C1426 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC C1426 – Damper RR Circuit Short To Battery

DTC C1426 meaning

DTC C1426 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a short circuit in the rear damper circuit to the battery. This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system, which monitors various vehicle components to ensure proper functionality. The rear damper is a critical component of the vehicle’s suspension system, and a short circuit can lead to improper operation of the damper, affecting ride quality and handling.

DTC C1426 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC C1426 may include:

• Warning lights on the dashboard, such as the ABS or traction control light.
• Unusual noises from the suspension system.
• Decreased ride quality or handling issues.
• Inconsistent or erratic behavior of the vehicle’s stability control system.

DTC C1426 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC C1426, including:

• Wiring issues, such as frayed or damaged wires in the rear damper circuit.
• Faulty connectors that may cause poor electrical connections.
• Defective rear damper or actuator.
• Moisture or corrosion in the electrical components.

DTC C1426 seriousness

DTC C1426 is considered a serious issue as it can affect the vehicle’s handling and stability. If left unaddressed, it may lead to further damage to the suspension system or compromise the safety of the vehicle. It is advisable to diagnose and repair the issue promptly to ensure safe operation.

How to diagnose DTC C1426

To diagnose DTC C1426, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the C1426 code.
2. Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the rear damper circuit for any visible damage.
3. Check for continuity in the wiring to ensure there are no breaks or shorts.
4. Test the rear damper and actuator for proper operation.
5. Clear the code and perform a road test to see if the code reappears.

How to fix DTC C1426 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC C1426, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
2. Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors in the rear damper circuit.
3. Replace the rear damper or actuator if they are found to be defective.
4. Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
5. Perform a road test to verify that the issue has been resolved and the code does not return.

How to erase DTC C1426

To erase DTC C1426, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the option to clear or erase trouble codes on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to erase the DTC.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the code does not reappear.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.