near you.

Choose by Features

Your preferred dealer has been successfully updated.

FCA US LLC regards the safety and security of our customers and their families as paramount. Please see our FAQ list below to learn more about recalls and the precautions we take to keep you safe. If you don't see your concern listed, chat with us and one of our representatives will help answer any questions you may have.

Takata Airbag Inflator Recalls

FCA US is conducting a safety recall of certain vehicles with driver and/or passenger airbag inflators manufactured by Takata Corporation. Enter your VIN to see if your vehicle is currently included in one of these safety recalls, or click Learn More for more information. To schedule an appointment for a FREE Takata airbag inflator recall repair, please call 833-585-0144.

Did you receive a Stop-Drive Advisory notice for your 2003 Dodge Ram Pickup Truck or 2005 – 2010 Chrysler or Dodge brand vehicle? Call 833-585-0144 – or contact your dealer – to discuss the best options for your immediate free repair.

ECODIESEL SETTLEMENT

FCA US LLC is offering an emissions control system software update (the “Approved Emissions Modification” or “AEM”) free of charge for all model year 2014-2016 Ram 1500 and Jeep ® Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L EcoDiesel engines (“Subject Vehicles”). The AEM is intended to ensure that the Subject Vehicles’ emissions are in compliance with the emissions standards to which they were originally certified. There are no hardware changes associated with the AEM. To receive the AEM, you can call the FCA call center at 1-833-280-4748 or contact your preferred authorized dealer to schedule an appointment.

SHOP FOR YOUR NEXT VEHICLE

• Roadside Assistance
• For First Responders
• Chat with Us
• Owner's Apps
• Owners Manual
• Maintenance Schedule
• Warranty Information
• Parts & Accessories Catalogs

For Dealers

• &reg;</sub> Repair Connection">Mopar ® Repair Connection
• &reg;</sub> Dealers">Mopar ® Dealers
• &reg;</sub> CAP">Mopar ® CAP
• DealerCONNECT
• Legal, Safety & Trademarks
• Terms of Use
• Accessibility

Privacy Center

• Privacy Policy
• Manage Your Privacy Choices
• Cookie Settings

SERVICE SCHEDULING MADE EASY

Conveniently book an appointment with your preferred dealer

Did you know creating an account allows us to save vehicle information and preferences so future bookings are even simpler? Register Now

• © 2024 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved.
• Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar, SRT and HEMI are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC.
• ALFA ROMEO and FIAT are registered trademarks of FCA Group Marketing S.p.A., used with permission.
• FCA US LLC strives to ensure that its website is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Should you encounter an issue accessing any content on Mopar.com, please email our Customer Service Team or call 1-800-399-2668, for further assistance or to report a problem. Access to https://fcagroup.my.site.com/Mopar/s/knowledge?language=en_US is subject to FCA US LLC’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Select a vehicle to explore. Sign in (or create an account) to receive access to even more exciting content

Your preferred dealer has been successfully updated.

Thanks for visiting.

You are now leaving the Mopar ® U.S. site and will be logged out of your account.

modal title

One moment please.

Home » Troubleshooting » Dodge Journey ABS light is on – causes and how to reset

Dodge Journey ABS light is on – causes and how to reset

The ABS, short for anti-lock braking system, is a safety feature in Dodge Journey which prevents the wheels from locking up during braking. This makes it possible to maintain steerability and directional stability even when braking hard, allowing the driver to avoid obstacles. If the ABS light illuminates in the instrument cluster of Journey, it means the anti-lock braking system has malfunctioned.

The ABS light comes on in the dashboard of Dodge Journey when one or more of the wheel speed sensors have malfunctioned, brake fluid is too low, the fuse is blown or the relay is bad, tire pressure is low, or if the ABS module has developed a defect.

1. Bad wheel speed sensor

Dodge Journey has an ABS sensor at each wheel hub which measures the speed of the respective wheel and transmits the information to the ABS control unit. If a sensor develops a defect and sends inaccurate or no speed information, the ABS light illuminates in the instrument cluster.

Bad wheel speed sensor is one of the leading causes of ABS warning light in Journey, as they are exposed to harsh conditions due to their close proximity to the wheels.

How to check ABS sensor

It isn’t usually possible to identify the faulty ABS sensor in Journey by physical inspection. The only most reliable method of diagnosing an ABS speed sensor is by connecting an OBDII scanner to your vehicle and reading out the error codes. The error code also makes it easy to determine which sensor is affected. The faulty sensor must be replaced to resolve the issue. Note: Make sure the code reader you are using can read your vehicle’s ABS codes. Not all readers can.

Damaged speed sensor wire, or bad connector

It is possible the sensor is functioning properly in your Journey, but the signal is interrupted due to damaged wire or corroded connector. Before replacing the sensor, the wiring and connectors of the affected sensor should be physically inspected for any signs of damage or corrosion.

Recommended video

2. Low brake fluid

Excessively low level of brake fluid can trigger ABS light in Journey. Check the fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir, the level should sit near the high marking on the reservoir.

Causes of low brake fluid

In case the brake fluid level is low, topping it off should turn off the ABS warning light in Journey. But it is important to further investigate the reason for low brake fluid level. The three common causes of low brake fluid are worn brake pads, worn rotors, and a leak in the system. Check the condition of the brake pads and rotors, also see if there is any sign of fluid leak under your vehicle and on the wheel hubs.

3. Bad ABS pump or control module

The ABS pump, also called Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU), consists of an electronic and a mechanical-hydraulic part. When you brake hard at high speed and the wheels lock, the hydraulic part of the unit actuates the valves to reduce hydraulic pressure to the brake at the affected wheels. A malfunction in the ABS pump can cause the ABS light to illuminate in Journey, and a fault code is stored in the memory. Connect a diagnostic device to your vehicle to read the code.

4. Low tire pressure

Low tire pressure in one of the wheels of Dodge Journey can cause the ABS light to turn on. The diameter of the wheel is reduced when its tire is underinflated, this causes the wheel to spin faster than other wheels in the vehicle. When the speed difference between the wheels is detected by the control module, an ABS fault code is triggered for the speed sensor of the wheel with low tire pressure.

TPMS warning light

5. Blown fuse or bad relay

A blown fuse or bad relay can cause the ABS system to stop functioning. Check the owners manual of your vehicle or the fuse box cover to find the exact location of the fuse for the ABS system. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one with the specified amp rating.

Is it safe to drive with ABS light on?

When the ABS light illuminates in the instrument cluster of Journey, the ABS system is disabled and the braking system acts like older traditional braking system. The braking pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers is undiminished. What this means is, you can brake normally with moderate braking in dry conditions. But in case of wet or snowy conditions, or when braking hard, you may lose steerability of the vehicle. Therefore, when the ABS light is on, drive with extreme caution and fix the issue as soon as possible.

How to reset the ABS light

Fix the issue.

Resetting the ABS light in Journey without solving the underlying issue may not help, as the warning light will turn back on when the system again detects the fault. The light should disappear automatically after fixing the issue. If it doesn’t turn off immediately, driving your vehicle for a few miles should help.

OBDII scanner method

The proper way to reset the ABS light in Journey is by clearing the codes with an OBDII scanner. If the warning light doesn’t turn off automatically after fixing the issue, you will have to do it manually by connecting a diagnostic device and then deleting all the error codes related to the ABS system.

Disconnect the battery

If you don’t have a diagnostic device, it may be possible to reset the ABS light in Journey by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. Remove the cable from the negative terminal of the battery first, then from the positive terminal. With the battery disconnected, press the horn button a few times and turn on the headlights to drain out all the residual electricity from the system. After about 15 minutes, reconnect the battery in reverse order: positive cable first, then negative cable.

Use OBD2 scanner for diagnosis

Since Dodge Journey is equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD), a fault diagnosis can provide initial indications of where the malfunction is located.

To begin troubleshooting, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Journey. The OBDII connector is usually located under the dashboard. With the tool connected, turn on the ignition. Most diagnostic devices then ask for some information about the vehicle. It is important that you enter this 100% correctly, otherwise the result of the search may be inaccurate. In addition to the vehicle make, model, and engine type, you usually also have to type in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Since some OBD codes are manufacturer-specific, the scanner will be able to give you more accurate information if you enter more details about your Journey.

There are many reasons why the ABS light is turned on in your Dodge Journey. To pinpoint the cause, you must use a diagnostic tool and scan for codes. For example, if one of the speed sensors has failed, the scanner will tell you exactly which wheel sensor is causing the problem.

In any case, it is advisable for laypersons to visit a workshop. A professional mechanic can swiftly diagnose the ABS issue for you.

3 thoughts on “ Dodge Journey ABS light is on – causes and how to reset ”

I have a 2013 Journey in Australia. I have the ABS, brake and and traction control lights on whenever the car is ‘on’. Cruise control also does not work. I took it to two shops and they both ran their scanners and said the ABS module need to be replaced. I went to a wrecker and they had four units available but asked for a photograph of the label on my unit. When I gave it to them, they said theirs were not compatible with my car as the unit had to be ‘matched’. I have no idea what that means and buying a replacement here is horrendously expensive. I’d be most grateful for any advice you could impart. Thanks muchly Charlton 🙂

Buying used ABS module is tricky, it has to be matched, programmed and calibrated. Sometimes even if you think it its a match, it isn’t.

Unfortunately the cost of a new one is prohibitive for my budget. 😭

• Wireless Apple CarPlay on Ram 1500, how to connect
• Audi A6 auto windows not working, how to reset
• Chrysler Grand Voyager AC blower motor not working – causes and diagnosis
• Ford Puma window bounce back when closing – causes and how to fix it
• Ferrari 812 Superfast AC not blowing hard enough – weak airflow causes
• Android Auto on Jaguar F-TYPE, how to connect
• Mitsubishi Mirage G4 makes clicking noise and won’t start – causes and how to fix it
• Nissan Almera uneven tire wear causes
• Lexus LC AC blowing hot air – causes and how to fix it
• Nissan Titan key fob not working – causes and how to fix it
• Drive Control Fault Service Required warning in Ford
• Audi Q7 steering wheel vibration causes and diagnosis
• Lincoln MKT battery light is on – causes and how to reset
• Ferrari 296 GTB ABS light is on – causes and how to reset
• Audi A7 AC blowing hot air – causes and how to fix it
• Ram 4500 Heavy Duty AC not cooling – causes and diagnosis
• Mitsubishi Delica bad gas mileage causes and how to improve it
• Acura CL heater not working – causes and diagnosis
• Lexus LX battery light is on – causes and how to reset
• Chevy Cruze horn not working – causes and how to fix it

Dodge Journey: ABS Light Meaning, Diagnosis, + How to Fix

Your Dodge Journey’s ABS Light comes on when it fails a self-diagnostic cycle.  When on, it indicates that your vehicle does not have Anti-Lock brakes and the safety they provide.

Your Journey’s ABS system uses a system of sensors to determine wheel speed when braking.  If one of the wheels starts to lock up, it’ll apply the maximum amount of brake to that wheel to keep it from sliding.

Not all scanners pick up ABS codes. A scanner that can read them is vital to diagnosing why your Dodge Journey’s ABS light is on.

Dodge Journey ABS Light On Causes

A good code scanner will often tell you which part of the ABS system failed.  Not every OBDII scanner will give up this information.  A good one will.  Most auto parts stores will have a free scanning service they would gladly let you utilize.

Here are the five most common reasons the ABS Dodge Journey’s ABS light comes on:

1.  Wheel Speed Sensor

A bad wheel speed sensor is the most common reason the ABS light comes on.

There is a wheel speed sensor on each of your Dodge Journey’s hubs. Wheel speed sensors monitor the rotational speed of each wheel and send it back to the ABS module.  

If one of the wheels is moving slower than the others, the ABS module recognizes that it is about to lock up.  It reduces brake pressure on that particular wheel to keep it from doing so.

When the wheel speed sensor no longer sends a signal to your Journey’s ABS system (or the voltage value is out of range), the ABS light will be activated.

Your Journey’s stability assist shouldn’t be working if there’s a wheel speed sensor problem.

2.  ABS Module or Pump

The only sign of an ABS module problem should be a trouble code .

The ABS module controls the antilock brake system. If it becomes damaged and can no longer control all four brakes, the ABS light will activate.

The ABS pump can reduce the brake pressure at each wheel, which keeps them from locking up.

Typically, corrosion is the most common reason why the ABS module fails.

3.  Low Brake Fluid

The brake warning light should also be on.  There may be a squishy pedal.

Start here if your brake warning light is on. It’s not as simple as pouring more fluid in. You’ll need to determine how the fluid got out and repair the leak.

If the fluid reservoir level is too low to keep pressure in the ABS lines, the ABS light will come on.  Without the proper pressure, the ABS system will no longer be able to activate physically. 

4. Low Tire Pressure

Appears with the low tire pressure light.

Extremely low tire pressure can cause your Journey’s ABS light to come on. When the tire pressure gets low, it effectively reduces the diameter of the wheel and tire combination. Inflating the tires can get you back on the road.

5. ABS Fuse

If the fuse/relay to the ABS module has blown, the ABS light will activate. To find its location, you’ll need to reference the owner’s manual for your Journey’s model year and engine combination.

ABS Light on Fix

If the ABS light is on, the PCM will have a related code stored in its memory.  That’s the starting point for diagnosing an ABS light in the Dodge Journey.

Scan Your Journey for Brake System Codes

Brake system trouble codes will tell you what part of the brake system needs to be addressed. Here are some of the most common ones.

• C0128- Low Brake Fluid (Circuit Low)
• C0035, C0040, C0041, C0045 – Wheel Speed Circuit Malfunction (each code represents a specific wheel).
• C0290-292 – Communications lost with the PCM or BCM

Here’s a list of every ABS code .

Common Fixes

The most common fix for an ABS light that is on is to repair a wheel speed sensor, followed closely by low brake fluid .

A code scanner can help speed the diagnosis along, but there is some anecdotal evidence you can use:

• Brake warning light on: The brake fluid reservoir may be low.
• TPMS (tire pressure) light: A tire is so low that the wheel speed sensor on its hub is reporting it’s turning faster than the other wheels.
• Traction control light: It’s likely a wheel speed sensor-related issue if you’re getting a traction control warning.

Is it Safe to Drive Your Journey With the ABS Light On?

Your Journey’s anti-lock braking system is a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up, which keeps you in control of the direction the vehicle is moving during hard braking.

Assuming the brake system warning light isn’t on with the ABS light, you can still drive your Journey. The ABS light is different than the brake warning light itself.  The brake warning light indicates a problem with the physical braking system and that your Journey is unsafe to drive.

Yes, you can drive your Journey with the ABS light on. But is it safe? Unfortunately, it’s not as safe, especially when it’s raining, snowing, or the road surface is loose/uneven .  That’s why we recommend having the ABS system fixed as soon as possible.

Wheels that are turning will slow your Dodge Journey faster than a wheel that locks up.  Skidding tires will get a flat spot quickly, which can be inconvenient and dangerous.  

ABS also allows you to steer your vehicle while slowing down and has been around for so long that many drivers have never driven a vehicle without it.

It is not advisable to ignore your Dodge Journey’s ABS light.  Most of the time, the wheel speed sensors are going to be what triggers it.  If there is anything you would like to add, please leave a comment below.  Good luck!

CarComplaints.com : Car complaints, car problems and defect information

Latest news.

• May 31: Tesla Settles Casey Speckman Wrongful Death Lawsuit
• May 30: Toyota Tundra and Lexus LX Recall
• My Account |
• Investigations
• Search Complaints
• Update Carcomplaints
• Add Complaints
• Recent Trends
• Best Vehicles
• Worst Vehicles
• Worst Complaints
• Dodge »
• Journey »
• 2013 »
• Lamborghini
• Mercedes-Benz
• B2500 Cargo Van
• Conversion Van
• Grand Caravan
• Power Ram 50
• Ram 2500 Power Wagon
• Ram Conversion Van
• Ram Van 1500
• Ram Van 2500
• Ram Van 3500

Abs Failure

2013 dodge journey.

• « back to brakes
• Complaints 530
• Crash Tests 2
• Journey Recalls 4

Most Common Solutions:

• not sure (4 reports)

brakes problem

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

Helpful websites

• No one has added a helpful site for this 2013 Journey problem yet. Be the first!

Find a good Dodge mechanic

A free service from CarTalk.com

Search for Car Problems

Example: "Bad Brakes", "Toyota Recall", etc.

2013 Dodge Journey Owner Comments

Feb 10 2023

• Automatic transmission
• 144,700 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

We had the ABS replaced when it had a recall in 2016 even though there were no issues at the time. The ABS went out last month and its now going to cost me $900 to repair! They said its not still covered under the recall. I've been taking it to 2 different local repair shops and both have told me its still coming up under recall. I called the customer service for Dodge and of course they were rude assholes. NEVER BUYING DODGE AGAIN

- Miranda P. , La Porte, IN, US

Jul 25 2018

Journey SXT 3.2L V6

• 68,417 miles

Was having problems with the brakes freezing up well slightly stopping. ABS light keep coming on I found out there was a recall got it fixed at the dealership still having problems with the brakes got new brake pads and rotors and now all they do is speak all the time. Feels like the emergency brake is stuck all the time when I'm driving if I let go of the gas the vehicle slows down very quickly

- Nicole S. , Bernardston, MA, US

Jul 19 2015

• 60,000 miles

My son was driving my car when it pulled to the right causing him to hit a parked car. The air bags never deployed. The car was totaled by my insurance company and even though I brought up the issue that I thought it might have something to due with a recall that was out (which my car wasn't listed in the recall at the time) no one would listen or investigate. The car was sent to auction by my insurance and was sold in Sept 2015. I was out of pocket money due to missing work, paying my deductible and then having to buy another vehicle. When I received the recall notice in the mail, I immediately called the number and was given a case number being told someone would contact me. That has been over 4 months now with no one calling me. My son could have been severely injured in this. As it was it took him almost a month before he would get behind the wheel again.

- eakenr , New Braunfels, TX, US

Aug 23 2014

Journey 4 cyl

• 18,600 miles

Tried to get someone to get my car ( the ABS were locking and causing my car to want to act as if they were locking up when i put on the brakes ) was told they are not there after 5pm on saturday, had to wait till 8am Monday ~ WOW

- alisanikki , jacksonville, fl, US

Search CarComplaints.com for these popular complaint phrases...

DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME: Link must be about this specific problem or it will be deleted — it must be free & helpful, like a video or web page or forum thread about this exact problem. NO FORUM HOMEPAGES. If you have a for-profit service, contact us .

Preview your link:

Not what you are looking for?