C1709 GMC Code - Right Rear Center Sensor Circuit Failure
Quick Answer
Parking Aid Systems consist of the following: - Four ultrasonic parking aid sensors (located in the rear bumper) - Parking aid speaker-audible warning tone - Parking Aid Module (PAM) - Parking aid switch The parking aid system detects objects behind the vehicle when the vehicle reverse gear select input to the control module enabled.The PAM does this by calculating the distance to an object by the use of four ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper. Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Sensor, Right Rear Sensor harness is open or shorted to ground, Right Rear Sensor 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
- C1709 GMC indicates Right Rear Center Sensor Circuit Failure.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Right Rear Sensor, Right Rear Sensor harness is open or shorted to ground, Right Rear Sensor 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.
Code C1709 GMC Description
- Four ultrasonic parking aid sensors (located in the rear bumper)
- Parking aid speaker-audible warning tone
- Parking Aid Module (PAM)
- Parking aid switch
The parking aid system detects objects behind the vehicle when the vehicle reverse gear select input to the control module enabled.The PAM does this by calculating the distance to an object by the use of four ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper. The ultrasonic field is emitted in a semicircular area around the rear of the vehicle. The sensors can detect objects approximately 1.8 m (5.9 ft) to the rear of the vehicle, 50 cm (1.6 ft) to the rear side of the vehicle, and 16 cm (6 in) above ground. A 750 kHz variable warning tone is generated from a speaker located inside the rear RH quarter trim panel. The speaker increases its warning tone rate as the vehicle gets closer to an obstacle. When an object is detected within 25 cm (10 in) of the sensors, the warning tone becomes continuous.
The parking aid system is enabled when the vehicle ignition is in RUN and the reverse (R) gear is selected. The parking aid disabled indicator will illuminate for three seconds when the ignition is turned to RUN. The system can be disabled by depressing the parking aid disable switch on the instrument panel. The parking aid system will indicate it is disabled by illuminating the parking aid disabled indicator. The system will always enable when the ignition is turned to RUN, or entry into reverse (R).
The parking aid system will be disabled if a fault is detected in one of the four sensors, the parking aid speaker or the parking aid module. This will be indicated by the parking aid disabled indicator being illuminated.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1709 GMC?
- Faulty Right Rear Sensor
- Right Rear Sensor harness is open or shorted to ground
- Right Rear Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC C1709 GMC?
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 C1709 GMC 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about C1709 GMC Code
1. What does the OBDII code C1709 mean on a GMC?
The code C1709 indicates a "Right Rear Center Sensor Circuit Failure," meaning there’s an issue with the wiring, connection, or sensor responsible for detecting obstacles in the right rear center of the vehicle.
2. What are the symptoms of code C1709 on a GMC?
Common symptoms include malfunctioning parking assist, warning lights on the dashboard, or the parking sensors not detecting obstacles properly.
3. What causes the C1709 code to appear on a GMC?
This code can be caused by a damaged or faulty right rear center sensor, corroded or loose electrical connections, broken wiring, or water intrusion in the sensor.
4. Can I drive my GMC with the C1709 code?
Yes, you can drive with this code, but parking assist functionality may be impaired, increasing the risk of collision when parking.
5. How do I diagnose the C1709 code on a GMC?
Start by inspecting the right rear center sensor and its wiring for visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a scan tool to verify the code and test the sensor's functionality.
6. How do I fix the C1709 code on a GMC?
Repairs may involve replacing the right rear center sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reseating loose connections.
7. How much does it cost to repair the C1709 code on a GMC?
Costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing the sensor typically costs $100-$300, while wiring repairs may cost less if minor.
8. Can a C1709 code clear itself on a GMC?
The code may clear temporarily if the issue is intermittent, but permanent resolution requires addressing the root cause.
9. What tools are needed to fix the C1709 code on a GMC?
Common tools include a diagnostic scan tool, multimeter for testing circuits, and basic hand tools to access and replace the sensor or wiring.
10. Is the C1709 code specific to GMC vehicles?
While C1709 is commonly associated with GMC models, it can appear on other vehicles with similar parking assist systems, but the location and diagnostic process may vary.
Discuss the causes and fixes for C1709 GMC OBDII Code
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