C1143 code — how to fix error fast

Out of all the OBD2 codes, those like C1143 is the worst kind you may get due to all the safety implications it could have. If you happen to read this code, it takes skill and patience to figure it out, but the most important thing is to know more about the C1143 code meaning.

So, our team will give you an overview of all the possible reasons that could potentially be behind this code, as well as what you can do to fix and prevent it. We’ll talk about how this code affects your car’s braking system and mention a few methods of permanently fixing and removing the code.

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What does the C1143 code mean?

The C1143 code is a trouble code that indicates a problem with the ABS hydraulic circuit. The ABS system is designed to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, which can cause skidding and loss of control.

When the C1143 code appears, it means that the ABS hydraulic circuit has a problem, and the system may not function correctly. You may end up struggling with the ABS system that may not activate on time and brake locking on slippery roads could lead to serious safety issues.

What causes the C1143 code?

Several factors can cause the C1143 code to appear on a vehicle’s ABS system. One of the most common causes is a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor. Other potential causes include a damaged ABS control module, a defective ABS pump, or a malfunctioning hydraulic control unit. Let’s explore each of these causes in more detail.

Malfunctioning wheel speed sensor

The wheel speed sensor measures the speed of each wheel and sends the information to the ABS control module. If one of the sensors is malfunctioning or sending incorrect information, it can cause the ABS system to malfunction and trigger the code.

Damaged ABS control module

The ABS control module is the brain of the ABS system. It receives information from the wheel speed sensors and sends signals to the ABS pump and hydraulic control unit. If the control module is damaged or malfunctioning, it can cause the ABS system to malfunction and trigger the C1143 code.

Defective ABS pump

The ABS pump is responsible for applying and releasing the brakes during an ABS event. If the pump is defective or malfunctioning, it can cause the ABS system to malfunction and trigger the code.

The malfunctioning hydraulic control unit

The hydraulic control unit regulates the pressure in the brake lines to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking. If the hydraulic control unit is malfunctioning, it can cause the ABS system to malfunction and trigger this code.

Which car models does the C1143 code affect the most?

The code C1143 is so general that it could appear in almost any model of a car. Still, our team received numerous reports of certain car models being more exposed to the code than others, and here’s what we found out to be the cars that are prone to this code after doing our own research:

• Nissan Altima: his model has been known to experience ABS issues, including the C1143 code. Some of the reported symptoms include the ABS warning light turning on and off, loss of traction control, and difficulty stopping the vehicle.
• Nissan Murano: Another Nissan model that has been reported to experience ABS issues. Some drivers have reported that the ABS warning light turns on and stays on, while others have experienced a loss of braking power.
• Infiniti G35: This model has been known to experience various ABS-related issues, including the C1143 code. Symptoms include an illuminated ABS warning light and potential loss of braking power.

How to diagnose the C1143 code

Diagnosing the C1143 code can be a complex process as it requires specialized tools and expertise. Still, it sometimes requires a mixture of both specialized methods and DIY options to diagnose the code and here’s what you can do overall:

Check the ABS system

The first step is to check the ABS system to ensure that the system is functioning correctly. This involves checking the brake fluid level, brake lines, and sensors.

Scan the system

Use a diagnostic scanner to scan the ABS system for any trouble codes, including the C1143 code. The scanner will provide a detailed report on the issue, which will help identify the cause of the problem. If the scan reveals any other code, that can also mean good things since you may get some more insight into what’s causing the code.

Inspect the wheel speed sensors

Inspect the wheel speed sensors for any damage or wear and tear. If the sensors are not working properly, they can’t read the moving speed of the wheel and it doesn’t mean good things for the operation of your car’s ABS system.

Check the ABS control module

Check the ABS control module for any damage or malfunction. If the control module is defective, it will need to be replaced.

Check the ABS pump

The final step is to inspect the ABS pump and if the pump has failed, it takes replacing it with a new one to fix the code. The pump is what keeps the hydraulic pressure of the system and the ABS system can’t properly work without the pump.

How to fix the C1143 code

Fixing the code requires taking proper steps after reading it and discovering the main reason behind the code. So, now that you’ve made the most out of the listed diagnostic methods, you should know what’s causing the code and you can use one of the following solutions:

Replace the wheel speed sensor

If the wheel speed sensor is malfunctioning, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple fix that can be done quickly.

Replace the ABS control module

Replacing the ABS control module can only sort out the code in the case where the module is faulty and it’s the main cause of the trouble. If that’s so, you can rely on the services of a trusted mechanic to replace the faulty component.

Replace the ABS pump

In case the ABS pump is causing the code, you’ll need to have it examined and replaced before clearing it out. Once again, it’s a bit more difficult to repair and you’ll need some professional tools and experience to do it.

How to prevent the C1143 code

Preventing the C1143 code involves routine maintenance of the vehicle’s braking system. Here are some tips to prevent the code after clearing it out:

• Check the brake fluid level
• Inspect the brake fluid
• Replace brake pads regularly
• Perform routine maintenance of the braking system

If you manage to do all these, you’ll be looking at a long period of proper ABS system operation before something goes wrong again.

Our take

As the time comes to sum things up about code C1143, we have to say one thing – failing to deal with this code will almost certainly result in problems with driving safety. So, we hope that our guide will now help you figure it out and clear the code properly before it starts affecting your driving experience.