Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
The C0050 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit. This is a critical severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Short distances only
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $100 - $300 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms
- ABS warning light on dashboard
- Traction control system disabled
- Stability control light on
- ABS not functioning during braking
- Possible cruise control inoperative
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Failed right rear wheel speed sensor Very High
- Wiring damage from road debris or corrosion High
- Contaminated or misaligned sensor Moderate
- Damaged or missing tone ring teeth Moderate
- ABS module internal circuit failure Low
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Scan for DTCs and review freeze frame data
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Inspect right rear sensor wiring harness for damage along frame and axle
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Measure sensor resistance and compare to factory specifications
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Monitor live wheel speed data from all four wheels during a test drive
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Remove and inspect the tone ring for cracks or missing teeth
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing C0050 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2007-2018 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra easy DIY
Right rear wheel speed sensor -- same diagnosis and repair as C0045 left rear. The sensor corrodes into the axle housing. Penetrating oil, gentle extraction, replace with ACDelco part. Check the wiring harness along the rear axle for chafing where it crosses the frame crossmember. A chafed wire can mimic a sensor failure.
Labor: 30 min - 1 hour2007-2017 Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon easy DIY
Right rear sensor replacement procedure is identical to the left. On full-size GM SUVs, also check for play in the rear axle bearings -- excessive bearing play changes the air gap between the sensor and reluctor ring, causing erratic speed readings. Grab the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock and rock it; any movement indicates bearing wear.
Labor: 30 min - 1 hour2014-2020 Chevrolet Impala/Malibu easy DIY
On GM sedans, the rear wheel speed sensor is part of the rear hub assembly. The sensor cannot be replaced separately. These hubs are much easier to replace than truck axle sensors -- 3 bolts and an electrical connector. Use a torque wrench to tighten the hub bolts to spec (85 ft-lbs) to avoid warped readings from an improperly seated hub.
Labor: 45 min - 1 hourFrequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive with the ABS light on from a C0050 code?
Your standard brakes will work, but ABS, traction control, and stability control are disabled. Avoid driving in rain, snow, or icy conditions until repaired. Get it fixed as soon as possible.
Can I clear the code and see if it comes back?
You can clear the code, but if the underlying issue is not fixed, it will return. If the code returns immediately, there is a hard fault. If it returns intermittently, check for a loose connection or damaged wiring.
Why does my truck keep blowing rear wheel speed sensors?
Trucks are more prone to rear sensor failures because the wiring runs along the frame rail and rear axle, exposed to road debris, water, and salt. Using dielectric grease on connectors and securing loose wiring can help prevent repeat failures.
Sources
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
C0050 on Diesel, EV & Equipment
The same code ID appears across other engines and platforms. The diagnostic flow varies by manufacturer — these are the platform-specific breakdowns:
See All Codes & Fixes for Your Vehicle
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