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C1990ModerateSafety

C1990 on 2003-2017 Ford Expedition — Forward Collision Warning System Fault

1 vehicles · 1 makes · $300-$1,500 repair

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Most Reported On

2003-2017Ford Expedition

C1990 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Forward Collision Warning System Fault.” C1990 is a safety-system code indicating a fault in the Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system, which uses a front-facing camera and/or radar to watch for vehicles or obstacles ahead and alert you to a potential crash. The module sets this code when it loses confidence in the system's ability to detect threats reliably, often because a sensor is blocked, misaligned, miscommunicating, or reporting a fault. It generally means the collision-warning (and often automatic emergency braking) features are disabled until repaired. The car still drives normally, but the safety alert function is offline. This code is most commonly reported on 2003-2017 Ford Expedition, with repair costs ranging from $300 to $1,500.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (1)
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Common Causes

1Obstructed radar or camera (ice, snow, mud, dirt, bug debris, sticker)
2Misaligned front radar sensor or windshield camera after impact or service
3Faulty forward-facing camera or radar module
4Damaged or corroded wiring/connector to the FCW sensor
5Communication (CAN bus) fault between the FCW module and other systems
6Low battery voltage or charging-system problem
7Windshield replacement without proper camera recalibration
8Front bumper or grille damage affecting radar aim

Typical Repair Cost

$300 - $1,500

Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose C1990, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

  • Read & clear engine codes
  • View freeze frame data
  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
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Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
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  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (1)

Ford C1990 page →
ExpeditionModerate

Air Suspension Compressor Failure and Rear Sag

2003-2017$300-$1,5003,800 reports

Related Codes (6)

C1991Lane Departure Warning System FaultB0100Electronic Frontal Sensor 1 MalfunctionB0101Electronic Frontal Sensor 2 MalfunctionB0102Electronic Side Sensor MalfunctionC1980Adaptive Cruise Control Sensor BlockedU1118Lost Communication (Manufacturer Specific - SRS)

FAQ

What does C1990 mean?

C1990 stands for "Forward Collision Warning System Fault." C1990 is a safety-system code indicating a fault in the Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system, which uses a front-facing camera and/or radar to watch for vehicles or obstacles ahead and alert you to a potential crash. The module sets this code when it loses confidence in the system's ability to detect threats reliably, often because a sensor is blocked, misaligned, miscommunicating, or reporting a fault. It generally means the collision-warning (and often automatic emergency braking) features are disabled until repaired. The car still drives normally, but the safety alert function is offline.

What are the most common causes of C1990?

The most common causes of C1990 are: Obstructed radar or camera (ice, snow, mud, dirt, bug debris, sticker), Misaligned front radar sensor or windshield camera after impact or service, Faulty forward-facing camera or radar module, Damaged or corroded wiring/connector to the FCW sensor, Communication (CAN bus) fault between the FCW module and other systems, Low battery voltage or charging-system problem, Windshield replacement without proper camera recalibration, Front bumper or grille damage affecting radar aim. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix C1990?

Repair costs for C1990 range from $300 to $1,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by C1990?

Au7o has documented C1990 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Ford.

Sources (1)

  • videoYouTube - Air Suspension Compressor Replacement on Ford Expedition by 1A Auto

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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