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"ABS" and "BRAKE" lights on solid?

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Old Jul 6, 2025 | 03:46 PM
  #11  
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It may also be possible the there is a canbus issue due to a loose connection when the fusebox was moved. the ABM should be the original to that truck and might just be experiencing communication issues. These things do happen when everything is run on communication lines. I had my turn signals only turn on the left signal and my hazard lights turn on the right one on a relatively new dakota (4yo). You can also try to use your obd2 reader to try to communicate with the module or even rewrite the vin to it if it's capable.

This thread is about the abs and brake lights, but also has a different code for low fluid.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...-cylinder.html

This one has the mismatched vin, but doesn't reference codes, but had success using a high end obd2 tool.
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/3rd-gen...atching-2.html

I would start with checking the connections and jiggle the wiring to see if that clears anything. Or maybe even try clearing the codes.

Edit: shortly after I got my 2011 dakota in 2013, I took the fusebox out and when I put it back in, I had the issue of the pcm not comminutaing with the gauge cluster. I could see my speed and rpm, but not the Trans shifter position. This was a simple fix as one of the large connectors at the bottom of the fusebox just needed to be plugged in again.

Edit #2: the codes suggest either an issue with the ABM, or an issue with the PCM. This could mean that the issue is communication between the ABM and PCM.
 

Last edited by Hesselhoff; Jul 6, 2025 at 03:56 PM.
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Old Jul 16, 2025 | 10:29 PM
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Default abs and brake light on - replaced master cylinder

How do you exchange the new reservoir with the old reservoir?
 
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Old Jul 16, 2025 | 10:36 PM
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There are x2 philips screws above the brake line connections on the master cylinder. It should lift off once the screws are out. The fusebox will most likely have to come out to give room to get at it. Rockauto.com has multiple pictured of all the parts, so it's helpful to see everything before you get in there. Also check this link for the factory service manual.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/0xh46mwvxw...nual.ND.SM.pdf

If you go to the section for brakes, it will have step by step instructions for removing major components.

If you have already replaced things, you can just change out the sensor under the reservoir. I think oem sensors run a 10k ohm resistor and replacements use a 1k ohm, so only oem will work.
 

Last edited by Hesselhoff; Jul 16, 2025 at 10:38 PM.
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Old Jul 18, 2025 | 08:09 PM
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The master cylinder was replaced with a master cylinder from another Dodge Dakota. It's an OEM part. I disposed of the original before I knew this was an issue...but didn't think it would be an issue since I was replacing it with an identical unit :-/.

I now need to find an OBD2 Scanner that can Reset VIN Values on my truck! My scanner is not capable of this :-/.
 
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Old Jul 18, 2025 | 08:21 PM
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Originally Posted by AciDDreamZ
I now need to find an OBD2 Scanner that can Reset VIN Values on my truck! My scanner is not capable of this :-/.
That shouldn't happen by just changing the master cylinder, only the ABM.

I would disconnect the battery and try reseating all the connections under the fuse box, then try clearing all the codes. A dealer can rewrite the vin, but that's only if they know how. Some claim that it cannot be done, while others actually know how to use their tools. If it is a connection issue between the ABM and PCM, then they will not be able to fix the codes by rewriting the vin and may still charge you for time. As for diy tools for vin, there are programs you can use with a USB to obd2 cable. That may be a cheaper option than buying a whole new tool.
 
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Old Aug 16, 2025 | 09:28 AM
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Just to update, I reseated all the fuse box connectors, no difference sadly.
 
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Old Aug 16, 2025 | 10:46 AM
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Are you still getting the C codes? Does your PCM actually HAVE the correct VIN programmed into it? (your scanner should tell you the vin the PCM thinks it is.)
 
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