Jeep Grand Cherokee L Speedometer Isn't Working

Common Causes of Speedometer Malfunctions in Your Jeep Grand Cherokee L and How to Fix Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
35% chance it's the
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
0%
28% chance it's the
Speedometer
0%
23% chance it's the
Electrical Issue
0%
14% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Jeep Grand Cherokee L speedometer isn't working are the vehicle speed sensor (VSS), a faulty speedometer, or an electrical issue.
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS): A faulty vehicle speed sensor can result in inaccurate speed readings and erratic transmission shifting.
  • Speedometer: A faulty speed sensor or a broken connection in the speedometer circuit can result in inaccurate speed readings.
  • Electrical Issue: A blown fuse or a short circuit in the wiring can cause various electrical issues in the vehicle's systems.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

Troubleshooting Speedometer Issues in a Jeep Grand Cherokee L

When troubleshooting speedometer issues in your Jeep Grand Cherokee L, begin by checking for any warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the check engine light, as this can indicate a malfunctioning speed sensor. Next, inspect the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), which is often a primary suspect in speedometer failures. If the VSS appears to be functioning correctly, turn your attention to the electrical components, as loose connections or damaged wiring can disrupt the speedometer's operation. If the speedometer and odometer are both non-functional while other instruments work, the problem may lie within the instrument cluster itself. Additionally, consider examining the wheel speed sensors, as replacing faulty ones can sometimes resolve the issue. If you encounter intermittent jumping of the speedometer needle, especially when the engine is cold, this may signal deeper mechanical or electrical problems that require further investigation. Lastly, a simple reset of the speedometer by holding down the reset button while turning the ignition to the on position can sometimes recalibrate the system. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix speedometer issues in your vehicle.

What to Check When the Speedometer Isn't Working in a Jeep Grand Cherokee L?

When your speedometer isn't functioning in a Jeep Grand Cherokee L, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS), as this component is frequently responsible for speedometer failures. If the VSS appears to be in good condition, turn your attention to potential electrical issues; inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion that could disrupt the signal. Additionally, the speedometer unit itself may be faulty, so checking for any defects in the speedometer is a prudent step. Don't overlook the importance of the Check Engine Light; if it's illuminated, it may indicate underlying issues that could affect the speedometer's performance. Utilizing a diagnostic tool to check for trouble codes, particularly P0500, can provide further insights into the problem. Lastly, if you've recently experienced battery issues, a simple reset of the speedometer by holding down the reset button while turning the key to the on position might resolve the malfunction. By methodically addressing these common problems, you can effectively diagnose and potentially fix the speedometer issue in your Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

Why is the Speedometer Not Working in a Jeep Grand Cherokee L?

When the speedometer in your Jeep Grand Cherokee L stops functioning, it’s crucial to address the issue without delay. A malfunctioning speedometer can not only hinder your ability to monitor your speed accurately, leading to potential traffic violations, but it can also indicate underlying problems that may affect your vehicle's overall performance. Common culprits include a faulty vehicle speed sensor (VSS), which can disrupt the speedometer's readings, or issues with the speedometer itself. Additionally, electrical problems, such as exposed wiring, can exacerbate the situation. If you notice that the speedometer is unresponsive while other dashboard components are operational, this could signal a specific fault that requires immediate attention. In some cases, a simple reset of the speedometer may resolve the issue, especially after a battery disconnection. However, if the speedometer and tachometer are both non-functional while the odometer remains active, it’s essential to investigate further. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to more significant repairs down the line, making it imperative to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee L Speedometer Not Working | RepairPal