C1708 Code: Meaning, Symptoms, Causes & Fix

Overview

Code C1708 indicates a fault in Right Rear Center Sensor Circuit Short to Vbat, typically within ABS/chassis dynamics and brake control.

Symptoms

chassis warning indicator
reduced stability control performance
longer braking intervention

Common causes

Broken terminal inside harness affecting right rear center sensor circuit short to vbat
Open circuit in wiring
Connector pin damage/corrosion or harness stress near related components

How to diagnose C1708

Confirm C1708 and capture freeze-frame data with a professional scan tool.
Inspect wiring, connectors, and grounds related to right rear center sensor circuit short to vbat for obvious defects.
Use a continuity test from module pin to component to identify opens/high resistance.
Check for related DTCs to identify the root-cause chain before replacing parts.
After repair, clear codes and confirm readiness monitors complete without recurrence.

Severity of code C1708

Moderate: This code is moderate severity: the vehicle may still operate, but fault progression can increase repair cost over time.

Can you drive with C1708?

Most vehicles can be driven short-term with C1708, but postpone heavy load/highway driving until repaired.

If the warning lamp is flashing or drivability/safety is affected, avoid driving and diagnose immediately.

How to fix it (step-by-step)

Repair obvious wiring/connector faults first to prevent repeat parts replacement.
Address the root fault mode (open) in the right rear center sensor circuit short to vbat circuit/system.
Apply the required relearn/adaptation procedure if specified by service information.
Road-test and verify C1708 remains cleared under the conditions that originally set the code.

Fix options

Repair open circuit and secure connector lock.
Clear corrosion and protect terminals.
Clear DTCs and verify with live data and completed drive cycle.

Typical repair cost

$240-$1200

Common mistakes when diagnosing C1708

Replacing parts without verifying voltage, ground, and signal integrity first.
Ignoring related stored/pending codes that indicate upstream faults.
Skipping post-repair verification drive cycle and readiness checks.

C1708 in common vehicles

C1708 appears across makes such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo. Failure patterns differ by platform: wiring routes, software calibration, and component supplier revisions can change root cause.

Frequently asked questions

What causes C1708?

C1708 is commonly set by open faults affecting right rear center sensor circuit short to vbat.

How much does it cost to fix C1708?

For C1708, repair costs are typically $240-$1200 depending on exact root cause, labor rates, and part quality.

Can I clear C1708 without repair?

You can clear C1708 temporarily, but the code usually returns until the underlying fault is corrected.