C0245: How to Diagnose & Fix — Wheel Speed Sensor Frequency Malfunction
2 vehicles · 1 makes · $180-$1,200 repair
How to diagnose and fix C0245: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Chevrolet Colorado · 2004–2012
Colorado owners frequently report ABS warning lights, stored wheel speed sensor faults, and low-speed unwanted ABS activation, especially in rust-belt trucks. Corrosion at the front hub sensor mounting area or failing hub-integrated wheel speed sensors can create an erratic signal that the ABS module interprets as wheel slip. This issue is widely documented across GM midsize trucks and often shows up as pulsation or extended stopping distance at parking-lot speeds.
Common Symptoms
- ABS light on
- brake pedal pulsation at low speed
- unwanted ABS activation
- traction control light on
- longer stopping distance
- intermittent wheel speed sensor codes
How to Fix
Scan the EBCM for wheel speed sensor data and compare all four wheel speeds during a slow stop. If one front sensor drops out, inspect the hub bearing assembly, sensor wiring, and corrosion under the sensor mounting surface; many repairs involve replacing the front hub assembly and cleaning the mounting area. If multiple communication or module faults are present, the ABS module and grounds should also be checked.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet Equinox · 2007–2009
A known safety issue on later first-generation Equinox models involves corrosion in the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV), which can cause the ABS to activate improperly at low speeds. Owners report a sudden buzzing pedal, unexpected increase in stopping distance, and the vehicle seeming to roll through a stop on dry pavement. This problem was serious enough to trigger a GM safety recall in salt-belt states.
Common Symptoms
- ABS activates at low speed on dry pavement
- buzzing brake pedal
- extended stopping distance
- unexpected pedal pulsation
- ABS warning light in some cases
How to Fix
Diagnosis includes scanning the ABS module, checking wheel speed sensor data, and inspecting whether the vehicle falls under the recall population. The recall remedy involved installing a corrosion-resistant protective coating and, in some cases, replacing the BPMV. If the recall has not been completed, owners should verify VIN status with GM or NHTSA immediately.
Sources for this issue (1)
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C0245 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C0245 mean?
C0245 stands for "Wheel Speed Sensor Frequency Malfunction." C0245 is a chassis/brake code (predominantly GM) meaning the electronic brake control module received an erratic or irrational frequency signal from a wheel speed sensor compared with the other wheels. It often sets when the module cannot pinpoint which specific sensor is at fault, and on some GM trucks/SUVs it is tied to a known EBCM internal solder-joint failure. Because wheel speed signals feed ABS, traction, and stability control, these systems may be disabled while the code is active, though base braking still works.
What are the most common causes of C0245?
The most common causes of C0245 are: Faulty wheel speed sensor, Damaged sensor wiring or connector, Corroded or damaged tone ring / reluctor, Metal debris or contamination on the sensor, Internal EBCM/ABS module fault (cracked solder joints on GM), Wheel bearing with integrated sensor failing, Excessive air gap or sensor mounting issue. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C0245?
Repair costs for C0245 range from $180 to $1,200, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by C0245?
Au7o has documented C0245 across 2 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Chevrolet.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.