OBD-II fault code

C05F2: Rear Drive Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent

What it means

Intermittent signal from rear drive shaft speed sensor. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.

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 rear drive shaft speed sensor reports shaft rotation to the control module for systems such as ABS and traction control. This code sets when that signal cuts in and out rather than remaining consistent, often due to a loose connection or vibration-sensitive wiring.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Connector loose
  2. Connector with intermittent contact under vibration
  3. Harness routed against vibrating component

Symptoms

  • ABS or traction-control warning light on
  • ABS or traction control may be disabled

How to diagnose it

  1. Review freeze-frame data and monitor rear drive shaft speed live data to identify whether the dropout occurs with vehicle movement, bumps, or vibration.
  2. Inspect the rear sensor connector for looseness, damaged locking features, corrosion, or terminals that do not grip securely.
  3. Gently wiggle the connector and harness while watching the live signal to reproduce the intermittent dropout.
  4. Check whether the rear sensor harness is routed against a vibrating or moving component and inspect it for rubbing or strain.
  5. If the connection and routing are sound, test the rear drive shaft speed sensor and its target using the manufacturer's procedure.

Common fixes

  • Reconnect and lock the rear sensor connector securely.
  • Repair loose or damaged connector terminals and restore the seal.
  • Reroute and secure the harness away from vibration, movement, and rubbing points.
  • Replace the rear drive shaft speed sensor if testing confirms it drops out intermittently.

Can I keep driving?

ABS or traction control may stop working without warning, so drive cautiously and increase following distance. Avoid rough or slippery conditions until the intermittent signal is fixed.

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