What Does C1205 Mean?
The ABS module has detected a short-to-ground condition on the rear outlet valve solenoid coil circuit. The solenoid circuit is making unwanted contact with chassis ground, preventing the ABS module from properly controlling the rear outlet valve. ABS is disabled and the ABS warning light is on. Normal braking is unaffected.
Common Causes
35%
Wiring harness insulation worn through where the rear outlet valve circuit contacts a grounded body panel or bracket
30%
Internal short to ground within the rear outlet valve solenoid coil due to moisture intrusion into the modulator
20%
Water intrusion or corrosion in the ABS modulator connector creating a conductive path to ground
15%
ABS electronic control module internal ground fault on the rear outlet valve driver circuit
Diagnostic Steps
1
Disconnect the ABS modulator connector. Measure the rear outlet valve solenoid coil resistance (spec: 3-6 ohms). Then check each solenoid pin to chassis ground; any low resistance reading (under 10K ohms) indicates an internal short to ground.
2
If the solenoid tests normal, disconnect the ABS module connector and measure each rear outlet valve wire to ground. Near-zero ohms confirms a harness-level short.
3
Inspect the wiring harness, focusing on areas where it routes near the frame, body panels, or engine components. Look for flattened, pinched, or abraded sections.
4
Check the modulator connector for standing water, corrosion, or debris bridging between terminal pins and the connector housing.
5
Repair or replace the damaged wiring. Clear codes and perform a road test with ABS activation to confirm the repair.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $1,200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ABS module has detected a short-to-ground condition on the rear outlet valve solenoid coil circuit. The solenoid circuit is making unwanted contact with chassis ground, preventing the ABS module from properly controlling the rear outlet valve. ABS is disabled and the ABS warning light is on. Nor...
The most common cause of C1205 (ABS Outlet Valve Coil Rear Circuit Short To Ground) is: Wiring harness insulation worn through where the rear outlet valve circuit contacts a grounded body panel or bracket
Typical repair costs for C1205 range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Standard braking remains available but ABS is disabled. Rear wheels may lock during aggressive braking, especially on low-friction surfaces, increasing the risk of the rear end sliding. Avoid aggressive driving and have the system repaired soon.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1205 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
ABS / Traction Control
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
Recommended Tools
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