This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.
Definition
C0035 is an OBD-II Code that refers to Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor
Meaning
A C0035 code is a generic chassis diagnostic trouble code which refers to the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module that monitors the Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor. When the Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor is not to manufacturer specs, the ABS Module generates an OBDII code.
The wheel speed input is typically used in automobile dynamics applications such as anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. These systems are regarded as component of the chassis, thus they are assigned to the C series codes.
Causes
Common causes for this code include:
- Bad left front wheel speed sensor
- Wheel speed sensor is damaged
- Left front wheel speed sensor circuit problems (e.g., damaged wires or poor connections)
- An malfunction with the ABS module
Symptoms
The symptoms of a C0035 code are:
- Check Engine light ON
- The anti-lock brake system’s warning lamp on the dashboard illuminates
- The dashboard display shows incorrect vehicle speed
- There might be little shocks on the brake pedal
Diagnosis
To diagnose a C0035 DTC code, a technician would:
- Scan for codes in the ECM and look at the freeze frame data
- Use a Digital Volt/Ohm Meter (DVOM) to measure the voltage across the terminals of the Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor
- (a.k.a. ABS Input Shaft Speed Sensor). Compare this reading with specified values in an appropriate service manual for your vehicle model
- Test Real Time (especially during driving)- check the speedometer against the actual road speed.
- The ABS module will be checked for proper operation using a scan tool. Also turn OFF the ignition and disconnect the battery negative cable to clear all DTCs if necessary.
- Assemble everything back together again before you start your car
Common mistakes
The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a C0035 code:
- Not properly identifying the cause of the problem when using Freeze Frame Data
- Not using a DVOM when testing sensors
- Forgetting to check for proper operation of the ABS module using a scan tool
- Using an analog multimeter rather than a digital multimeter
- Failing to not consider other codes before proceeding with diagnosing a C0035 code.
How serious is this?
A C0035 code is considered to be a medium-high priority diagnostic trouble code. It’s likely to be a problem with the wheel speed sensor, so replacement of any damaged sensors is recommended. However, on the road, it’s likely to cause present drivability problems.
What repairs can fix the code?
The following are solutions that may fix this problem:
- Replace faulty connectors, wires, and circuit connections of the Wheel Speed Sensor
- Verify that these voltages are within the range determined by the manufacturer in their specification’s repairs if necessary
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to perform an advanced diagnostic of the left front wheel sensor.
- Replace Wheel Speed Sensor
Related codes
A C0035 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:
C0040 – Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor
C0041 – Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
C0042 – Left Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage
C0045 – Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor
C004A- Right Front Wheel Speed Sensor “A” Circuit
Conclusion
In conclusion, the C0035 code is a Vehicle Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Module which monitors the Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor. When this wheel speed input is not at manufacturer specs, it generates an OBDII code of C0035. You should look into possible causes of this code, which include bad wheel speed sensors and damaged left front wheel speed sensor circuits.
A C0035 code is an ABS problem that you can usually fix by replacing the related part.