For 1990-2009 cars only
Diagnostic Instructions
| • | Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. |
| • | Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach. |
| • | Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category. |
DTC Descriptor
DTC C0161: ABS Brake Switch CircuitCircuit/System Description
The brake switch supplies battery positive voltage to the electronic brake control module (EBCM) when the brake pedal is applied.
Conditions for Running the DTC
Ignition voltage is greater than 9.5 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
Stop switch is on and vehicle speed is greater than 15 km/h (9 mph) for 15 minutes continuously.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | EBCM disables traction control system (TCS) and vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle. |
| • | Stability Caution indicator turns ON. |
| • | Driver information center (DIC) displays the TRACTION FAILED message. |
| • | An ECE 13 response occurs. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | The condition for setting 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. |
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Antilock Brake System Schematics
Connector End View Reference
Antilock Brake System Connector End Views
Electrical Information Reference
Scan Tool Reference
Circuit/System Verification
With the scan tool, observe the Brake Switch Status data parameter. Apply and release the brake pedal. The brake pedal switch status should change from OFF to ON.
Circuit/System Testing
- Release the brake pedal. With the scan tool observe the Brake Switch Status data parameter.
- With the ignition OFF, disconnect the EBCM connector. With the Ignition ON release the brake pedal and connect a test lamp between the stop lamp switch signal circuit and ground.
| ⇒ | If the fault is current, the scan tool brake switch status displays ON. |
| ⇒ | If the scan tool displays OFF, go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections . |
| ⇒ | If the test lamp illuminates go to Symptoms - Lighting Systems . |
| ⇒ | If the test lamp does not illuminate, replace the EBCM/ brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV) assembly. |
Repair Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.
| • | Control Module References for EBCM or BPMV replacement, setup, and programming |
