Troubleshooting Issues With 2017 Jeep Cherokee Causing Braking Issues When Being Flat Towed

Question:

Hello, I am pulling a 2017 jeep cherokee trailhawk with a 2006 RoadTrek diesel sprinter. All my jeep equipment came from etrailer and works great. May jeep has the required steering system harness for towing. I have a Roadmaster Sterling towbar and use a brake buddy in the towed vehicle. There is a performance issue that I do not understand. When taking a slow turn, decelerating on a ramp, or sometimes turns in traffic, something seems to trigger the Roadtreks ABS. At first it felt like the jeep was unexpectedly braking but that is not the case. I used to pull a Subaru Forester and never had this problem, but it was about 1000 pounds lighter. I cannot replicate this issue deliberately. My diesel sprinter mechanic is also at a loss. Have you ever encountered this problem and do you have any suggestions?

asked by: Peter H

Expert Reply:

Your 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk was notorious for having a death wobble while towing. The Jeep steering system harness adds power to the electric steering motor to eliminate the wobble. I recommend checking the add on harness as there is a fuse which can go out which would allow it to occur again. You can use a Test Light # PTW2993 to check power on both sides of the fuse as well as going through the switch installed by Jeep.

Finally be sure to check the Charge Line # BB54FR which came with your Brake Buddy to ensure it is charging the battery while you are driving. Since the power steering will drain the battery you need to ensure the battery is getting voltage and charging while you are driving.

expert reply by: Bud M