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DTC codes / C05xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0512

C0512Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor A Circuit/Open

C0512 means the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module has detected an open circuit in the right rear wheel speed sensor's signal path. The module monitors the sensor's electrical circuit and flags this code when the expected voltage or current is missing, indicating a break in the wiring, a failed sensor, or a poor connection.

SystemChassis
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

  • ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • Traction control or stability control warning light may also be on
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light
  • ABS may be disabled, leading to longer stopping distances on slippery surfaces
  • Speedometer may fluctuate or read incorrectly if the sensor signal is used for speed display
  • Cruise control may not engage or may disengage unexpectedly

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Damaged or corroded wheel speed sensor connector at the right rear wheel
  2. Broken or chafed wire in the right rear sensor harness
  3. Failed right rear wheel speed sensor
  4. Debris or metallic particles on the sensor tip or tone ring
  5. Faulty ABS control module (less common)
  6. Water intrusion or corrosion in the wiring harness

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the right rear wheel speed sensor connector for corrosion, tightness, and damaged pins; clean or repair as needed
  2. Check the sensor harness for physical damage, chafing, or breaks along its routing
  3. Measure the sensor's resistance with a multimeter and compare to the manufacturer's specification
  4. Perform a voltage drop test on the sensor circuit while wiggling the harness to detect intermittent opens
  5. Remove the sensor and clean the mounting surface and tone ring; replace the sensor if damaged or if resistance is out of spec
  6. Clear the code and test-drive the vehicle to verify the repair
  7. If the code persists, diagnose the ABS control module and its connections

Common misdiagnosis traps for C0512

  • A loose or corroded connector at the sensor is a frequent cause that is often overlooked in favor of replacing the sensor itself.
  • The tone ring or sensor tip may be contaminated with metallic debris, causing an open circuit signal without any visible wire damage.
  • Intermittent opens can occur only when the suspension moves, so a static resistance test may pass while the fault is still present.
  • Some vehicles use the right rear wheel speed sensor for the speedometer, so a faulty sensor can cause erratic speed readings and affect transmission shifting.
  • The ABS control module may set this code if its internal circuitry fails, but this is rare and should be confirmed with a thorough circuit test before replacement.

Can I keep driving with C0512?

You can usually drive the vehicle with this code, but the ABS and traction control systems may be disabled, increasing stopping distances on slippery surfaces. Avoid driving in wet or icy conditions and have the fault repaired promptly to restore full safety system function.

Tools that help

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

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