GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0130 : Low Brake Fluid Circuit Open

Diagnostic Fault Information

Important: Always perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Low Brake Fluid Signal Circuit

C0267¹

C0130

--

--

¹Low brake fluid level

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) sends 12 volts across the low brake fluid circuit. The brake fluid level sensor has an internal resistor between the contacts of the normally open switch. The EBCM can determine the difference between low brake fluid and an open circuit by calculating the current change of the low brake fluid signal circuit when the switch closes or the circuit becomes open.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The EBCM detects an open in the low brake fluid circuit.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the traction control system (TCS)/dynamic rear proportion (DRP)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The Brake Warning indicator turns ON.
    • The Stability Caution indicator turns ON.
    • The driver information center (DIC) displays the SERVICE STAB SYS message.
    • The DIC displays the TRAC FAILED messages.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

The brake fluid reservoir and brake fluid level switch can not be serviced separately.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Brake Warning System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Hydraulic Brake Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Scan Tool Data List

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Turn the ignition OFF. Disconnect the low brake fluid sensor harness connector. Connect a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the 2 terminals of the low brake fluid sensor harness connector. Turn ON the ignition.
  2. If DTC C0268 sets, replace the brake fluid reservoir.
  3. Connect one end of a test lamp to battery positive voltage and touch the other to the ground circuit at the low brake fluid harness connector. The test lamp should illuminate.
  4. If the test lamp does not illuminate, repair the open in the ground circuit.
    If the test lamp does illuminate, repair the open in the low brake fluid signal circuit.
    If no wiring faults can be found, replace the EBCM.

Repair Instructions

Important: Always perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Master Cylinder Reservoir Replacement
    •  Control Module References for EBCM/brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV) replacement, setup, and programming