C1979-13 – Iwe Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)

Ford logoFord-specific code — factory diagnostic data
DTC Data Sheet
CodeC1979-13
Vehicle2011 Ford F-150
ModuleTRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE (TCCM)
Fault typeCircuit Open
Official meaningIwe Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Open

Definition source: Ford factory description. Diagnostic guidance is based on factory-defined fault logic for this code.

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⚠ Scan tool requirement: This is a Ford-specific code. A generic OBD2 reader will retrieve the code but cannot access the module-level data, live PIDs, or bi-directional tests needed for diagnosis. A professional-grade scan tool with Ford coverage is required for complete diagnosis.

C1979-13 Quick Answer

C1979-13 on a 2011 F-150: Iwe Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Open. Ford’s factory diagnostic guidance for this code: GO to PINPOINT TEST AD .

What Does C1979-13 Mean on a 2011 F-150?

The 2011 Ford F-150 uses the TRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE (TCCM) to monitor and diagnose this circuit. C1979-13 is set when the module detects iwe solenoid circuit failure: circuit open. The official meaning per the 2011 F-150 service information is exactly: IWE Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Open.

Symptoms

  • Check engine light or system warning indicator on the instrument cluster
  • Reduced functionality of the affected transfer case control module (tccm) system
  • Possible co-codes from connected modules on the 2011 F-150 CAN bus (HS-CAN/MS-CAN)

Common Causes

  • Fault in the named component, sensor, or actuator circuit
  • Open or shorted wiring in the affected circuit
  • Connector corrosion or backed-out terminal
  • Loss of supply voltage or ground at the affected device
  • Module internal fault (rare — verify wiring and supplies first)

Ford-Recommended Diagnostic Action

Per the 2011 Ford F-150 service information for C1979-13:

GO to PINPOINT TEST AD .

Pinpoint test references above are Ford F-150 service-manual chart numbers. Refer to the corresponding chart in the Ford 2011 F-150 Workshop Manual for step-by-step diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Approach

For C1979-13 on the 2011 Ford F-150 you’ll need a scan tool that supports the TCCM on the 2011 F-150, plus a digital multimeter and the 4WD/transfer-case wiring diagram.

  1. Verify the code is current rather than just stored history. Use the scan tool’s self-test on the TRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE (TCCM).
  2. Read freeze-frame data and any related codes. Modules sharing CAN bus segments often log overlapping faults.
  3. Inspect the connector at the device named in the code description. Wiggle-test the connector while monitoring live data to expose intermittent faults.
  4. Measure supply voltage and ground integrity at the affected device with the engine running.
  5. Follow the Ford-recommended action above — including any pinpoint-test reference — for procedure-level diagnosis.
  6. If supplies are clean and the connector is sound, isolate the device with a known-good substitute. Re-clear the code and verify it does not return on a road test.

Possible Fixes

  • Replace the failed device or sensor identified during diagnosis
  • Repair open or shorted wiring
  • Connector pin-tension or pigtail repair
  • Module replacement and PMI (Programmable Module Installation) if the module itself is faulty

Can I Still Drive With C1979-13?

Drivability impact depends on the affected subsystem. TRANSFER CASE CONTROL MODULE (TCCM) faults that affect a primary safety system (brakes, restraints, steering) should be repaired before further driving. Comfort or convenience faults can usually be deferred briefly without immediate safety risk.

Compare nearby Ford solenoid iwe trouble codes with similar definitions, fault patterns, and diagnostic paths.

  • C1979 – 11 – Iwe Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Short To Ground (Ford F-150)
  • B0001 – 13 – Driver Frontal Stage 1 Deployment Control: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)
  • B0002 – 13 – Driver Frontal Stage 2 Deployment Control: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)
  • B0004 – 13 – Driver Knee Bolster Deployment Control: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)
  • B0005 – 13 – Collapsible Steering Column Deployment Control: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)
  • B0010 – 13 – Passenger Frontal Stage 1 Deployment Control: Circuit Open (Ford F-150)

FAQ

Will C1979-13 clear itself on a Ford F-150?

If the underlying fault was a momentary glitch — for example a brief connector dropout or a one-time low-voltage event — the C1979-13 may clear after a few drive cycles. Persistent root causes (failed device, broken wire, corroded terminal) will keep the fault active until the affected component is repaired on the Ford F-150.

Can I drive my Ford F-150 with C1979-13 active?

It depends which subsystem is affected. If the C1979-13 is in a primary safety system (brakes, restraints, steering, air suspension), the Ford F-150 should be driven only to a workshop. Comfort, lighting, and audio faults are lower priority but still worth addressing — the Ford F-150’s CAN architecture means a single unresolved code can mask others.

How much does it cost to fix C1979-13 on a Ford F-150?

Repair cost depends on the named device. On the Ford F-150, simple connector or wiring repairs typically run $80-200 in shop labour. Sensor replacements run $120-450 including parts and diagnostic time. Module replacement (when the affected control module itself has failed) is the most expensive path at $400-1,200 depending on whether the new module needs programming. Get a written estimate that breaks out diagnosis time, parts, and any required PMI / programming charge.

What does the official Ford F-150 service definition say about C1979-13?

Per the factory service information, C1979-13 is defined as: Iwe Solenoid Circuit Failure: Circuit Open. The diagnostic procedure is in the Ford F-150 service-manual chapter for the affected module.