OBD-II fault code

C050C: Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit/Open

What it means

The module detects an open circuit or missing signal from the left-rear wheel-speed sensor. The fault may be in the sensor, wiring, or connection.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the ABS or stability-control warning light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

The ABS module uses the left-rear wheel-speed sensor to track how fast that wheel turns and help manage anti-lock braking and stability control. This code sets when the module detects an open circuit or cannot receive the left-rear wheel’s speed signal.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Broken or disconnected wiring
  2. Loose or corroded connector
  3. Failed wheel-speed sensor
  4. Damaged tone ring or encoder

Symptoms

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

How to diagnose it

  1. Check freeze-frame data and live wheel-speed readings; see whether the left-rear value is missing while the other three wheels report speed.
  2. Inspect the left-rear sensor connector and harness for disconnection, corrosion, impact damage, or a break along the rear suspension and body routing.
  3. Check that the left-rear sensor is seated securely and inspect its tone ring or encoder for damage or debris that could interrupt the signal.
  4. Compare the left-rear sensor signal with another wheel while rotating the wheels as appropriate for the vehicle.
  5. Test continuity and shorts in the left-rear sensor wiring, then test the sensor and circuit against the manufacturer's specification.

Common fixes

  • Reconnect and secure the left-rear sensor connector.
  • Repair broken or chafed left-rear sensor wiring.
  • Clean corrosion from the connector or replace a damaged connector.
  • Replace a failed left-rear wheel-speed sensor.
  • Repair or replace a damaged left-rear tone ring or encoder.

Can I keep driving?

The base brakes may still work, but ABS and stability control may be unavailable and brake assist may be reduced. Drive cautiously, leave extra stopping distance, and avoid high speeds or slippery roads 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