OBD-II fault code

C0039: Right Rear Tone Wheel

What it means

This code identifies a fault associated with the right-rear tone wheel used by the wheel-speed sensing system. The base code alone does not establish the specific cause.

How it works

The right-rear tone wheel or encoder supplies a repeating target for the right-rear wheel-speed sensor. The ABS module sets this code when the right-rear signal pattern is missing or inconsistent with wheel rotation, which can result from a damaged or misaligned target as well as a sensor or gap problem.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Damaged or cracked tone wheel
  2. Rust or debris on the tone wheel
  3. Tone wheel loose or misaligned
  4. Incorrect sensor air gap

Symptoms

  • ABS warning light on
  • ESC/stability control deactivated
  • Possible reduced brake assist
  • Speedometer may behave erratically

How to diagnose it

  1. Read ABS codes and freeze-frame data, focusing on the right-rear speed value and any related wheel-sensor codes.
  2. Compare live right-rear speed with the other wheels during slow rotation and check for dropouts or irregular changes.
  3. Inspect the right-rear tone wheel or encoder for cracks, rust, debris, looseness, or misalignment.
  4. Check right-rear sensor seating and gap, including bearing or hub alignment if recently serviced.
  5. Inspect the right-rear sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or movement-related chafing.
  6. Test the right-rear sensor signal and wiring according to the manufacturer's procedure to separate a target fault from a circuit fault.

Common fixes

  • Clean debris and corrosion from the right-rear tone-wheel area.
  • Repair damaged right-rear sensor wiring or connector contacts.
  • Correct a loose or misaligned right-rear tone wheel or encoder.
  • Correct the right-rear sensor gap or seating according to the manufacturer's procedure.
  • Replace a damaged tone wheel or integrated encoder/bearing assembly as applicable.

Can I keep driving?

ABS and stability control may be deactivated or limited, and some vehicles may show erratic speed readings or reduced brake assist. Drive cautiously, increase stopping distance, and avoid slippery conditions until repaired.

A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together

This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.

Codes for the same component

Nearby codes