Q: Is it safe to drive with C1496 active?

Medium risk — traction and stability control may be disabled. Avoid aggressive driving.

Q: How much does it cost to fix C1496?

Repair costs typically range $150–$600. DIY diagnosis with a multimeter can save on labor.

Q: Will the warning light go off on its own?

If the fault is intermittent, the light may turn off after several drive cycles. However, the underlying issue should still be addressed. ---

This diagnostic article is an original guide created by AIscanAuto for educational and troubleshooting purposes. The technical information about OBD2 DTC codes is based on publicly available automotive diagnostic standards and industry best practices. External links provided are for additional reading and context only — they do not imply endorsement or ownership of third-party content. All repair procedures should be performed by qualified technicians.

DTC C1496: C1496 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Open: Causes, Symptoms & Fix

The C1496 OBD2 fault code relates to the Traction Control Motor Potentiometer circuit. This is part of the vehicle's chassis control system. When a circuit open occurs circuit, the control module cannot properly monitor or regulate this system, which may affect braking, traction, stability, or suspension performance. At AIscanAuto, we help drivers quickly identify OBD2 trouble codes, understand their root causes, and find the right fix — with AI-powered diagnostics that go beyond basic code read

C1496 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Open: Causes, Symptoms & Fix

The C1496 OBD2 fault code relates to the Traction Control Motor Potentiometer circuit. This is part of the vehicle's chassis control system. When a circuit open occurs circuit, the control module cannot properly monitor or regulate this system, which may affect braking, traction, stability, or suspension performance.

At AIscanAuto, we help drivers quickly identify OBD2 trouble codes, understand their root causes, and find the right fix — with AI-powered diagnostics that go beyond basic code reading.

Symptoms

Traction control light on
Stability control disabled
Suspension feels different
Vehicle may feel unstable
Possible warning chime

Common Causes

Faulty component — internal damage or wear affecting the Traction Control Motor Potentiometer
Wiring issues — broken, corroded, or chafed wires in the circuit
Connector problems — loose, oxidized, or moisture-damaged pins
an open circuit is detected — indicates a break in the circuit path, resulting in no signal transmission
Control module fault — rare, but the chassis control module may have an internal fault

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

Scan with OBD2 tool — Confirm C1496 is active. Check for additional chassis DTCs.
Visual inspection — Examine the Traction Control Motor Potentiometer wiring and connector for corrosion or damage.
Check voltage and ground — Use a multimeter to verify proper reference voltage.
Test component — Compare readings to factory specs. A stuck or erratic signal confirms failure.
Check for shorts/opens — Perform continuity tests on the wiring between the component and control module.

Repair & Solutions

If the component is defective, replace the Traction Control Motor Potentiometer with an OEM or quality aftermarket part.
Repair any damaged wiring or connectors using proper methods.
Clear the DTC with an OBD2 scanner and test drive to verify the code does not return.
If the code persists after component replacement, inspect the control module connector or consider module testing.

Related Codes

C1493 — Manufacturer Controlled DTC
C1494 — Manufacturer Controlled DTC
C1495 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Failure

DTC C1496: C1496 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Open: Causes, Symptoms & Fix

C1496 Diagnostic Trouble Code

DTC C1496: C1496 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Open: Causes, Symptoms & Fix

C1496 — Traction Control Motor Potentiometer Circuit Open: Causes, Symptoms & Fix

Symptoms

Common Causes

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

Repair & Solutions

Related Codes

External References & Code-Specific Resources