The anti-lock brake system, also known as ABS, senses the speed of each wheel and notes when one locks up, thus relieving the hydraulic pressure in that wheel to avoid a skid. The wheel speed sensor, attached to each wheel on your 2001 to 2005 Dodge Durango, sends the signal to the ABS system. A malfunctioning wheel speed sensor means that your ABS will likely fail, so it's important to replace that sensor immediately.
Park your Dodge Durango on a level surface, activate the emergency brake and place blocks behind the back tires for safety. Disconnect the negative battery cable with a terminal puller.
2
Raise the vehicle on the side of the wheel speed sensor's location. Remove the wheel and tire assemblies.
3
Disconnect the speed sensor electrical connections from the wiring harness.
4
Check to see if your vehicle has traction control. For Durango's without traction control, unscrew the mounting nut and remove the brake line from the sensor stud.
5
Unscrew the speed sensor mounting nut. For vehicles with traction control, remove the sensor from the brake caliper adapter. For vehicles without traction control, remove the sensor and sensor shield from the differential housing.
6
Reverse the removal process to install the new wheel speed sensor. If you removed the o-ring and spacer from the sensor, replace those first. Torque the sensor mounting nut to 200 inch pounds (24 Nm).
7
Lower the vehicle safely and reconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to your owner's manual to perform an ABS system check to confirm that you installed the sensor properly.
Tips & Warnings
For front wheel speed sensors, check the o-ring and spacer for damage and replace if necessary.
Apply an anti-corrosive sealant to the wheel speed sensor prior to installation to prevent galvanic corrosion.
You must install the wheel speed sensor properly to ensure your safety. Be sure that you install, route and clip all cables correctly and in the proper locations.
Never remove the speed sensor with pliers. If corrosion causes the sensor to seize to the vehicle, use a small mallet and punch to remove it by lightly tapping the edge of the sensor ear and rocking the sensor from side to side until it comes loose.
The disconnection of the negative battery cable may interfere with the on board computer function. Upon reconnection, the computer may need to go through a relearning process.
Failure to install a wheel speed sensor properly, such as contact with moving parts or stretched sensor cables, can result in ABS failure and threaten your safety. If in doubt, consult a mechanic for correct installation. Don't hammer or bang the new wheel speed sensor into the sensor housing. You must push it in by hand.
