What Does C1720 Mean?
The Road Sensing Suspension (RSS) module has detected that the left rear damper actuator circuit is shorted to battery voltage. The electronically controlled shock absorber solenoid at the left rear corner has its control wire connected to battery positive, either through wiring damage or an internal solenoid fault. The module cannot properly control the left rear damper firmness, and it will default to a fixed mechanical state.
Common Causes
30%
Damaged wiring harness with the actuator control wire contacting a power source under the vehicle
30%
Internal solenoid coil failure with a short to the supply circuit
25%
Corroded or water-damaged connector at the left rear damper with pin bridging to power
15%
Wire insulation breakdown from road debris impact, rust, or heat exposure near the exhaust
Diagnostic Steps
1
Disconnect the left rear damper actuator connector. Measure the solenoid coil resistance — typically 3–8 ohms. Near-zero or abnormally low resistance indicates an internal short.
2
With the actuator disconnected, check the control wire at the module side for the presence of battery voltage — should not be present. If battery voltage exists on the wire, the harness has a short to a power source.
3
Inspect the wiring harness from the module to the left rear damper, focusing on areas near the exhaust system, rear subframe, fuel tank, and wheel well where exposure to heat and road debris is highest.
4
Check the actuator connector for corrosion, water intrusion, or damaged pins. The left rear connector is particularly exposed to road spray and salt.
5
Using the scan tool, attempt to command the left rear damper actuator while monitoring current draw — compare against specification (typically 0.5–2.0 amps). Excessive current confirms a short.
6
If wiring and actuator test good, the module's output driver may be damaged — swap actuator connections temporarily between left and right rear to isolate the fault.
Estimated Repair Cost
$200 - $800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The Road Sensing Suspension (RSS) module has detected that the left rear damper actuator circuit is shorted to battery voltage. The electronically controlled shock absorber solenoid at the left rear corner has its control wire connected to battery positive, either through wiring damage or an interna...
The most common cause of C1720 (Left Rear Damper Actuator Short Circuit to Battery) is: Damaged wiring harness with the actuator control wire contacting a power source under the vehicle
Typical repair costs for C1720 range from $200 to $800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The left rear damper cannot be electronically controlled and will default to a fixed setting. The vehicle is drivable for routine trips, but ride quality will be unbalanced with three active corners and one fixed. Avoid aggressive driving over rough terrain and schedule repair soon.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1720 to identify the root cause.
OBDHut Mobile App
Scan codes directly from your car with the OBDHut app.
Coming Soon
Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Suspension / Ride Control
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
A quality scan tool helps you read codes, view live data, and clear faults.
