C1288 on Ford
Pressure Transducer Circuit Malfunction
C1288 on Ford vehicles indicates pressure transducer circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Ford models — most commonly on Bronco Sport, Flex. This chassis/brake code indicates a malfunction in the brake pressure transducer (sensor) circuit, which is part of the ABS and stability control system. The pressure transducer measures hydraulic pressure in the brake system so the control module can manage anti-lock braking, traction, and stability functions accurately. The module sets this code when the transducer's signal is missing, out of range, or implausible. Note this code is manufacturer-specific: on many Ford/Mazda/Volvo applications it points to a brake pressure sensor failure (often integrated into the ABS unit), while some other brands use C1288 for a different sensor mismatch — so the exact meaning should be confirmed against the vehicle's service information. It generally results in ABS and stability/traction control being disabled while normal braking remains. Typical repair costs on Ford range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of C1288
- •Faulty brake pressure transducer / pressure sensor
- •Internal fault in the ABS hydraulic control unit (where sensor is integrated)
- •Damaged wiring or connector in the transducer circuit
- •Corrosion or poor contact at the sensor connector
- •Open or short in the sensor circuit
- •Faulty ABS / stability control module
- •Module configuration mismatch after a part replacement (on certain brands)
C1288 on Ford by Model
Ford Bronco Sport(1 issue)
- Rear Differential Overheating (Badlands AWD)2021-2025
The Bronco Sport Badlands and other AWD models with the twin-clutch rear drive unit can overheat during sustained off-road use, towing, or spirited driving. When the rear differential fluid overheats, the system disengages the rear axle to protect the clutch pack, leaving the vehicle in front-wheel-drive only. A "Rear Axle Disconnected" message appears on the dash. The issue is exacerbated in hot weather, steep inclines, and deep sand or mud driving.
Ford Flex(1 issue)
- Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Seal Leaks and AWD System Failure2009-2019
AWD-equipped Ford Flex models suffer from chronic Power Transfer Unit (PTU) seal leaks and eventual PTU failure. The PTU transfers power from the transaxle to the rear driveshaft and is sealed with halfshaft seals that deteriorate over time. When the seals leak, the PTU fluid level drops, causing the unit to overheat and produce metal shavings that destroy the internal gears. Ford issued a TSB acknowledging the problem but never recalled the part. The PTU has no dipstick and the fluid is considered "lifetime" by Ford, meaning most owners never check or change it — leading to premature failure.
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View C1288 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does C1288 mean on Ford?▼
C1288 stands for "Pressure Transducer Circuit Malfunction." This chassis/brake code indicates a malfunction in the brake pressure transducer (sensor) circuit, which is part of the ABS and stability control system. The pressure transducer measures hydraulic pressure in the brake system so the control module can manage anti-lock braking, traction, and stability functions accurately. The module sets this code when the transducer's signal is missing, out of range, or implausible. Note this code is manufacturer-specific: on many Ford/Mazda/Volvo applications it points to a brake pressure sensor failure (often integrated into the ABS unit), while some other brands use C1288 for a different sensor mismatch — so the exact meaning should be confirmed against the vehicle's service information. It generally results in ABS and stability/traction control being disabled while normal braking remains. On Ford specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes C1288 on Ford vehicles?▼
Common causes on Ford: Faulty brake pressure transducer / pressure sensor, Internal fault in the ABS hydraulic control unit (where sensor is integrated), Damaged wiring or connector in the transducer circuit, Corrosion or poor contact at the sensor connector, Open or short in the sensor circuit. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix C1288 on a Ford?▼
Repair costs on Ford range from $300 to $2,500, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Ford models have C1288 documented?▼
Au7o has documented C1288 on 2 Ford models: Bronco Sport, Flex.