What Does C1700 Mean?
The suspension control module has detected a complete failure of the left rear sensor circuit. The module is unable to receive any valid signal from the left rear ride height or position sensor. This is a more severe condition than a simple fault — the circuit may be open, shorted to ground, or the sensor is completely non-functional. The driver will notice a ride control warning light, and the suspension system will operate in a degraded default mode.
Common Causes
35%
Left rear ride height sensor physically damaged or internally failed (open circuit in sensing element)
30%
Open circuit in the wiring harness due to a broken wire, pulled-out terminal, or disconnected connector
20%
Severe corrosion or water damage at the sensor connector causing complete signal loss
15%
Sensor mounting bracket broken causing the sensor to disconnect from its actuating linkage
Diagnostic Steps
1
Visually inspect the left rear ride height sensor — confirm it is physically present, properly mounted, and the actuating link arm is connected and not broken.
2
Check the sensor connector for being fully seated. Inspect for water intrusion, corrosion, or damaged terminals. Measure supply voltage at the sensor connector (typically 5V reference) to confirm the module is powering the circuit.
3
With the sensor connected, measure the signal output voltage while manually cycling the suspension through its travel range — should vary between approximately 0.5V and 4.5V. No signal or fixed 0V indicates an open or ground short.
4
If no supply voltage is present at the sensor, check the wiring harness from the module to the sensor for continuity on all three wires (supply, signal, ground) using an ohmmeter.
5
If the sensor, wiring, and connector all test good, the module input circuit may be damaged — check for a blown internal fuse or damaged input driver in the control module.
Estimated Repair Cost
$100 - $550
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The suspension control module has detected a complete failure of the left rear sensor circuit. The module is unable to receive any valid signal from the left rear ride height or position sensor. This is a more severe condition than a simple fault — the circuit may be open, shorted to ground, or the ...
The most common cause of C1700 (Left Rear Sensor Circuit Failure) is: Left rear ride height sensor physically damaged or internally failed (open circuit in sensing element)
Typical repair costs for C1700 range from $100 to $550, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The left rear suspension position is unknown to the control module. The system will default to a fixed, typically firm damping setting. The vehicle is drivable for short distances, but the suspension will not adapt to road conditions, reducing comfort and potentially affecting handling stability on uneven surfaces.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1700 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Suspension / Ride Control
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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