ABS and brakes code
C0045: Left rear wheel speed sensor signal fault
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $40 | $120 |
| Labor: 0.7 to 1.2 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $88 | $210 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $120 | $360 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
This is the range for the most common fix, wheel speed sensor replacement. Which repair your car needs depends on a proper diagnosis.
The ABS computer is not getting a good speed signal from the left rear wheel. On many cars that sensor reads a ring on the axle or hub, and rust, grime or a bad wire can disturb it. Most makes use this code for that sensor circuit, though a few use it differently, so confirm it.
- Safe to drive?
- Short trips only
- Most common cause
- Dirty or damaged wheel speed sensor
Normal brakes usually still work, but without ABS help the wheels can lock in a hard stop, so leave extra room and brake early. Get it checked soon.
What you may notice
- ABS light on
- Traction or stability control light on
- Stability control turned off
- Speedometer or cruise control acting up on some cars
Common causes, most likely first
- Dirty or damaged wheel speed sensor
- Broken or chafed sensor wire
- Worn wheel bearing or damaged tone ring
- Corroded connector
- Failed ABS module (less common)
Check this first
Check the left rear sensor and wire for rust, damage or a loose plug, and look at the tone ring on the axle or hub. On rear-drive cars, also check the wire where it passes the brake backing plate or axle.
Other repairs that sometimes fix C0045
| Repair | Typical range, Boston |
|---|---|
| Wheel bearing / hub replacement (one wheel) | $260 to $820 |
| ABS control module repair or replacement | $550 to $1,775 |
| Diagnostic scan (check engine light) | $60 to $290 |
Before you pay
- Ask the shop what test showed this part is the cause, not just that the code appeared.
- Ask for parts and labor listed separately, and for the hours.
- Ask for a written OK before any extra work. Massachusetts rules require written authorization before repairs.
Got a quote already? Check it against the range. Want to see if your car has a recall tied to this problem? Check recalls by VIN.
Need to read a code yourself? OBD-II scanners on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure).
C0045 questions
Can I pass inspection with this code?
A lit ABS light fails inspection in many states, but rules vary. Check yours, and plan to fix it before the test is due.
Will the brakes still work?
Yes, the regular brakes still work. The ABS and stability help are off, so be careful on wet or icy roads, and leave extra stopping room.
Is it just the sensor?
Often, but a worn rear bearing or a damaged tone ring at the left rear can cause the same code. A shop should check that hub area so the repair addresses the real cause.
How much does it cost to fix C0045?
The most common fix, wheel speed sensor replacement, has a typical range of $120 to $360 in Boston. It is an estimate built from parts prices and local labor wages, not a quote. Your car and shop change it.
Related codes
- C0035: Left front wheel speed sensor signal fault
- C0040: Right front wheel speed sensor signal fault
- C0031: Left front wheel speed sensor signal fault
More abs and brakes codes
Code meaning written in our own words. Some codes mean different things on different makes, so check your scan tool or manual. Not a repair shop, estimates only.