C0048 DTC: Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit High

What Does C0048 Mean?

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) C0048 indicates that the ABS control module has detected a voltage or signal level higher than the specified operating range in the right rear wheel speed sensor circuit. This condition is commonly caused by an open circuit, excessive resistance, poor electrical connections, damaged wiring, or a faulty wheel speed sensor.

Symptoms

• ABS warning light illuminated
• Traction Control (TCS) warning light ON
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning
• ABS disabled during hard braking
• Traction Control unavailable
• Cruise control may be disabled on some vehicles
• Additional ABS-related DTCs stored

Common Causes

• Faulty right rear wheel speed sensor
• Open circuit in the sensor wiring
• Loose or disconnected electrical connector
• Corroded connector terminals
• Damaged wiring harness
• Damaged tone ring (reluctor ring)
• Faulty ABS control module (rare)

Typical Diagnostic Flow

ABS Control Module

│

▼

Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor

ABS Module │ ▼ Wheel Sensor │ ▲ High Voltage

High Sensor Circuit Voltage

▼

Inspect Sensor, Wiring, Connector & Tone Ring

How to Diagnose C0048

• Read ABS DTCs using a professional scan tool.
• Monitor live wheel speed data while driving.
• Compare the right rear wheel speed with the remaining wheels.
• Inspect the sensor wiring for open circuits or damaged insulation.
• Check the connector for loose, bent, or corroded terminals.
• Inspect the tone ring for cracks, rust, or missing teeth.
• Measure sensor resistance and circuit voltage according to manufacturer specifications.

Typical Values

• All wheel speed sensors should display nearly identical wheel speeds during normal driving.
• A consistently high circuit voltage usually indicates an open circuit or poor electrical connection.
• Actual specifications vary by vehicle manufacturer.

Estimated Repair Cost

• Wheel speed sensor replacement: $70–250
• Wiring repair: $50–200
• Connector replacement: $30–120
• Tone ring replacement: $80–300
• Wheel bearing replacement: $150–500
• ABS module replacement: $400–1,200

Related DTCs

• C0046
• C0047
• C0049
• C0050
• C0051

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with C0048?

Yes. Normal braking remains available, but the ABS, Traction Control, and Stability Control systems may be disabled until the fault is repaired.

What is the most common cause of C0048?

The most common causes are an open circuit, damaged wiring, loose connectors, corroded terminals, or a faulty right rear wheel speed sensor.

Will clearing the DTC permanently fix C0048?

No. Clearing the code only removes it temporarily. If the high-voltage condition remains, the ABS module will detect the fault again during the next self-test.