AutoCodes – Generic – C1488

C1488 Code - Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature

Quick Answer

The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Module monitors the Rear Differential Clutch Motor. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor, Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor harness is open or shorted, Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor 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: C1488 indicates Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor, Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor harness is open or shorted, Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor 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 1,242

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code C1488 Description

The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Module monitors the Rear Differential Clutch Motor. The ELSD Module sets the OBDII code when it detects an over temperature at the Rear Differential Clutch Motor.

OBDII Code C1488 - Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature - AutoCodes.com — C1488 Code - Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1488?

Faulty Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor harness is open or shorted
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Motor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Electronic Limited Slip Differential (ELSD) Module

How to Fix the DTC C1488?

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 C1488 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 C1488 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

C1488 Chrysler — Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature
C1488 Dodge — Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature
C1488 Jeep — Rear Differential Clutch Over Temperature

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.