2002 Dodge Durango Speedometer/ABS Failure

The ABS light came on, and then the speedometer, we noticed, wasn't working.

The check engine light came on a short while later.

I changed the Speed Sensor in the rear differential with a new one from the parts store $24 and cleared the check engine light, which was for the speed sensor.

The speedometer doesn't work and the ABS light is still on.

Everything under the vehicle looks good and clean, no rust/mud etc.

Any other ideas, or a way to reset the system to give her another try?

Go to Advance Auto or similar place, borrow their free-use scan tool, and run the OBDII codes.
Write them down.
Then erase the codes to reset the SES light.
If you get a re-light, repeat procedure to begin narrowing the problem.
Good luck.

Go to Advance Auto or similar place, borrow their free-use scan tool, and run the OBDII codes.
Write them down.
Then erase the codes to reset the SES light.
If you get a re-light, repeat procedure to begin narrowing the problem.
Good luck.


The code scanner cleared the light. After driving a few blocks, still no speedometer, the same VSS code.

The ABS and brake light is on as well.

It's almost as if the ABS system isn't getting power, but with no blown fuses and no ABS relay in either fuse/relay box(inside/outside).

Not saying I can solve this problem, but I am wondering what the codes are saying now?
(BTW, I don't know what VSS means!)

for the VSS check the pig tail conncetor and see if loose corroded or if there are any shorts or wires that the insulation has been worn or frayed about ABS check the abs wheel sensors or the reluctor rings

:banghead: i am having the same problem with my 98 durango help please anyone
The ABS light came on, and then the speedometer, we noticed, wasn't working.

The check engine light came on a short while later.

I changed the Speed Sensor in the rear differential with a new one from the parts store $24 and cleared the check engine light, which was for the speed sensor.

The speedometer doesn't work and the ABS light is still on.

Everything under the vehicle looks good and clean, no rust/mud etc.

Any other ideas, or a way to reset the system to give her another try?

I think your dealing with 2 separate problems.
The speedometer --- Its cracked solder connection on the back side of the dash circuit board. There is information on this site as to how to fix it.

The ABS --- can be one of 3 speed sensors, one in rear, one on each front wheel. Also it is commonly the ABS controller itself.

Replace the VSS on top of the rear end first. Not very expensive, and it will cause speedo probs and abs/brake lite on dash. But I do agree with trying to clean the pigtail.

Hesed - Since you already changed the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) at the rear differential, I tend to agree your problem may be as outlined by benzman.

karsm4 - You need to change the VSS at the rear differential.

i have a 98 durango brake light is on check engine light is on & speedo wont work under 110 kph. over that speed it is accurate and works ok. i think its a sensor, but dont know where to start? any tips

Replace the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) that's on top of the rear differential. Not expensive, very easy.

Both the input and output sensors have to be replaced at same time. Rear differential and input near Transmission. I believe the wheels have some form of sensors as well. Best idea would be to call a dodge dealership or few and get some feed back from different techs... :2cents:

What engine do you have?