C1461 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC C1461 – Vehicle Accelerometer Power Circuit Short to Battery

DTC C1461 meaning

DTC C1461 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a short circuit in the vehicle accelerometer power circuit to the battery. This code is specific to the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system and is related to the accelerometer, which is responsible for measuring the vehicle’s acceleration and deceleration. A short to battery suggests that there is an unintended connection between the power circuit and the battery voltage, which can lead to incorrect readings or malfunction of the accelerometer.

DTC C1461 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC C1461 may include:

• Illumination of the check engine light or warning indicator
• Erratic or inaccurate readings from the accelerometer
• Potential issues with traction control or stability control systems
• Unusual vehicle behavior during acceleration or braking

DTC C1461 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC C1461, including:

• Wiring issues such as frayed or damaged wires
• Corrosion or poor connections in the accelerometer power circuit
• Faulty accelerometer sensor
• Short circuits caused by aftermarket modifications or repairs

DTC C1461 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC C1461 can vary depending on the vehicle’s systems affected. While it may not cause immediate safety concerns, it can lead to:

• Reduced performance of stability and traction control systems
• Increased wear on vehicle components due to improper acceleration readings
• Potential for further electrical issues if left unaddressed

How to diagnose DTC C1461

To diagnose DTC C1461, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the C1461 code.
2. Inspect the wiring and connectors related to the accelerometer for damage or corrosion.
3. Check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context.
4. Test the accelerometer sensor for proper operation using a multimeter.
5. Verify the power supply to the accelerometer circuit.

How to fix DTC C1461 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC C1461, follow these steps:

1. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors found during diagnosis.
2. Clean any corroded connections to ensure good electrical contact.
3. If the accelerometer is faulty, replace it with a new unit.
4. Ensure that all connections are secure and properly insulated.
5. Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner and test drive the vehicle to confirm the issue is resolved.

How to erase DTC C1461

To erase DTC C1461, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the vehicle’s 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 codes.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the vehicle to ensure the code does not reappear.