C0843 - Understanding Common Issues in 2015-2018 Ford Explorer and Similar Models

Quick Answer

C0843 means: DTC C0843 indicates a malfunction within the wheel speed sensor circuit.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with C0843? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe vehicle operation.

Common Questions

What does C0843 mean and how does it affect my car?

C0843 indicates an issue with your vehicle's wheel speed sensor. This can lead to problems with your ABS, affecting your braking performance and overall vehicle safety. If left unchecked, it can cause more severe braking issues.

What are the most common causes of C0843 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty wheel speed sensor, damaged wiring, or ABS module issues. Repair costs can range from $150 to $300, depending on the exact nature of the problem.

Can I drive my car with C0843 or should I stop immediately?

It's not advisable to drive with a C0843 code as it may compromise your braking ability. It's best to address this issue immediately to ensure safe vehicle operation.

How can I diagnose C0843 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Use the GeekOBD APP to scan for DTCs, review freeze frame data, and monitor live data from the wheel speed sensors. This will help you pinpoint the issue before taking further action.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0843?

Vehicles like the 2015-2018 Ford Explorer, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2017-2019 Nissan Rogue frequently experience the C0843 code. Be sure to check for any recalls or service bulletins related to this issue.

How can I prevent C0843 from happening again?

Regular maintenance checks of your braking system and wheel speed sensors can help prevent C0843. Keeping electrical connections clean and inspecting wiring for wear can also reduce the risk.

What is C0843?

The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) C0843 indicates a problem with the vehicle's wheel speed sensor or the related circuit. This code often signifies that the signal from one of the wheel speed sensors is out of range or that there's a malfunction in the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). For car owners, this can lead to significant issues such as impaired braking performance or an inability to detect wheel lock during hard braking situations. The C0843 code is often triggered in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Ford Explorer, where the wheel speed sensors play a critical role in ensuring proper vehicle stability and control. When this code appears, you may notice the ABS warning light illuminated on your dashboard, which is a signal that the system is not functioning optimally. Ignoring this code can lead to further complications, including the risk of accidents due to compromised braking ability. To address this issue, it's crucial to have a thorough understanding of how the wheel speed sensors operate and what can disrupt their performance, such as damaged wiring, sensor failure, or issues with the ABS control module itself.

System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when C0843 is present:

  • The ABS warning light is illuminated on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction in the braking system.
  • You may feel the brake pedal pulsating or experience a loss of braking control during sudden stops.
  • Increased stopping distances can be observed, likely due to the ABS not engaging properly.
  • You might hear unusual noises coming from the braking system when attempting to slow down.
  • The vehicle may exhibit erratic behavior during acceleration or deceleration, affecting overall driving stability.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of C0843 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause is a faulty wheel speed sensor, which accounts for about 60% of cases. This can be due to wear and tear or exposure to road debris.
  2. A second cause may be damaged wiring or connectors leading to the sensor, affecting the signal transmission to the ABS module.
  3. Additionally, issues with the ABS control module itself can trigger the C0843 code, often due to internal faults or software glitches.
  4. Less commonly, a malfunctioning brake control unit may be responsible, which can be a serious issue affecting braking performance.
  5. Finally, corrosion at the sensor connection points can lead to intermittent failures, although this is rare.

C0843 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty wheel speed sensor with an OEM part to restore proper function.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for C0843
  • 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 C0843 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0843. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wheel speed sensor wiring for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Conduct an initial visual inspection of the wheel speed sensor wiring for any visible damage or corrosion (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve any additional codes and freeze frame data for a comprehensive understanding of the fault (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan and retrieve any additional codes and freeze frame data for a comprehensive understanding of the fault (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Test the suspected wheel speed sensors with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and grounding (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Test the suspected wheel speed sensors with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and grounding (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: After addressing any issues, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and wheel speed sensors are operational (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: After addressing any issues, perform a system function test to ensure the ABS and wheel speed sensors are operational (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Finally, conduct a road test under various driving conditions to verify the repair and check for the reappearance of the DTC C0843 (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Finally, conduct a road test under various driving conditions to verify the repair and check for the reappearance of the DTC C0843 (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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: Resolving ABS Malfunction in 2017 Ford Explorer

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Explorer, 45,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the ABS light was on and braking felt inconsistent.

Diagnosis: Running a diagnostics scan revealed the C0843 code, indicating a faulty wheel speed sensor.

Solution: Replaced the faulty wheel speed sensor and cleared the codes. Conducted a road test to confirm the ABS was functioning properly.

Cost: $250 (sensor $120, labor $130)

Result: The ABS light remained off post-repair, and the customer reported normal braking performance.

Case Study 2: Wheel Sensor Replacement on 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 30,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced a pulsing brake pedal and ABS warning light.

Diagnosis: Diagnostics indicated C0843, linked to a damaged wheel speed sensor.

Solution: Replaced the damaged sensor and checked the wiring for additional issues.

Cost: $200 (sensor $90, labor $110)

Result: After the repair, the customer noted smooth braking without any warning lights.

Diagnose C0843

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: C0843
System: Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Chassis Codes