2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango ABS Malfunction

On 2024-11-27 10:50:10

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) has announced a significant defect affecting certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles due to a malfunction in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This defect can lead to multiple safety concerns, including:

  • Brake lights incorrectly illuminating.

  • Disabling of the ABS and electronic stability control (ESC) systems.

  • The ability to start the vehicle and shift out of Park without pressing the brake pedal.

These issues pose a serious risk of vehicle rollaway, reduced handling and control, and misleading brake signals, all of which significantly increase the potential for accidents or injuries.

The malfunction is tied to the ABS module, which may falsely detect pressure in the braking system's primary circuit. This error can trigger the following scenarios:

  1. Incorrect Brake Light Activation
    Brake lights may remain on even when the vehicle is not braking. This could confuse other drivers and fail to convey the vehicle operator’s intentions, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision.

  2. Disabled ABS and ESC Systems
    ABS and ESC are critical for maintaining control and stability in challenging driving conditions. Their failure could compromise the vehicle’s handling, especially during sudden maneuvers or on slippery surfaces, further heightening crash risks.

  3. Unintended Vehicle Movement
    The vehicle may be able to start and shift out of Park without the brake pedal being applied. This defect could lead to unintended roll-away incidents, endangering pedestrians, other vehicles, and property.

Indicators of the Malfunction

The issue gives no advance warning before failure. However, once the malfunction occurs, drivers may observe the following signs:

  • Illumination of the ABS, ESC, and red "Brake" warning lights at vehicle startup.

  • Brake lights remaining on even after the vehicle is parked and turned off.

Chrysler is currently developing a remedy for this issue. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification letters starting December 5, 2024. The recall, identified as FCA Recall 94B (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-838), replaces a previous recall, 22V-426, which addressed similar ABS module concerns. Importantly, vehicles that were previously repaired under the earlier recall will need to undergo the new remedy. Until the fix is available, Chrysler advises drivers to remain vigilant and check for the warning indicators mentioned above.

What Owners Should Do

Owners of the affected Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango models are encouraged to:

  1. Monitor for any illuminated warning lights or unusual brake light behavior.

  2. Avoid parking on inclines without applying the emergency brake, as unintended rollaway could occur.

  3. Get their vehicles fixed immediately.

This defect highlights the critical role of ABS and ESC systems in vehicle safety. Disabled stability features or misleading brake signals can have devastating consequences on the road. Chrysler's recall emphasizes the importance of addressing these defects swiftly to minimize risks.