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C1246 Diagnostic Code on 1999 Chevrolet Venture (3.4L V6) with ABS and Brake Warning Lights

Model: 99 Venture Fault Code: C1246 Posted: 2007-06-28 04:36

Hello, I live in Belgium and own a 1999 Chevrolet Venture (locally known as a 'Chevrolet Transsport') equipped with a 3.4L V6 engine. Recently, the ABS, traction control (TC), and brake warning lights have come on simultaneously. I took it to a mechanic who scanned the vehicle and retrieved code C1246, which reads: "Rear ABS channel will not move". This indicates that the rear ABS module is unable to adjust or function properly in one of its channels. I suspect the ABS control module may be faulty. A few weeks ago, the warning lights activated. After a basic inspection, we discovered that the rear right brake was not responding at all—while the front brakes worked normally. We initially suspected a clogged brake line, so we inspected all connections from the calipers to the ABS module. During this process, we found that the ABS module was completely blocking hydraulic fluid flow to the rear-right brake cylinder—even when the ignition was off. After several days, the brake pedal unexpectedly became fully soft and went all the way down. Bleeding the rear-right brake line resolved the issue. We believe the ABS module may have suddenly unblocked the line, allowing air to enter the system due to our prior disconnection. Given this history, I now suspect a failing ABS control module. However, I’d like to confirm whether there are any electrical or hydraulic circuit issues that could be causing this behavior before concluding it’s a failed module. Any insights on how to diagnose these circuits (electrical or hydraulic) would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help! Best regards, Dieter

Related fault codes
C1246
Comments (6)
Anonymous 2007-06-28 07:39

Before replacing the ABS module, it's essential to verify both electrical and hydraulic circuits. A faulty module is unlikely—this issue may stem from a wiring or fluid-related problem.

Anonymous 2007-06-28 12:51

Yes, this is an expensive part. I’d like to clarify: the ABS module was found to be completely blocking fluid flow to the rear-right brake—even when the ignition was off. After bleeding that line, the pedal became soft again. We believe the module may have unblocked the line and allowed air into the system due to prior disconnection. This suggests a potential internal failure in the ABS module. However, I’d like to know how to properly test the electrical circuits—does this refer to wiring or signal transmission from the ECM? Any guidance on diagnosing this would be helpful. Thanks again, Dieter.

Anonymous 2007-06-28 12:55

The issue is specifically with the electrical circuits—the signals sent from the ECU to the ABS module and the feedback loops.

Anonymous 2007-07-04 17:42

Thanks, Jeff! For my OBD-II truck, I use a homemade electrical circuit that converts ECM signals into serial data, allowing me to log data via a laptop using free software. Is this feasible for OBD-II systems? It doesn’t have to be free, but I’m on a tight budget. Being able to read codes myself would save me €25 per visit to the shop. Any recommendations for affordable DIY solutions would be appreciated. Thanks again, Dieter

Anonymous 2007-09-11 20:11

First, check for any brake fluid leaks in the rear brake system or brake lines. Ensure the fluid level is stable and consistent. If no leaks are present, try purging all brake fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid—air bubbles can cause erratic braking behavior and make troubleshooting difficult.

Anonymous 2007-09-12 08:19

Moved to P1XXX