C1708

Right Rear Center Sensor Circuit Short to Vbat

Chassis Chassis/Safety ABS/Stability Sensor 🔴 Serious — Stop or limit driving 🚫 Do Not Drive
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What This Actually Means

In plain language — no jargon

The right rear center sensor is sending a signal that's stuck at maximum voltage, like a stuck accelerator pedal that won't return to idle. This usually means a wiring problem is causing the sensor circuit to short directly to the battery's positive voltage.

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Symptoms You May Notice

3 known symptoms for this code
ABS or stability control warning light illuminated
Loss of traction control or ABS functionality
Possible rough braking or skidding on slippery surfaces
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How Your ECU Detects This

Technical sensor logic and voltage thresholds

The ECU monitors the right rear center sensor's output voltage, expecting a variable signal between ground and a reference voltage. When the circuit shorts to Vbat (battery voltage), the sensor output becomes fixed at maximum voltage, exceeding the normal operating range. The ECU detects this abnormal condition and sets the fault code.

Voltage & Parameter Thresholds

ParameterNormal RangeFault Condition
Sensor Output Voltage 0.5V to 4.5V (variable) Greater than 5V or stuck at Vbat
Circuit Resistance 1kΩ to 10kΩ Less than 0.5Ω (short condition)
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Diagnostic & DIY Fix Guide

Check these in order — from cheapest to most complex
1
Wiring harness connector
Inspect and reseat the sensor connector at the right rear wheel; corrosion or loose pins often cause voltage shorts.
2
Sensor wiring
Check for damaged insulation, pinched wires, or exposed conductors near the right rear suspension that may be touching battery positive.
3
Right rear center sensor
Replace the sensor if wiring checks out, as internal short inside the sensor unit itself may be the cause.
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When to See a Professional Mechanic

Not all fault codes are safe to DIY

Code C1708 is classified as a serious fault. If your check engine light is flashing — not just steady — pull over safely and do not continue driving. A flashing CEL indicates an active misfire or critical failure that can cause catalytic converter damage within minutes or permanent engine harm within miles. Contact a certified mechanic immediately. Do not attempt roadside repairs on high-severity codes unless you are trained to do so.

Safety note: OBD-II codes identify the system or circuit where a fault was detected — they do not always identify the exact failed component. A professional mechanic using live sensor data will diagnose the root cause more accurately than replacing parts based on the code alone.
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How to Clear Code C1708

What happens after you fix the fault

Once the fault is repaired, C1708 can be cleared using any OBD-II scanner. Connect the scanner, navigate to "Clear Codes" or "Erase DTCs," and confirm. The check engine light turns off immediately.

The code will return if the root cause was not actually fixed. The ECM re-detects the fault within 1–3 drive cycles and sets the code again.

✅ Safe to Clear When
  • Fault has been diagnosed and repaired
  • You want to confirm the repair worked
  • Code appeared after a sensor was cleaned
⚠️ Do Not Clear When
  • Preparing for an emissions/PUC test
  • Root cause is still undiagnosed
  • Check engine light is flashing
Emissions test note: Clearing codes resets OBD readiness monitors. Most vehicles need 50–100 km of mixed driving before monitors complete. Do not clear codes immediately before an emissions or PUC inspection.