GM tech says bad EBCM causing C0161
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Instructor
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 248
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GM tech says bad EBCM causing C0161
My car is again acting up after 5 trouble free months after the BCM was replaced ($680).
The service tech gathered his codes and spoke with GM who said it is likely the EBCM. Unfortunately this is another $2,000 and I am resistant to shell out the money, especially as they say it is "likely" the EBCM.
Code is always C0161. Symptoms are like when it first started in June 2012. But that soon created an issue with brake lights so I fear the same will soon occur.
Can anyone advise on this potential fix? Car has new BPPS (did not fix) followed by new BCM (5 months of blissful driving). And now it starts again, with the prospect of $2,000 for EBCM.
Thanks
The service tech gathered his codes and spoke with GM who said it is likely the EBCM. Unfortunately this is another $2,000 and I am resistant to shell out the money, especially as they say it is "likely" the EBCM.
Code is always C0161. Symptoms are like when it first started in June 2012. But that soon created an issue with brake lights so I fear the same will soon occur.
Can anyone advise on this potential fix? Car has new BPPS (did not fix) followed by new BCM (5 months of blissful driving). And now it starts again, with the prospect of $2,000 for EBCM.
Thanks
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 767
Likes: 12
From: Keller TX
Try removing the harness at the EBCM and spray both sides of the connection with something like CRC Electrical Connector cleaner. Worst case you CAN swap the E part of EBCM and not the whole unit. That means removing the 4 T10 (I think) torq screws and removing just the electrical brains of the EBCM and leaving the 6 brake line connections in place attached to the electromechanical solenoids that modulate the brake fluid. I have done this twice and the first time it took 40mins, the second time it took about 6. Best access is from the bottom and you will need a friend available to help guide the 1/4" drive ratchet. HTH.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 5,972
Likes: 48
From: NCM Lifetime#2195 Bulverde, Texas 78163
St. Jude Donor '13
DTC Descriptor
DTC C0161 00
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Brake Switch Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) detects inputs from the brake pressure sensor, vehicle speed, and a serial data message from the BCM that the brake pedal is applied. When the vehicle is stopping the EBCM monitors for the brake pedal is pressed, with the brake pressure increasing and the vehicle is slowing down, or when the vehicle is accelerating, the brake pedal is not pressed and brake pressure is not increasing.
Conditions for Running the DTC
•The vehicle speed is greater than 16 km/h (10 mph).
•The ignition voltage is greater than 9.5 V.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
•The EBCM detects the vehicle speed greater than 21 km/h (13 mph), the brake pedal is Applied for 1 minute , and brake pressure is not increasing.
•The EBCM detects brake pedal is Released and the vehicle speed is decreasing with the brake pressure is increasing.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
•The EBCM disables the antilock brake system (ABS), traction control system (TCS) and vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
•A driver information center message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
DTC C0161 00
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Brake Switch Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) detects inputs from the brake pressure sensor, vehicle speed, and a serial data message from the BCM that the brake pedal is applied. When the vehicle is stopping the EBCM monitors for the brake pedal is pressed, with the brake pressure increasing and the vehicle is slowing down, or when the vehicle is accelerating, the brake pedal is not pressed and brake pressure is not increasing.
Conditions for Running the DTC
•The vehicle speed is greater than 16 km/h (10 mph).
•The ignition voltage is greater than 9.5 V.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
•The EBCM detects the vehicle speed greater than 21 km/h (13 mph), the brake pedal is Applied for 1 minute , and brake pressure is not increasing.
•The EBCM detects brake pedal is Released and the vehicle speed is decreasing with the brake pressure is increasing.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
•The EBCM disables the antilock brake system (ABS), traction control system (TCS) and vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
•A driver information center message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
