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C0515 — Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit High

Generic OBD-II · all makesChassis

Code C0515 indicates that the right rear wheel speed sensor circuit is reporting a voltage or resistance value higher than the ABS control module expects. This typically signals an open circuit, poor connection, or internal sensor failure rather than a problem with the tone ring or mechanical components. The ABS module uses this sensor data for traction control, stability control, and ABS braking functions.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed right rear wheel speed sensor

The sensor itself has an internal open circuit or degraded Hall-effect element, causing the signal voltage to remain high. This is the most common cause for a circuit-high code.

2. Corroded or damaged wiring connector at the sensor

Corrosion, bent pins, or a pushed-back terminal at the sensor connector creates high resistance or an open circuit, producing the same result as a failed sensor.

3. Chafed or broken wiring between sensor and ABS module

Road debris, heat, or age can damage the wiring harness, causing an open or high-resistance condition on the signal or reference circuit.

4. Water intrusion in harness or connector

Moisture entering the connector or harness can cause corrosion over time, leading to intermittent or persistent high-circuit readings.

5. ABS control module internal fault

Rarely, an internal failure in the ABS module's sensor input circuit can cause a false high-circuit code. This should only be considered after the sensor and all wiring have been verified good.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Visually inspect the right rear wheel speed sensor connector for corrosion, bent pins, or water intrusion, and check the wiring harness for chafing or damage.
  2. Disconnect the sensor connector and measure sensor resistance or output signal per manufacturer specifications to determine if the sensor itself has failed.
  3. Perform a wiggle test on the harness while monitoring live sensor data with a scan tool to check for intermittent signal dropouts.
  4. Back-probe the sensor signal circuit at the ABS module connector to verify continuity and compare readings to specifications.
  5. If the sensor and all wiring test good, check the ABS module connector for pin fitment and corrosion before considering module replacement.
  6. Clear the code and road-test to confirm the repair; if the code returns immediately, recheck circuit integrity before replacing any control module.

Code facts & related codes

SystemChassis
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make
Related codesC0510 — Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor IntermittC0511 — Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor CorrelatiC0512 — Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor CircuitoC0513 — Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor RangeperC0514 — Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit C0516 — Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Intermit

Frequently asked

Can I drive with code C0515?

The vehicle is generally drivable, but ABS and traction/stability control will likely be disabled, reducing safety in hard braking or low-traction situations. Have it diagnosed promptly.

Does C0515 mean I need to replace the ABS module?

No. This code almost always points to the wheel speed sensor or its wiring and connector. Replacing the ABS module should only be considered after the sensor and entire circuit have been tested and confirmed good.

Will a bad tone ring trigger this code?

A damaged tone ring or reluctor ring typically causes an erratic-signal or performance code rather than a circuit-high code. Circuit-high specifically points to an electrical open or high-resistance condition.

Is the right rear wheel speed sensor the same as the ABS sensor?

Yes. The wheel speed sensor is the sensor the ABS module uses to monitor individual wheel speed. On most modern vehicles it is a Hall-effect sensor integrated into the wheel bearing or hub assembly, though some older designs are separate passive sensors.