What does it mean?
C1457 is a Chassis (ABS, traction control, steering) fault code. It indicates: AWD-Clutch-Power-Control-Circuit-HI .
Symptoms
- AWD or 4WD warning lamp on continuously, system inactive
- No drive to the secondary axle; the vehicle behaves as two wheel drive
- Poor traction when pulling away on a slippery surface
- No clutch engagement noise or change in behaviour when the system should apply
- Code returns immediately after clearing without any driving
Likely causes
- Open circuit in the clutch coil supply or control wire, often a conductor broken inside the insulation
- Disconnected or loose connector at the AWD coupling, sometimes after underbody service
- Corroded terminals creating very high resistance
- Internally open clutch coil winding
- Short to battery voltage where the harness has rubbed against a live circuit or the body
- Blown fuse in the clutch supply circuit
- Failed module output driver leaving the circuit unloaded
How to fix it
- Confirm the circuit reads high or open on live data with the ignition on
- Inspect the coupling connector for pushed back pins, corrosion and a broken lock tab
- Measure the coil resistance; an infinite reading proves an open winding
- Check continuity from the module connector to the coupling on both wires
- With the module unplugged, look for battery voltage on the control wire, which confirms a short to power
- Check the fuse and supply feed for the AWD circuit
- Repair the wiring or replace the coil or coupling, then command engagement with a scan tool to verify