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C1279

Critical
Moderate

Yaw Rate Sensor circuit Failure

What Does C1279 Mean?

The yaw rate sensor circuit has a complete electrical failure — the EBCM/stability control module cannot communicate with or read the yaw rate sensor at all. The yaw rate sensor measures the vehicle's rotational velocity around its vertical axis, which is critical for stability control. ESC and related dynamic stability functions will be fully disabled.

Safety Warning

Electronic stability control is completely disabled. The vehicle will not have any yaw correction capability in skid or slide conditions. ABS may still function for straight-line braking, but advanced stability features are offline. Drive very cautiously in curves, on wet/icy roads, and in emergency maneuvers. Prioritize this repair — ESC is among the most important active safety systems.

Common Causes

35%

Failed yaw rate sensor (internal circuit failure or open)

Yaw rate sensor
Yaw rate/lateral acceleration combo sensor

25%

Open or shorted wiring in the yaw rate sensor circuit

Sensor wiring harness
Underbody connectors
Harness clips

20%

Corroded or disconnected connector at the yaw rate sensor

Yaw sensor connector
Weatherpack seal
Terminal pins

10%

Blown fuse in the sensor power supply circuit

ABS/ESC fuse
Sensor power supply fuse

10%

EBCM internal fault on the yaw rate sensor input circuit

EBCM
Stability control module

Diagnostic Steps

1

Check all ABS/ESC-related fuses first — a blown fuse will cause a complete circuit failure for the sensor. Verify power supply voltage at the yaw rate sensor connector (typically 5V or 12V reference depending on vehicle).

2

With the sensor connector disconnected, measure the sensor supply and signal wire continuity from the EBCM connector back to the sensor connector — any open circuit indicates a harness break.

3

Inspect the yaw rate sensor connector (usually located under the center console or near the center tunnel) for water intrusion, corrosion, or rodent damage to wiring.

4

Measure the yaw rate sensor output signal voltage with the ignition on and vehicle stationary — it should output a steady reference voltage (typically 2.5V for analog sensors). No output confirms sensor failure.

5

If the sensor and wiring check good, use a known-good sensor as a substitute test, or monitor the EBCM input pin directly with a scope to rule out a module-side input failure.

Estimated Repair Cost

$200 - $800

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C1279 mean?

The yaw rate sensor circuit has a complete electrical failure — the EBCM/stability control module cannot communicate with or read the yaw rate sensor at all. The yaw rate sensor measures the vehicle's rotational velocity around its vertical axis, which is critical for stability control. ESC and rela...

What causes C1279?

The most common cause of C1279 (Yaw Rate Sensor circuit Failure) is: Failed yaw rate sensor (internal circuit failure or open)

How much does it cost to fix C1279?

Typical repair costs for C1279 range from $200 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with C1279?

Electronic stability control is completely disabled. The vehicle will not have any yaw correction capability in skid or slide conditions. ABS may still function for straight-line braking, but advanced stability features are offline. Drive very cautiously in curves, on wet/icy roads, and in emergency maneuvers. Prioritize this repair — ESC is among the most important active safety systems.

How do I diagnose C1279?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1279 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Chassis

System

Electronic Stability Control

Difficulty

Moderate

Type

Manufacturer

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