What Does C1406 Mean?
The ABS module has detected a short-to-ground condition in the rear traction control valve solenoid circuit. The wiring is making unintended contact with vehicle ground, which prevents proper solenoid control and could damage the module's driver circuit. Traction control will be disabled and the warning light will be on.
Common Causes
40%
Chafed or pinched wire insulation contacting chassis or body ground
25%
Water intrusion and corrosion in the rear solenoid connector
20%
Internally shorted rear traction control solenoid coil to case
15%
ABS module internal failure with grounded driver output
Diagnostic Steps
1
Disconnect the ABS HCU connector. Measure resistance from each rear traction control solenoid pin to chassis ground — should read OL (infinite). A low reading confirms a short to ground.
2
Disconnect the solenoid at the valve end and re-measure at the module harness connector. If the short clears, the solenoid itself is internally shorted to ground.
3
If the short persists with the solenoid disconnected, the fault is in the wiring. Inspect the harness for chafing against metal edges, subframe bolts, or suspension brackets.
4
Check the solenoid connector for moisture, corrosion, or debris creating conductive paths between pins and the housing.
5
After repair, clear codes and operate the traction control system through several activation cycles to verify proper solenoid function.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $1,100
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ABS module has detected a short-to-ground condition in the rear traction control valve solenoid circuit. The wiring is making unintended contact with vehicle ground, which prevents proper solenoid control and could damage the module's driver circuit. Traction control will be disabled and the war...
The most common cause of C1406 (Traction Control Valve Rear Circuit Short To Ground) is: Chafed or pinched wire insulation contacting chassis or body ground
Typical repair costs for C1406 range from $100 to $1,100, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Traction control is disabled for the rear axle. A ground short could potentially cause unintended solenoid activation, leading to unexpected rear brake application. Drive with caution, avoid aggressive maneuvers on slippery roads, and have the system repaired promptly.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1406 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
ABS / Traction Control
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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