AutoCodesToyota – C146D Toyota

C146D Toyota Code - Short in ABS Motor Relay Circuit

Quick Answer

The Motor Relay and motor fail-safe relay are built into the Brake Actuator Assembly. Common causes include Faulty Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly), Skid Control ECU harness is open or shorted, Skid Control ECU circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
C146D Toyota indicates Short in ABS Motor Relay Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly), Skid Control ECU harness is open or shorted, Skid Control ECU circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 4,080
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 29, 2023
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Code C146D Toyota Description

The Motor Relay and motor fail-safe relay are built into the Brake Actuator Assembly. During ABS, TRAC, VSC, brake hold, or brake assist operation, the Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly) turns on the motor relay to run the pump motor in the Brake Actuator Assembly. When a motor system Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored, the motor fail-safe relay cuts the power source supply to the motor relay for fail-safe operation.
This DTC may be stored when the voltage to the motor relay power source is lower than the DTC detection condition due to low output from the battery or alternator.
OBDII Code C146D Toyota - Short in ABS Motor Relay Circuit - AutoCodes.com
C146D Toyota Code - Short in ABS Motor Relay Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C146D Toyota?

  • Faulty Skid Control ECU (Brake Actuator Assembly)
  • Skid Control ECU harness is open or shorted
  • Skid Control ECU circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C146D Toyota?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C146D Toyota code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C146D Toyota code?

Need more information on how to fix the C146D Toyota code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Toyota Models

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C146D Toyota Code

1. What does OBDII code C146D mean on a Toyota?

C146D indicates a short in the ABS motor relay circuit, which is part of the Anti-lock Braking System.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C146D on a Toyota?

Symptoms may include the ABS warning light on, reduced braking performance, or the ABS system not functioning properly.

3. What causes the C146D code to appear in a Toyota vehicle?

Common causes include a shorted ABS motor relay, damaged wiring or connectors in the ABS motor circuit, or a faulty ABS motor assembly.

4. Can I still drive my Toyota with code C146D?

You can drive the vehicle, but the ABS system may not function, increasing the risk of wheel lock-up during hard braking.

5. How do I diagnose the C146D code on a Toyota?

Start by inspecting the ABS motor relay, wiring, and connectors for damage or shorts. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage and continuity in the circuit.

6. How is the C146D code repaired?

Repairs may involve replacing the ABS motor relay, repairing damaged wiring, or replacing the ABS motor assembly if necessary.

7. Where is the ABS motor relay located in a Toyota?

The ABS motor relay is typically located in the engine compartment fuse box. Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for the exact location.

8. How much does it cost to fix code C146D in a Toyota?

The repair cost can vary, but replacing the ABS motor relay typically costs $50–$150, while more extensive repairs to wiring or the ABS motor assembly can be several hundred dollars.

9. Can a weak battery cause code C146D on a Toyota?

A weak or failing battery can potentially cause electrical issues, but it is not a common cause of this specific code.

10. Do I need to clear the C146D code after repairs?

Yes, after completing repairs, use an OBDII scanner to clear the code and verify that it does not return.

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