C0130

Code

Generic C — Chassis

Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Brand: Generic

Type: C — Chassis

Views: UK: 25 EN: 28 RU: 23

AI status

Completed

ready

Completed 100%

Page language: EN

Causes

Open or shorted wheel speed sensor wiring
Corroded or damaged connector at sensor or ABS module
Failed wheel speed sensor (passive or active type)
Damage, missing or contaminated tone/ring (reluctor) on hub/axle
ABS module fault or poor module ground/supply
Intermittent wiring due to chafing, broken shield or pinched harness

Symptoms

ABS and/or traction/stability warning light illuminated
Inoperative or reduced ABS/ESC/traction control functionality
Illuminated ABS lamp with stored C0130 in ABS module
Possible inconsistent speedometer reading (on some vehicles)
Intermittent fault that may clear when wiring is moved or vehicle warmed

What to check

Read ABS/traction module freeze frame and live data with a scan tool
Visually inspect sensor, tone ring, and connector for damage and corrosion
Check for water intrusion or pinched wiring in wheel arch areas
Compare suspect wheel speed signal to opposite wheel while rolling
Wiggle harness while watching live data to look for intermittent changes

Signal parameters

Passive (magnetic) sensor: AC waveform amplitude increases with wheel speed; typical DC resistance varies by design (often a few hundred to a few thousand ohms).
Active (Hall/electronic) sensor: digital square wave or pulse train, typically 0–5 V (or 0–12 V on some systems) referenced to vehicle ground; frequency proportional to wheel speed.
At rest: zero frequency/zero pulses. While rolling: frequency and pulse rate increase with speed and should be similar on left/right for same rolling speed.
Supply voltage for active sensors: typically 5 V or battery voltage (check OEM spec); ground must be solid.

Diagnostic algorithm

Retrieve stored codes, freeze frame and live wheel speed sensor data from ABS/traction module using a capable scan tool. Note which wheel is reported.
Perform a visual inspection: sensor condition, connector engagement, pin corrosion, tone ring missing/damaged, metal shavings or debris.
With ignition ON, probe sensor connector: for active sensors check supply voltage (usually 5 V or battery) and ground; for passive check resistance between sensor terminals and compare to spec.
Spin the wheel by hand (lift vehicle safely) and observe live data or use a hand-held scope/multimeter to check for waveform/pulses; compare to opposite wheel.
Wiggle harness and joints while observing signal to find intermittent breaks. Inspect where harness passes steering knuckle or suspension pivot points.
If wiring appears open/shorted, perform continuity and resistance checks from sensor connector to ABS module pins; repair any damaged wiring or terminals.
If wiring and connectors are good but signal missing or abnormal, replace the wheel speed sensor. Clean or replace damaged/dirty tone ring as needed.
After repair, clear codes and perform a road test or ABS pump activation routine as required by vehicle to confirm proper operation and no reoccurrence.

Likely causes

Connector corrosion or loose terminal at the sensor
Physical damage to sensor or tone ring (impact, rust, heavy contamination)
Frayed wiring where harness flexes (wheel arch, suspension joint)
Sensor air gap out of specification after service or wheel bearing replacement

Fault status

⚠️ Status

ABS module detected missing, implausible, or out-of-range wheel speed sensor signal on a wheel speed sensor circuit. Store fault for investigation—may be wiring, connector, sensor or tone ring related.

🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium

⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-2 hours