Internal failure of the ABS/TCS control module, such as a faulty processor, memory corruption, or failed output driver.; Low or unstable battery voltage or poor ground connections to the module, causing self-test failures.; Corroded or damaged wiring harness connectors at the module, leading to intermittent power or communication faults.; Water intrusion or physical damage to the module, often from a leaking windshield cowl or road debris.; A software glitch or corrupted calibration in the module that requires reflashing or replacement.; Faulty power or ground circuits to the module, including blown fuses or damaged relays.; In rare cases, a communication network issue (CAN bus) that disrupts the module's internal monitoring.

DTC codes / C02xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0246

C0246ABS/TCS Control Module Internal Performance

Q: What does code C0246 mean?

ABS/TCS Control Module Internal Performance. C0246 means the antilock braking system (ABS) or traction control system (TCS) control module has detected an internal performance fault, such as a processor, memory, or output driver failure within the module itself. The computer is not reporting a wheel speed sensor or hydraulic problem; it is flagging that the module's own self-test has failed or that its internal commands do not match expected results.

C0246 means the antilock braking system (ABS) or traction control system (TCS) control module has detected an internal performance fault, such as a processor, memory, or output driver failure within the module itself. The computer is not reporting a wheel speed sensor or hydraulic problem; it is flagging that the module's own self-test has failed or that its internal commands do not match expected results.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyProfessional

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard, often accompanied by the traction control light.
Traction control system disabled, with the TCS or stability control warning light on.
ABS and traction control functions may be completely inoperative, though normal braking usually remains.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with the vehicle driving and braking normally under light use.
In some cases, the ABS may activate intermittently or at low speeds without cause.
Cruise control may be disabled if it shares data with the ABS/TCS module.

Common causes, most likely first

Internal failure of the ABS/TCS control module, such as a faulty processor, memory corruption, or failed output driver.
Low or unstable battery voltage or poor ground connections to the module, causing self-test failures.
Corroded or damaged wiring harness connectors at the module, leading to intermittent power or communication faults.
Water intrusion or physical damage to the module, often from a leaking windshield cowl or road debris.
A software glitch or corrupted calibration in the module that requires reflashing or replacement.
Faulty power or ground circuits to the module, including blown fuses or damaged relays.
In rare cases, a communication network issue (CAN bus) that disrupts the module's internal monitoring.

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify battery voltage and condition, and check all fuses and relays feeding the ABS/TCS module.
Inspect the module's electrical connectors for corrosion, water intrusion, or loose pins, and clean or repair as needed.
Check ground connections for the module and the vehicle body, ensuring they are clean and tight.
Perform a thorough visual inspection of the module and its wiring for damage or signs of overheating.
Use a scan tool to clear the code and road-test the vehicle to see if it returns; if it does, proceed with module diagnostics.
Check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) or software updates for the ABS/TCS module that may address internal performance faults.
If all external factors are ruled out, replace or reprogram the ABS/TCS control module as the final step.

Before you replace the ABS module

A weak battery or poor ground can cause the module to fail its internal self-test and set C0246, so always rule out power and ground issues first.
Water damage from a clogged sunroof drain or cowl leak often corrodes the module's circuit board, leading to internal performance codes that mimic a failed module.
Some vehicles require the ABS module to be reprogrammed or calibrated after replacement, and a used module may not be plug-and-play.
C0246 can be set by a communication fault on the CAN bus that interrupts the module's internal monitoring, so check for other communication codes before condemning the module.
Intermittent module failures may only set the code under specific conditions like temperature extremes or vibration, so a thorough road test with a scan tool recording live data is essential.

Can I keep driving with C0246?

The vehicle remains safe to drive under normal braking because the base hydraulic system is unaffected, but ABS and traction control are disabled, so avoid slippery conditions and hard braking. Have the fault diagnosed promptly to restore full safety system function.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.