What it means
Right-rear WSS A correlation fault. Wheel-speed signals feed ABS, ESC, traction control, transmission and odometer — a single dropped signal disables all of these safety functions until repaired.
How it works
The ABS module compares the right-rear wheel-speed sensor A signal with the other wheel-speed readings to check whether they agree. C0517 sets when the right-rear reading does not correlate with those related signals, which can result from an encoder, installation, sensor, or wiring problem.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Damaged or contaminated tone ring or encoder
- Incorrect sensor air gap or sensor installation
- Wheel-speed sensor or wiring fault
Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- Traction or stability control warning light on
- ABS or stability-control functions may be limited
How to diagnose it
- Review freeze-frame data and graph all wheel speeds to see when the right-rear sensor A reading separates from the others.
- Inspect the right-rear sensor A connector and wiring for looseness, corrosion, chafing, or damage.
- Check the right-rear tone ring or encoder for contamination, missing or damaged features, and uneven movement.
- Confirm the right-rear sensor is seated and mounted correctly, with no visible gap or hub issue affecting its position.
- Test the right-rear sensor A and its circuit against the manufacturer’s specifications if the visual checks do not reveal the cause.
Common fixes
- Clean the right-rear encoder and remove contamination affecting its signal.
- Correct the right-rear sensor installation or secure its mounting.
- Repair damaged right-rear sensor wiring or connector terminals.
- Replace a faulty right-rear sensor or damaged tone ring/encoder.
Can I keep driving?
ABS, traction control, or stability functions may be limited while the right-rear reading disagrees with the other wheels. Drive gently, increase stopping distance, and avoid 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.