C0031 on Ford: How to Diagnose & Fix
Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
1 Ford model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $120-$650 repair
C0031 on Ford by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Transit Connect owners report intermittent ABS and traction control warnings caused by wheel speed sensor signal dropouts, often due to sensor contamination, corrosion at connectors, or damaged wiring near the hubs. The issue can be intermittent and may also disable stability control functions until repaired. This pattern appears in NHTSA complaints and owner reports describing ABS/AdvanceTrac warnings and sensor replacement.
Common Symptoms
- ABS warning light illuminated
- Traction control/AdvanceTrac warning
- ABS activates unexpectedly at low speed (sometimes)
- Speedometer fluctuation (rare)
- Stored wheel speed sensor DTCs
How to Fix
Scan ABS module for wheel speed sensor DTCs and view live wheel speed data to identify the affected corner. Clean/inspect tone rings (if applicable), repair wiring/connectors, or replace the wheel speed sensor; clear codes and verify on a road test.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- ABS Wheel Speed SensorCross-refSS20881
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
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Sources for this issue (1)
C0031 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C0031 mean on a Ford?
C0031 stands for "Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit." C0031 is a chassis/brake code indicating a fault in the left front wheel speed sensor circuit. The ABS module relies on this sensor to measure individual wheel rotation for anti-lock braking, traction control, and stability control; when it detects an open, short, or implausible signal it sets this code. The ABS, traction control, and stability control warning lights typically illuminate and those systems may be temporarily disabled, while normal (non-ABS) braking usually still works. On Ford it is documented across 1 model: Transit Connect.
What are the most common causes of C0031?
The most common causes of C0031 are: Failed left front wheel speed sensor, Damaged sensor wiring or chafed harness, Corroded or loose sensor connector, Damaged or contaminated tone/reluctor ring (metal debris, rust), Excessive sensor-to-ring air gap or wheel bearing play, ABS control module fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C0031 on a Ford?
Published repair estimates on Ford range from $120 to $650 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for C0031 on a different make?
View C0031 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.