What C0050 means
The ABS control module has detected a fault in the right rear wheel speed sensor circuit.
How the engine computer detects it
Loss of wheel speed information disables ABS and stability control, and a separate ABS warning lamp is illuminated.
Written from public technical sources and not yet checked by a mechanic. How we write these pages
Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- Wheel speed sensor failed Most likely
- Tone ring damaged or contaminated Possible
- Wiring break or chafe under chassis Possible
- Wheel hub bearing with integrated sensor ring failed Less likely
How to diagnose C0050
- Read every stored code with an OBD-II scanner. If misfire or fuel trim codes are there too, fix those first: they often cause this one.
- Inspect the parts involved: wheel speed sensor, abs control module, tone ring, sensor wiring.
- Work through the causes above from most to least likely, cheapest checks first.
- Clear the code and drive a full drive cycle to confirm the repair held.
Vehicles that report C0050 most
| Vehicle | Years | Reports | Share | Median miles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee L | 2021–2023 | 4 | — |
Counts of owner complaints to the NHTSA that mention C0050 (6 in total), not failure rates: popular models get more complaints simply because more of them are on the road. Models with fewer than 3 complaints are left out.
Reading the code
- C
- Chassis
- 0
- Generic (SAE) code
- 050
- Specific fault
Questions drivers ask
Can I drive with code C0050?
Usually yes, carefully. Your hydraulic brakes normally keep working, but ABS, traction and stability control may be off, so the wheels can lock in a hard stop. If the red brake warning light is on, the pedal feels soft or different, or the car takes longer to stop, don't drive: have it towed.
Can I fix C0050 myself?
Often yes, with an OBD-II scanner and basic tools. Difficulty: medium. Start with the cheapest checks before replacing expensive parts.
Often reported together
Codes that owners mention in the same NHTSA complaints as C0050. They can point to a shared cause, so it's worth checking them together.
- C2227Manufacturer-specific code3 complaints
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Repair costs are rough estimates for parts and labor and vary by vehicle and region.