C0513 on 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee: Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2016-2017 Jeep CHEROKEE

For the 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee (KL generation), this code is frequently linked to software anomalies. 🎬 Watch: A quick explanation of the C0513 fault code. Manufacturer Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) like #18-013-17 REV. A, #1806620, and #18-032-17 explicitly state that C0513 and other wheel speed sensor codes can be "erroneously set" or are due to "rationality errors." This means that unlike many other vehicles where the sensor itself is the primary failure point, these Cherokees have a documented history of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software misinterpreting sensor data, which requires a dealer-performed update to correct.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• ABS warning light is on
• Traction Control or Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light is on
• "Service 4WD System" message may appear
• Cruise control may be disabled
• Potential for less than desired idle performance
• Brake-hold feature may disengage unexpectedly

Most Likely Causes

1. Faulty Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor 🔴 High Probability Sensors are exposed to harsh conditions (water, road salt, debris, heat) and can fail electronically or become physically damaged. The plastic housing can also become brittle and break upon removal.
   How to confirm: Use a scan tool with live data (like AlfaOBD) to monitor all four wheel speed sensors while driving. The right rear sensor's reading will be erratic, zero, or inconsistent with the others. The sensor can also be tested with a multimeter for resistance.
   Typical fix: Replace the right rear wheel speed sensor. The OEM Mopar part is relatively inexpensive.
   Est. part cost: $19-$45
2. ABS/PCM Software Anomaly 🔴 High Probability Multiple TSBs confirm that "erroneously set" wheel speed sensor codes are a known issue on this platform, often requiring a software update to fix rationality errors. TSB 18-032-17 specifically mentions this group of codes as a reason to reflash the PCM.
   How to confirm: Check with a Jeep dealership for open recalls or applicable TSBs related to ABS module software updates for your vehicle's VIN. A professional scan tool is needed to check the current software version.
   Typical fix: Update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software to the latest version using a wiTECH scan tool. This is typically a dealer-only procedure.
   Est. part cost: $0 if covered by warranty/campaign, otherwise dealer labor rates apply.
3. Damaged Wiring or Connector 🟡 Medium Probability The wiring harness leading to the wheel hub is susceptible to damage from road debris, corrosion, improper routing, or stress from suspension movement.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring from the sensor to the main harness for breaks, chafing, or corrosion in the connector. Check for continuity and shorts using a multimeter. Pay close attention to the harness clips and where the wire bends.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the harness or replace the pigtail connector.
   Est. part cost: $20-$50
4. Damaged or Debris-Covered Tone Ring ⚪ Low Probability The tone ring (or reluctor ring), which the sensor reads, is part of the wheel bearing/hub assembly. Rust buildup, cracks, or metallic debris can disrupt the magnetic signal.
   How to confirm: Remove the wheel speed sensor and visually inspect the tone ring through the mounting hole for damage, rust jacking, or debris. A borescope can be helpful.
   Typical fix: Clean the tone ring if it's just debris. If the ring is damaged, the entire wheel hub/bearing assembly must be replaced.
   Est. part cost: $150-$300

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty ABS Control Module: This is a last resort. If the sensor, wiring, and software are all confirmed to be good, the module itself may have an internal hardware failure. This is an expensive part and should only be replaced after exhaustive diagnosis.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner capable of reading ABS codes (like AlfaOBD or a professional tool) to confirm C0513 is present and check for other related codes.
2. Use the scanner's live data function to monitor the speeds of all four wheels while driving. Confirm that the right rear wheel speed sensor provides an erratic, incorrect, or absent signal compared to the other three.
3. Contact a Jeep dealer with your VIN to check for any applicable TSBs (like #18-013-17, #1806620, #18-032-17) that recommend a software update. This is a critical step for this specific vehicle.
4. Raise and safely support the vehicle. Visually inspect the right rear wheel speed sensor and its wiring harness for any signs of physical damage, chafing, or corrosion at the connector.
5. Remove the 10mm bolt holding the sensor. Gently twist and pull the sensor out. Be prepared for it to break if it's seized.
6. Inspect the sensor for physical damage and the tone ring (inside the hub) for rust, debris, or cracks.
7. If wiring and tone ring appear intact, test the sensor's wiring for continuity and check for shorts to power or ground.
8. If wiring tests good and software updates have been performed or ruled out, the sensor is the most likely culprit. Replace the right rear wheel speed sensor (Mopar Part #68291949AC).
9. After replacement, clear the codes and perform a test drive to ensure the warning lights do not return.
10. If the problem persists after replacing the sensor and performing any necessary software updates, the ABS control module may need to be professionally diagnosed.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor (OEM #68291949AC) — This is the component directly identified by the trouble code and is the most common hardware failure for this issue. It is the same part for left and right rear.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products (SMP), Delphi, Bosch
  OEM price range: $19-$28
  Aftermarket price range: $25-$50

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C0501 — Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Rationality Error, often set with other wheel speed codes due to a software issue.
• C0507 — Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor Rationality Error, often set with other wheel speed codes due to a software issue.
• C050D — Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Rationality Error, often set with other wheel speed codes due to a software issue.
• U1504 — Implausible Message Data Length Received From Steering Angle Sensor, can be set alongside wheel speed sensor codes per TSB 18-013-17 REV. A.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 1806620: Addresses erroneously set wheel speed sensor codes, including C0513.
• 18-032-17: Mentions C0513 as a wheel speed sensor rationality error that can be fixed by reprogramming the PCM.
• 18-013-17 REV. A: Supersedes a previous TSB and confirms C0513 can be erroneously set, recommending a PCM flash.
• 18-122-16: Lists C0513 as a wheel speed sensor rationality error.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• TSB #18-013-17 REV. A specifically lists C0513 as an "Erroneously set Wheel Speed Sensor DTC" that may not turn on the MIL but will be found during a scan, and recommends a PCM software update.
• TSB #18-032-17 groups C0513 with other "Wheel Speed Sensor Rationality Errors" and recommends reprogramming the PCM to resolve them, along with other potential issues like poor idle performance.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Active Wheel Speed Sensor Signal (Oscilloscope) — expected: A clean square wave signal that toggles between two voltage levels when the wheel is spun. The frequency of the wave should increase with wheel speed.. Failure: No signal, a flat/steady voltage, or a noisy/erratic waveform indicates a problem with the sensor, wiring, or tone ring.
• Sensor Resistance (Multimeter) — expected: This test is considered unreliable for the active sensors used on the KL Cherokee. A reading may show very high resistance (Mega-ohms) or an open circuit even on a good sensor.. Failure: Not a definitive test. While comparing the resistance reading to the sensor on the opposite side can be a rough guide, it should not be the primary diagnostic method.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (Dealer Tool): PCM/ABS Software Reflash — This is the required function to perform software updates as mandated by TSBs #18-032-17 and #18-013-17 to correct "erroneously set" C0513 codes.
• wiTECH, AlfaOBD, Appcar DiagFCA: Proxy Alignment (PROXI) — This procedure is mandatory after replacing the ABS control module to synchronize it with the other computers on the vehicle. Failure to do so will result in a flashing odometer and communication errors.
• wiTECH, AlfaOBD, Foxwell NT510 Elite: Automated Bleed / ABS Bleed — Required after replacing the ABS module or any hydraulic brake components to cycle the ABS pump and valves, ensuring all air is purged from the system.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• ABS Module Fuses — In the main fuse box located under the hood on the driver's side.. Before condemning the ABS module, check fuses F53 (ABS Module/Valves) and F93 (ABS Pump Motor) for power supply issues.
• Rear Sensor Connector — The harness-side connector for the rear wheel speed sensor is clipped to the rear subframe/cradle.. This connector is a key point for testing the circuit. It has a red locking tab that must be disengaged before the connector can be separated. The pigtail uses 18 gauge wire.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'G Automotive' (2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk) — Multiple warning lights including Engine, Parking, Traction Control, and ABS. OBD2 scanner read U1412.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The generic U-code did not clearly identify the problem.
  ✅ What actually fixed it A professional shop with a sophisticated scanner pinpointed the fault to the front passenger-side ABS speed sensor. The owner replaced the sensor, which resolved all the warning lights. The process shown is similar for the rear sensor.
• YouTube channel 'Jeepers Creepers' (2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK generation, but demonstrates tool capability)) — ABS, ESP, BAS, and Service 4WD lights.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Visual inspection revealed no obvious faults.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner used the AlfaOBD app with an OBDLink MX+ adapter to read the ABS module directly. The app returned code C100A, specifically identifying the left front wheel speed sensor as faulty. Replacing the sensor based on the app's diagnosis fixed the issue.

OEM Part Supersession History

• 68291949AA, 68291949AB → 68291949AC — Standard part revision and improvement by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: The newest part number, 68291949AC, is the correct replacement for the earlier versions and is used for both left and right rear positions on 2014-2023 models.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2016-2017: There are no significant differences between the 2016 and 2017 model years regarding the ABS system, wheel speed sensors, or the applicability of the TSBs related to code C0513. Both years use the same engines, 9-speed transmission, and have the same known software rationality issues.