What Does C1115 Mean?
This code indicates the ABS control module has detected that the ABS power relay output circuit is shorted to battery voltage when it should not be energized. The ABS module monitors the relay control circuit and has identified an unintended voltage present on the output side, suggesting current flow when the relay should be off. This prevents proper control of the ABS hydraulic pump motor and can disable the entire anti-lock braking system.
Safety Warning
The ABS system will be disabled and the vehicle will have conventional braking only without anti-lock functionality, significantly increasing stopping distances on wet or slippery surfaces and risk of loss of control during emergency braking. The vehicle is technically drivable but should be repaired immediately as the short circuit could drain the battery or cause further electrical damage.
Common Causes
35%
Damaged or shorted ABS power relay with internal contacts stuck closed or coil-to-contact short
30%
Shorted wiring harness between ABS relay and hydraulic pump motor, often caused by chafing, pinching, or corrosion creating a path to battery voltage
20%
Failed ABS hydraulic control unit with internal short in pump motor circuit or relay driver
10%
Corroded or damaged relay socket/connector with crossed terminals causing unintended battery voltage feed
5%
Faulty ABS control module relay driver circuit with internal component failure causing false detection
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of ABS power relay, relay socket, and all related connectors for signs of overheating, melting, corrosion, or physical damage. Check for proper relay seating and terminal integrity.
2
Step 2: Remove ABS power relay and use a digital multimeter to measure voltage at the relay output terminal in the socket with ignition on. Should read 0V when relay is removed; if battery voltage is present, wiring is shorted to power downstream.
3
Step 3: With relay still removed, inspect relay terminals for evidence of arcing or welding. Test relay itself using multimeter to check for continuity between control coil and power contacts (should be infinite resistance/open circuit). Apply 12V to relay coil terminals and verify proper switching function.
4
Step 4: If relay and socket test good, disconnect ABS hydraulic unit connector and measure resistance between relay output circuit and ground, then to battery voltage. Should read open circuit (OL); low resistance indicates short in harness between relay and pump motor.
5
Step 5: Trace and physically inspect the wiring harness from relay socket to ABS hydraulic unit, paying special attention to areas where harness passes through body panels, near sharp edges, or contacts moving suspension components.
6
Step 6: After repairs, install known-good relay, reconnect all components, clear codes, and perform ABS system functional test including pump activation via scan tool bidirectional controls. Verify no voltage present on output circuit when relay is commanded off.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $1,200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the ABS control module has detected that the ABS power relay output circuit is shorted to battery voltage when it should not be energized. The ABS module monitors the relay control circuit and has identified an unintended voltage present on the output side, suggesting current flo...
The most common cause of C1115 (ABS Power Relay Output Short Circuit To Battery) is: Damaged or shorted ABS power relay with internal contacts stuck closed or coil-to-contact short
Typical repair costs for C1115 range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The ABS system will be disabled and the vehicle will have conventional braking only without anti-lock functionality, significantly increasing stopping distances on wet or slippery surfaces and risk of loss of control during emergency braking. The vehicle is technically drivable but should be repaired immediately as the short circuit could drain the battery or cause further electrical damage.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1115 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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