What Does C1950 Mean?
The stability control module has detected that the accelerometer sensor circuit is connected but producing irrational or out-of-range output values. Unlike an open circuit (C1949), the sensor is communicating but the readings do not make physical sense — such as indicating extreme acceleration while the vehicle is stationary. The ESC and traction control systems will be disabled. The driver will see warning lights and may notice a lack of stability intervention.
Common Causes
35%
Faulty accelerometer sensor with degraded MEMS element producing incorrect output
25%
Sensor mounting loose or rotated from correct orientation, producing physically impossible readings
20%
Intermittent wiring fault causing signal noise or voltage drops on the accelerometer circuit
10%
Water intrusion into the sensor assembly causing internal corrosion and erratic output
10%
5V reference voltage out of specification feeding the sensor incorrect supply power
Diagnostic Steps
1
Monitor the accelerometer live data PID with the vehicle stationary on a level surface. The reading should be approximately 0 g (or very near zero) for longitudinal acceleration. Note the actual reading — significant deviation confirms the fault.
2
Check the sensor mounting for security and correct orientation. The sensor has a specific mounting direction indicator (arrow or marking). If it has been disturbed, remount correctly and recalibrate.
3
Measure the 5V reference voltage at the sensor connector with the sensor disconnected. It should be 5.0V +/- 0.1V. Low or fluctuating reference voltage will cause inaccurate sensor readings.
4
With the sensor connected, gently tap the sensor housing while monitoring live data. The reading should respond smoothly to vibration. Erratic spikes or dropout indicate a damaged MEMS element inside the sensor.
5
If the sensor passes static tests, road-test while monitoring live data. Compare longitudinal accelerometer readings to actual vehicle acceleration/braking. Values should track smoothly with vehicle dynamics. Inconsistent readings confirm sensor failure.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $700
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The stability control module has detected that the accelerometer sensor circuit is connected but producing irrational or out-of-range output values. Unlike an open circuit (C1949), the sensor is communicating but the readings do not make physical sense — such as indicating extreme acceleration while...
The most common cause of C1950 (Accelerometer Sensor Circuit Failure) is: Faulty accelerometer sensor with degraded MEMS element producing incorrect output
Typical repair costs for C1950 range from $150 to $700, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
ESC and traction control systems are disabled due to unreliable sensor data. The vehicle retains basic ABS functionality but cannot perform stability corrections. Avoid aggressive driving, wet/icy roads, and high-speed maneuvers. Repair should be prioritized as a safety system issue.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1950 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Stability Control / Traction Control
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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