ABS Light ON? Here’s How to Turn It OFF on Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wranglers are highly sought-after vehicles renowned for their robustness, reliability, and off-road capability. As part of their standard safety features, Jeep Wranglers come equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that is designed to help with stopping power and preventing skidding. However, when the ABS light illuminates the dashboard, it can be a sign of trouble, and it is essential to resolve the issue quickly.

To turn off the ABS light on a Jeep Wrangler, use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the underlying issue. A faulty wheel speed sensor is often the cause. If the OBD-II scanner can’t diagnose the root cause, you can try resetting the ABS light by disconnecting the battery.

In this article, I will discuss how you can get your Jeep Wrangler’s ABS light turned off in no time. So, stay along!

Functioning of ABS System in Jeep Wrangler:

The ABS in a Jeep Wrangler helps to prevent the wheels on the vehicle from locking up during heavy braking. This can help the driver maintain vehicle control and avoid skidding or sliding on the road.

Here’s how it works:

• Sensors are located at each wheel to monitor wheel speed.
  
• When the ABS is activated, it rapidly pumps the brakes to prevent the wheels from locking up.
  
• The ABS can be activated when the driver applies heavy pressure to the brakes or when the system detects that the wheels are about to lock up.
  
• The ABS allows the driver to continue steering the vehicle while braking, which can be especially useful in emergencies.
  
• The ABS can be identified by a warning light on the dashboard and by a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal during heavy braking.

What Happens If the Jeep Wrangler ABS Light Is Turned ON?

If the ABS light on your Jeep Wrangler turns on, it means there's a problem with your Jeep's ABS. The light may be yellow, amber, or orange. It gets turned on for a short period (a few milliseconds) every time you start your car as part of a system check, and if it stays on while you're driving, it means something is wrong.

The ABS light will stay on when a problem is detected in the ABS system. The leading cause of this is usually a faulty wheel-speed sensor or ABS control module.

The wheel-speed sensor monitors the speed of the wheels, and the ABS control module manages the system.

If you’re experiencing an ABS light issue, the best thing to do is to take your Jeep Wrangler to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will inspect the ABS and diagnose the problem.

Typical Reasons Why ABS Light is On in Jeep Wrangler:

Following are the three typical triggers that will turn on the light:

1. Faulty ABS Module:

One of the reasons for an ABS light to come on in a Jeep Wrangler is a faulty ABS module. The Jeep ABS control module is a computer-controlled (microcontroller) program that receives data from the ABS sensors and uses it to control the braking system.

The module acts as the brain of the ABS, and it is integrated into the brake lines to help regulate the pressure applied when you press the brake pedal.

In some cases, the ABS module could fail, which would cause the ABS light to come on. Typically, if this is the case, you will need to have the module replaced.

2. Low Level of ABS Fluid:

One common reason the ABS light turns on is when the ABS fluid level is too low. The ABS fluid level must be consistently at the right level as the brake system uses a hydraulic medium to press the brake pads and bring the wheels to a stop.

If the fluid level falls below the recommended level, likely, the ABS will not function as it should, and the ABS light will be illuminated.

There are several causes of low fluid levels, including leakage or slow evaporation. If you suspect that the ABS fluid level is low, it is essential to check it as soon as possible.

You can access the fluid level by checking the reservoir under the hood. If the fluid level is low, you will need to top it off with the correct type of fluid recommended for your specific model of Jeep Wrangler.

3. Wheel Speed Sensor Malfunction:

One of the most common causes of an ABS light on in a Jeep Wrangler is damaged wheel speed sensors. The Wrangler has ABS sensors on each wheel hub that measure the speed of each wheel and send the information to the ABS control unit. The ABS light will turn on if a sensor malfunction and sends inaccurate or no speed information.

The wheel speed sensors on a Jeep Wrangler are exposed to harsh conditions due to their proximity to the wheels. This makes them more prone to damage and a potential cause of the ABS warning light.

Diagnosing the Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors:

It is not usually possible to identify a faulty ABS sensor in a Wrangler by physical inspection. However, with the help of an OBDII scanner in your vehicle and reading the error codes, you can diagnose the exact faulty ABS speed sensor. This will make it easier to determine which sensor is affected.

Once the faulty sensor has been identified, it must be replaced to resolve the issue with the ABS. Make sure the code reader you are using is compatible with your vehicle’s ABS to get an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, damaged wheel speed sensors are one of the leading causes of ABS warning lights in Jeep Wranglers.

If you experience this issue, get your vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem correctly.

4. ABS Module is Turned OFF:

One of the most common reasons for a Jeep Wrangler ABS light to be on is that the ABS has been deactivated/turned OFF.

When the ABS is deactivated, the ABS light will show you that the feature is not active. This can be done unintentionally if you accidentally press the ESP_OFF (PATA) switch.

In such a scenario, there is nothing wrong with the ABS sensors or module, and you need to turn off your ESP_OFF switch after locating it (by consulting the owner’s manual).

5. Blown Fuse:

A blown fuse can cause the ABS to cease functioning. The fuse is responsible for supplying power to the ABS, and if it’s blown, the system won’t be able to operate. 

• STEP 1: The first step is to find out if you have a blown fuse. You need to check the fuse box cover or the owner’s manual of your Wrangler to find the exact location of the fuse for the ABS. 

• STEP 2: If the fuse is blown, you need to replace it.

• STEP 3: Once you’ve replaced the fuse, turn your Jeep Wrangler on and check to see if the ABS light is still on. 

• STEP 4: If it is, you’ll likely need to look at other possible reasons why the ABS isn’t working.

Read Why Are Jeep ABS and Traction Control Lights On? How to Fix for more details.

How to Turn OFF the ABS Light on Jeep Wrangler:

If your Jeep Wrangler has an ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) light on, it’s essential to turn it off. Below I compiled a step-wise guide that helps diagnose the issue and turn off the ABS light.

• Step 1: Find the OBD2 scanner connector on the left side of the instrument panel. Once you have located it, plug it into the diagnostic port.

• Step 2: Using the OBD2 scanner, read any codes that may come up. For example, you may see a code such as ‘C102A’. This code will tell you what parts may be causing your ABS light to stay on. C102A indicates an issue with the Left Rear Wheel Sensor.

• Step 3: Take the Jeep out for a drive, and check to see if any parts are stuck at 0 or not showing any readings. If this is the case, you may need to take it to a professional mechanic to get it fixed.

• Step 4: After the issue is fixed, you should be able to turn off the ABS light. To do this, turn the key to the “on” position and press the “check engine” button. This should reset the system and turn off the ABS light.

These steps should help you diagnose the issue and turn off the ABS light on your Jeep Wrangler. Contact a professional mechanic for assistance if you cannot get the ABS light turned off.

Turning OFF ABS Light By Battery Disconnection:

To turn off the ABS light on a Jeep Wrangler, follow these steps:

• STEP 1: Disconnect the battery- remove the cable from the negative terminal first, then from the positive terminal.
  
• STEP 2: Press the horn button several times and turn on the headlights to drain out residual electricity.
  
• STEP 3: Wait for around 15 minutes.
  
• STEP 4: Reconnect the battery in reverse order – the positive cable first, then the negative cable.

This will reset the ABS light.

Can You Drive the Jeep with the ABS Light ON?

If the ABS warning light is on, you can still drive the Jeep with the ABS light, as it does not impact normal braking. However, it is not recommended as the ABS helps control the wheel locks, and it can be dangerous to be driving without it.

This is because the ABS is not functioning correctly, the vehicle may not be smooth on slippery surfaces, and the wheels can get locked. It is an emergency if both the ABS light and brake system light come on, and you should stop driving the Jeep immediately.

Jeep Wrangler ABS Repair Cost:

The estimated cost of a Jeep Wrangler ABS control module replacement ranges from $550 to $1200. In addition, labor costs are between $120 and $150, while parts are estimated at $435.

The cost of an ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement can range from $180 to $500 depending on the model of the car and the labor charges in the area.

Final Thought:

Understanding the cause of the ABS light being on in a Jeep Wrangler is essential. With the proper knowledge and tools, you can diagnose the issue and take the necessary steps to turn off the light.

If you are not experienced in this area, it is best to seek the help of a professional mechanic. You can get your Jeep Wrangler back on the road safely and quickly through diagnostic tools and expert advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How can a person turn off the ABS light on the Jeep?

You can reset the ABS dashboard warning light by disconnecting the positive cable of your Jeep battery. Next, hold the pedal of the brake to drain the vehicle’s electrical system. It will result in resetting the central computer of the car. At last, plug the cable back into its place to restore the power.

Why does the ABS light turn on in the Jeep Wrangler?

When the self-diagnostic cycle is failed in the Jeep, the ABS light of the Jeep turns on. However, the vehicle cannot provide safety features, including the proper brake and anti-locking system signaling during light illumination.

Can I drive the Jeep when the ABS lights are on?

A person can drive the Jeep easily when the ABS lights are turned on. ABS light does not have any impact on the normal functioning of the brake. Still, it is not recommended to do such an act as the ABS helps control the stopping, and it could be dangerous to drive with it.

Why won't the ABS light turn off easily?

There are four reasons why ABS lights are not turned off. These reasons include the following:

• Malfunctioned ABS module
  
• Low levels of fluid in the reservoir
  
• Broken sensors of the wheel
  
• Off-system of vehicle

How can a person turn off the anti-locking ABS in Jeep?

The anti-lock feature in ABS can be turned off by removing the wheel speed sensor. It will disable the ABS and is helpful for stability control.

What conditions are seen when the ABS lights remain on longer than usual?

The ABS lights that are yellow, amber, and orange are often seen in one position when the vehicle is started. When ABS lights are turned on, it means there is an issue with the system, and it is shut down.

What happens when a person keeps on driving the Jeep with ABS lights?

The brakes still work in the Jeep when the ABS lights are turned on and are present in the vehicle. ABS lights do not prevent the wheels from locking up in an emergency.

Does the ABS light turn off when the ABS fuse is removed?

No, the ABS lights still turn on when the ABS fuse is removed. This is because the brakes function regularly as they function in a non-ABS Jeep.