C0050 code meaning
Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction
What C0050 means
A general circuit-malfunction code for the right rear wheel speed sensor, covering an electrical fault not resolved to a more specific sub-type: open circuit, short to power or ground, or a signal that drops out or becomes implausible while driving. The active sensor reports rear wheel rotation to the ABS/ESC module for anti-lock, traction and stability control and electronic brake-force distribution; a chafed or broken harness, a failed sensor element or a corroded connector interrupts it, often intermittently. ABS, traction and stability control are disabled and the ABS warning lamp is set while base braking remains. Bosch active wheel speed sensors use a Hall element reading a magnetic encoder and need an intact two-wire circuit. No code-specific public bulletin was confirmed; the entry follows the SAE J2012 generic definition.
C0050 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0050
- ABS warning lamp on
- ABS and stability control disabled
- Speedometer may read erratically
Common causes of C0050
- Most likelyBroken or chafed sensor harness wiring
- PossibleWheel speed sensor failed
- Less likelyCorroded sensor connector
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Wheel speed sensorABS control moduleTone ringSensor wiring
What each part of C0050 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 50 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0050 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about C0050
What does C0050 mean?
C0050 means "Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction". A general circuit-malfunction code for the right rear wheel speed sensor, covering an electrical fault not resolved to a more specific sub-type: open circuit, short to power or ground, or a signal that drops out or becomes implausible while driving. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0050?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0050 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0050 fail an emissions test?
C0050 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is C0050 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will C0050 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.