What it means
The ABS or brake control module has detected a fault associated with the right rear wheel speed sensor. The code alone does not establish whether the sensor, wiring, or related signal components are at fault.
At a glance
- Usually lights the ABS or stability-control warning light
How it works
Each wheel speed sensor reports wheel rotation to the ABS or brake control module, which uses the readings to manage ABS and stability control. C0050 flags a fault associated specifically with the right rear wheel speed signal; it does not by itself distinguish a failed sensor from a wiring, tone ring, or hub issue.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wheel speed sensor failed
- Tone ring damaged or contaminated
- Wiring break or chafe under chassis
- Wheel hub bearing with integrated sensor ring failed
Symptoms
- ABS or stability-control warning light
- ABS or stability control may be limited or disabled
How to diagnose it
- Read the ABS module's freeze-frame and live wheel-speed data to see whether the right rear reading is missing, erratic, or different from the other wheels.
- Inspect the right rear sensor connector and underbody wiring for looseness, corrosion, chafing, or a break, especially near the suspension and hub.
- Check the right rear sensor and tone ring for damage, contamination, excessive gap, or debris that could disrupt the signal.
- If the sensor is part of the hub, check for hub-bearing play or damage that could affect the integrated tone ring.
- Test the right rear sensor circuit and sensor output using the manufacturer's procedure and specification before replacing parts.
Common fixes
- Clean debris from the right rear sensor or tone ring if contamination is present.
- Repair chafed or broken right rear sensor wiring and secure it away from moving parts.
- Reconnect or replace a damaged right rear sensor connector.
- Replace a failed right rear wheel speed sensor.
- Replace a damaged tone ring or hub assembly if its sensor ring is faulty.
Can I keep driving?
You can usually drive cautiously if braking feels normal, but ABS and stability control may be unavailable. Allow extra stopping distance, avoid slippery roads and hard braking, and address the fault promptly; a separate brake warning or abnormal braking needs immediate attention.
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.