Wheel Speed Sensor / Rear Left Circuit Short to Ground
There's a short in the rear left wheel speed sensor circuit.
Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.
What it means (plain English)
The rear left wheel speed sensor detects how fast the wheel is turning. If there's a short circuit, the sensor can't send the right information to the vehicle's computer, causing issues with stability and traction control.
What the computer is actually seeing
The ABS module sees an invalid reading from the rear left wheel speed sensor, usually showing a consistent voltage drop.
What a healthy reading looks like
Expect the wheel speed sensor output voltage to be around 0.5V to 1.5V when the wheel is stationary and to rise between 2.0V to 4.5V when the wheel is spinning.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Check the wheel speed sensor connector for corrosion and secure fit. If faulty, repair or replace it. DECISION: If the connector is damaged, replace it; if good, proceed.
- 22. Inspect the wiring between the ABS module and the rear left wheel speed sensor for shorts or breaks. Use a multimeter to test continuity. DECISION: If a short is found, repair the wiring; if not, proceed.
- 33. Test the resistance of the wheel speed sensor. It should be between 800 to 1,500 ohms. DECISION: If resistance is out of range, replace the sensor; if in range, proceed.
- 44. Clear the codes and take the vehicle for a test drive. Monitor wheel speed readings during the drive. DECISION: If the code returns, further diagnostics needed on the ABS module.
Common causes
- Damaged wiring or connectors in the rear left wheel speed sensor circuit
- Corrosion at the sensor connector
- Faulty wheel speed sensor
- Improper installation of brake components
Typical repair cost
$$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
It's not recommended to drive extensively as stability features may be compromised.
Will this problem come back after fixing?
If properly diagnosed and repaired, the issue shouldn't return.
Why does this code pair with other C160x codes?
These codes relate to different wheel speed sensor circuits and indicate similar faults across the braking system.
Working a real vehicle right now?
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