Quick Answer
C0013 means: C0013 means there's a problem with the wheel speed sensor circuit, affecting ABS and traction control.
Can I drive with C0013? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe vehicle operation.
Common Questions
What does C0013 mean and how does it affect my car?
C0013 indicates a malfunction in the wheel speed sensor circuit. This can lead to reduced effectiveness of your vehicle's traction control and ABS. When this code appears, your car may experience longer braking distances and potential loss of control, especially in adverse weather conditions.
What are the most common causes of C0013 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty wheel speed sensor, damaged wiring, or corrosion at the connector. Repair costs typically range from $100 to $300 for sensor replacement, depending on your vehicle make and model.
Can I drive my car with C0013 or should I stop immediately?
It is advisable to stop driving and address the issue as soon as possible. Ignoring this code can compromise your braking system, increasing the risk of accidents.
How can I diagnose C0013 myself using GeekOBD APP?
You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan for DTCs, retrieve freeze frame data, and monitor real-time sensor data to identify any anomalies or inconsistencies in the wheel speed readings.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0013?
C0013 is often found in vehicles like the 2013-2017 Ford Fusion, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Malibu, and various models from Honda and Toyota. Some of these vehicles have known recalls related to ABS performance.
How can I prevent C0013 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking and cleaning electrical connections, inspecting the wheel speed sensors for damage, and ensuring that your brake system is in good working order, can help prevent future occurrences of code C0013.
What is C0013?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0013 indicates a problem with the wheel speed sensor circuit, specifically related to range or performance issues. This code is commonly triggered in vehicles like the 2013-2017 Ford Fusion and the 2014-2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The wheel speed sensor is a crucial component of your vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS) and stability control systems. It measures the speed of each wheel and sends this data to the vehicle's computer. When the computer detects an inconsistency in the sensor's readings, it sets the C0013 code, which can lead to several performance issues. Real-world implications include reduced effectiveness of traction control and ABS, which can compromise safety. Ignoring this code can lead to further damage to the braking system or increased wear on tires. If the code appears, it’s advisable to address it promptly to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently. Regular diagnostics using tools like the GeekOBD APP can help identify and resolve these issues before they escalate.
System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when C0013 is present:
- The check engine light may illuminate, indicating a fault in the vehicle's ABS or traction control systems.
- You might experience a noticeable decrease in braking performance, especially during slippery conditions, leading to longer stopping distances.
- The ABS warning light could appear on the dashboard, indicating that the anti-lock braking system is disabled.
- Inconsistent speedometer readings can occur, which may confuse the driver about the vehicle’s actual speed.
- You may feel the vehicle lose traction unexpectedly, especially on wet or uneven surfaces, due to malfunctioning traction control.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of C0013 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of C0013 is a faulty wheel speed sensor, with likelihood around 60%. This can occur due to wear and tear or physical damage.
- A broken or damaged wiring harness can also trigger this code, accounting for about 25% of cases. Inspect the wiring for frays or corrosion.
- Corrosion at the sensor connector is another potential cause, which can be prevented by regularly cleaning and maintaining sensor connections.
- Less common but serious causes include issues with the vehicle's ABS module, which can lead to more extensive repairs.
- A rare cause could be a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM), which can confuse the system and require professional diagnostic tools for resolution.
C0013 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty wheel speed sensor.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for C0013
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional C0013 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0013. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection to check for damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the wheel speed sensor (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Perform an initial visual inspection to check for damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion around the wheel speed sensor (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to conduct an OBD2 scan to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data, helping to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to conduct an OBD2 scan to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data, helping to understand the context of the fault (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test the wheel speed sensor using a multimeter to check resistance and voltage output (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test the wheel speed sensor using a multimeter to check resistance and voltage output (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: Conduct a system function test to verify proper operation post-repair and clear any codes present (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: Conduct a system function test to verify proper operation post-repair and clear any codes present (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to ensure that the repair was successful (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Take the vehicle for a road test under various conditions to ensure that the repair was successful (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Faulty Wheel Speed Sensor in a 2015 Ford Fusion
Vehicle: 2015 Ford Fusion, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported the ABS light was on, and the vehicle felt unstable during heavy braking.
Diagnosis: After scanning the vehicle with the GeekOBD APP, C0013 was confirmed. A visual inspection revealed a damaged wheel speed sensor.
Solution: Replaced the faulty wheel speed sensor and cleared the DTC. Conducted a function test, and all systems operated normally.
Cost: $150 (sensor + labor)
Result: The customer reported no further issues, and the vehicle's performance improved significantly.
Case Study 2: Wiring Issues in a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, 60,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced intermittent ABS activation and a check engine light.
Diagnosis: Using the GeekOBD APP, C0013 was detected. Further inspection revealed corroded wiring leading to the wheel speed sensor.
Solution: Repaired the wiring and replaced the connector. Cleared the codes and confirmed the repairs were effective.
Cost: $100 (wiring repair + labor)
Result: The vehicle returned to normal functioning with no further DTCs present.