What Does C1114 Mean?
C1114 indicates the ABS control module has detected that the power relay output circuit has an unintended short circuit to ground. This means the relay control circuit is experiencing lower than expected resistance, causing excessive current flow to ground instead of properly energizing the ABS pump motor relay. The ABS module monitors this circuit continuously and sets this code when voltage drops below acceptable thresholds, indicating a grounding fault in the relay control wiring or relay itself.
Safety Warning
This is a critical safety issue as the ABS system will be disabled and may also affect standard braking performance on some vehicles. Vehicle should not be driven except to a repair facility, as emergency braking distances will be significantly increased and loss of vehicle control during hard braking is likely, especially on wet or slippery surfaces.
Common Causes
45%
Damaged wiring harness with chafed or pinched wires causing short to ground between ABS module and power relay
30%
Failed ABS power relay with internal short circuit to ground
15%
Corroded or damaged relay socket/connector with moisture intrusion causing ground path
10%
Failed ABS control module with shorted internal relay driver circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of ABS power relay, relay socket, and associated wiring harness for obvious damage, corrosion, burnt terminals, or chafed wires. Check for moisture intrusion in relay socket and connector pins.
2
Step 2: Remove ABS power relay and use a multimeter to test relay coil resistance (typically 70-120 ohms) and check for continuity between relay control terminals and ground with relay removed. Reading should be infinite resistance (open circuit).
3
Step 3: With relay removed and ignition on, backprobe the relay control circuit at the socket using a multimeter set to DC voltage. Should read battery voltage when ABS system is inactive. If reading shows 0 volts or low voltage, wiring has short to ground.
4
Step 4: Disconnect ABS control module connector and check resistance between relay control wire and ground. Should read infinite resistance (open circuit). If continuity exists, trace and repair shorted wire between module and relay socket.
5
Step 5: If all wiring tests normal, substitute a known-good relay and clear codes. Test drive vehicle and monitor for code return. If code returns with new relay and verified wiring, ABS module internal driver circuit is likely failed.
6
Step 6: After repairs, clear codes, perform ABS self-test procedure per manufacturer specifications, and verify proper ABS operation with test drive including controlled ABS activation at safe location.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $1,200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
C1114 indicates the ABS control module has detected that the power relay output circuit has an unintended short circuit to ground. This means the relay control circuit is experiencing lower than expected resistance, causing excessive current flow to ground instead of properly energizing the ABS pump...
The most common cause of C1114 (ABS Power Relay Output Short Circuit To Ground) is: Damaged wiring harness with chafed or pinched wires causing short to ground between ABS module and power relay
Typical repair costs for C1114 range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This is a critical safety issue as the ABS system will be disabled and may also affect standard braking performance on some vehicles. Vehicle should not be driven except to a repair facility, as emergency braking distances will be significantly increased and loss of vehicle control during hard braking is likely, especially on wet or slippery surfaces.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1114 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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