OBD-II DTC C1903 – Ride Control RR Shock Actuator Circuit Short To Battery
DTC C1903 meaning
DTC C1903 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a short circuit in the Ride Control Rear Shock Actuator circuit to the battery. This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system, which monitors various vehicle components and systems for faults. The rear shock actuator is responsible for adjusting the suspension system to enhance ride quality and handling. A short to battery suggests that there is an unintended connection between the actuator circuit and the battery voltage, which can lead to improper functioning of the ride control system.
DTC C1903 symptoms
Common symptoms associated with DTC C1903 may include:
- Warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the suspension or ride control light.
- Inconsistent or poor ride quality.
- Unusual noises from the rear suspension area.
- Increased body roll or instability during turns.
- Failure of the ride control system to adjust as intended.
DTC C1903 causes
Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC C1903, including:
- Wiring issues, such as frayed or damaged wires in the actuator circuit.
- Corrosion or poor connections at the actuator or related connectors.
- Faulty rear shock actuator itself.
- Short circuits caused by aftermarket modifications or repairs.
- Issues with the vehicle’s body control module (BCM) or suspension control module.
DTC C1903 seriousness
DTC C1903 is considered a moderate to serious issue. While the vehicle may still be operable, the ride control system’s failure can lead to compromised handling and safety. Ignoring this code can result in further damage to the suspension system and may affect overall vehicle stability, especially during adverse driving conditions.
How to diagnose DTC C1903
To diagnose DTC C1903, follow these steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the C1903 code.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the rear shock actuator for any visible damage or corrosion.
- Check for continuity in the actuator circuit to ensure there are no breaks or shorts.
- Test the rear shock actuator for proper operation using a multimeter.
- Examine the body control module and suspension control module for any fault codes or issues.
How to fix DTC C1903 step-by-step instructions
To fix DTC C1903, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
- Inspect and repair any damaged wiring or connectors in the actuator circuit.
- Replace the rear shock actuator if it is found to be faulty.
- Ensure all connections are secure and free of corrosion.
- Recheck the system for any additional fault codes after repairs.
- Test drive the vehicle to confirm that the ride control system is functioning correctly.
How to erase DTC C1903
To erase DTC C1903, follow these steps:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Turn the ignition key to the “On” position without starting the engine.
- Access the scanner’s menu and select the option to clear or erase trouble codes.
- Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to complete the process.
- 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.