ABS/Traction control warning
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 3
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ABS/Traction control warning
Hi guys: I've been following your forum for a time but just now joined. I'm new to Corvettes (2009 base with 65,000 miles) which I purchased two months ago. I'm not new to sports or muscle cars and am a retired auto tech. Recently this car started to display the dreaded service ABS etc. message intermittently, generally going away after a restart. I brought my scanner with me on the last ride and pulled the codes C0161 and C0131, both pointing to a brake system pressure issue. I haven't found a good service manual yet, so I'm wondering if I should be looking for a brake pressure switch. Anyone out there experienced these codes? It's a new battery and the car is in pristine shape i.e. no rust or corrosion of any kind. Any suggestions would be very appreciated. Thanks.
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 12,502
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C0161 Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Switch Circuit EBCM
DTC C0161
As for solution, do you want the full Monty, or just the quick fix isntead?
The quick fix maybe since the problem goes away with a restart, it to just pull the main EBCM connector to clean it and the mating pins on the EBCM with spray electrical cleaner, as well as the pressure switch connector on the other side of the unit.
The pressure switch in on the other side of the EBCM from the main connector, and will have silver threads on the base, and the connector clip in piece will be tan plastic.
Can see the switch in this link,
http://www.vettenuts.net/index.php?l..._detail&p=1475
DTC C0161
As for solution, do you want the full Monty, or just the quick fix isntead?
The quick fix maybe since the problem goes away with a restart, it to just pull the main EBCM connector to clean it and the mating pins on the EBCM with spray electrical cleaner, as well as the pressure switch connector on the other side of the unit.
The pressure switch in on the other side of the EBCM from the main connector, and will have silver threads on the base, and the connector clip in piece will be tan plastic.
Can see the switch in this link,
http://www.vettenuts.net/index.php?l..._detail&p=1475
Last edited by Dano523; May 26, 2020 at 11:36 AM.
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
C0161 Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Switch Circuit EBCM
DTC C0161
As for solution, do you want the full Monty, or just the quick fix isntead?
The quick fix maybe since the problem goes away with a restart, it to just pull the main EBCM connector to clean it and the mating pins on the EBCM with spray electrical cleaner, as well as the pressure switch connector on the other side of the unit.
The pressure switch in on the other side of the EBCM from the main connector, and will have silver threads on the base, and the connector clip in piece will be tan plastic.
Can see the switch in this link,
http://www.vettenuts.net/index.php?l..._detail&p=1475
DTC C0161
As for solution, do you want the full Monty, or just the quick fix isntead?
The quick fix maybe since the problem goes away with a restart, it to just pull the main EBCM connector to clean it and the mating pins on the EBCM with spray electrical cleaner, as well as the pressure switch connector on the other side of the unit.
The pressure switch in on the other side of the EBCM from the main connector, and will have silver threads on the base, and the connector clip in piece will be tan plastic.
Can see the switch in this link,
http://www.vettenuts.net/index.php?l..._detail&p=1475
Andy
Supporting Vendor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 727
Likes: 543
From: Atlanta, GA
Did this issue get fixed?
If so what fixed it?
I have the same code popping up on my 2010 GS now and its driving me nuts.
Also the brake lights not working properly has made it so I can't drive the car...
If so what fixed it?
I have the same code popping up on my 2010 GS now and its driving me nuts.
Also the brake lights not working properly has made it so I can't drive the car...
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,603
Likes: 4,060
From: Cape Coral, Florida
I see you are a Performance vendor so what DTC's are you seeing ??...sure you have a scan tool...you always start there.
Supporting Vendor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 727
Likes: 543
From: Atlanta, GA
We just don't have a lot of experience with C6 vettes unfortunately so the guys are scratching there heads on this one.
Thanks
Andrew
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,603
Likes: 4,060
From: Cape Coral, Florida
What year and any other pertinent info you can provide??...I'm looking at Alldata for an '07 and I don't see a C0131.
Last edited by C5 Diag; Jan 25, 2023 at 03:17 PM.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,603
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From: Cape Coral, Florida
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Verdad Gallardo
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
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From: Cape Coral, Florida
Supporting Vendor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 727
Likes: 543
From: Atlanta, GA
Both Scan tools show C0131 but it seems like C0161 is a similar code from the research I've done. ( I fully realize not all research is good info haha)
The car is a 2010 C6 Grand Sport 6MT
I truly appreciate any help!
Thanks
Andrew
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,603
Likes: 4,060
From: Cape Coral, Florida
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the VES actuator.
Important:In order to ensure correct test results, the J-35616 test lamp must be used to perform the following steps. Failure to use the J-35616 test lamp may result in inaccurate test results and potential misdiagnosis.
2. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the control circuit terminal A and ground.
♦ If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the control circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance.
3. Ignition OFF, connect the test lamp between the control circuit terminal A and the control circuit terminal B.
4. Ignition ON, verify the test lamp briefly illuminates for approximately 1 second, then turns OFF.
♦ If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit terminal B for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
♦ If the test lamp is always OFF, test the control circuit terminal B for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the VES actuator.
Component Testing
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the VES actuator harness connector terminal A and B.
2. Measure for 2.5-10 ohms of resistance between the VES actuator terminals.
♦ If not 2.5-10 ohms of resistance, replace the VES actuator.
3. Measure for infinite ohms of resistance between each VES actuator terminals and the VES actuator housing.
♦ If less than the specified range, replace the VES actuator.
Moderator, Tech Contributor
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 15,603
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From: Cape Coral, Florida
This is the code setting criteria and flow chart for the C0131:
DTC Descriptors
DTC C0131 00
- Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Pressure Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) uses input from the brake pressure sensor for vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) functions. The brake pressure sensor is internal to the brake pressure modulator valve.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* Ignition ON.
* Ignition voltage is greater than 10 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
* Sensor supply voltage is less than 4.5 volts or greater than 5.3 volts for more than 1 sec.
* Sensor signal voltage is less than 0.12 volts or greater than 3.2 volts for more than 1 sec.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
* A DIC message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
* The EBCM clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.
Diagnostic Aids
A C0131 can get set if the ECU is loosely attached to the hydraulic unit. The mountings should be checked for the proper torque.
Circuit/System Verification
1. Verify that DTC C0277 or C0278 is not set.
♦ If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle (See: A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) > Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions > Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle).
2. Ignition ON, observe the scan tool EBCM BPP Signal parameter. The parameter should be Released when the brake pedal is not applied, and change to Applied when the brake pedal is applied.
♦ If the parameter does not change between applied and released, perform the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration (See: Hydraulic Control Assembly - Antilock Brakes > Programming and Relearning > Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration).
3. Replace the brake pressure modulator valve assembly.
DTC Descriptors
DTC C0131 00
- Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Pressure Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) uses input from the brake pressure sensor for vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) functions. The brake pressure sensor is internal to the brake pressure modulator valve.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* Ignition ON.
* Ignition voltage is greater than 10 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
* Sensor supply voltage is less than 4.5 volts or greater than 5.3 volts for more than 1 sec.
* Sensor signal voltage is less than 0.12 volts or greater than 3.2 volts for more than 1 sec.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
* A DIC message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
* The EBCM clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.
Diagnostic Aids
A C0131 can get set if the ECU is loosely attached to the hydraulic unit. The mountings should be checked for the proper torque.
Circuit/System Verification
1. Verify that DTC C0277 or C0278 is not set.
♦ If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle (See: A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) > Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions > Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle).
2. Ignition ON, observe the scan tool EBCM BPP Signal parameter. The parameter should be Released when the brake pedal is not applied, and change to Applied when the brake pedal is applied.
♦ If the parameter does not change between applied and released, perform the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration (See: Hydraulic Control Assembly - Antilock Brakes > Programming and Relearning > Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration).
3. Replace the brake pressure modulator valve assembly.
Supporting Vendor
Joined: Mar 2020
Posts: 727
Likes: 543
From: Atlanta, GA
This is the code setting criteria and flow chart for the C0131:
DTC Descriptors
DTC C0131 00
- Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Pressure Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) uses input from the brake pressure sensor for vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) functions. The brake pressure sensor is internal to the brake pressure modulator valve.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* Ignition ON.
* Ignition voltage is greater than 10 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
* Sensor supply voltage is less than 4.5 volts or greater than 5.3 volts for more than 1 sec.
* Sensor signal voltage is less than 0.12 volts or greater than 3.2 volts for more than 1 sec.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
* A DIC message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
* The EBCM clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.
Diagnostic Aids
A C0131 can get set if the ECU is loosely attached to the hydraulic unit. The mountings should be checked for the proper torque.
Circuit/System Verification
1. Verify that DTC C0277 or C0278 is not set.
♦ If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle (See: A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) > Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions > Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle).
2. Ignition ON, observe the scan tool EBCM BPP Signal parameter. The parameter should be Released when the brake pedal is not applied, and change to Applied when the brake pedal is applied.
♦ If the parameter does not change between applied and released, perform the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration (See: Hydraulic Control Assembly - Antilock Brakes > Programming and Relearning > Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration).
3. Replace the brake pressure modulator valve assembly.
DTC Descriptors
DTC C0131 00
- Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Pressure Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) uses input from the brake pressure sensor for vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) functions. The brake pressure sensor is internal to the brake pressure modulator valve.
Conditions for Running the DTC
* Ignition ON.
* Ignition voltage is greater than 10 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
* Sensor supply voltage is less than 4.5 volts or greater than 5.3 volts for more than 1 sec.
* Sensor signal voltage is less than 0.12 volts or greater than 3.2 volts for more than 1 sec.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
* A DIC message and/or a warning indicator may be displayed.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
* The EBCM clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.
Diagnostic Aids
A C0131 can get set if the ECU is loosely attached to the hydraulic unit. The mountings should be checked for the proper torque.
Circuit/System Verification
1. Verify that DTC C0277 or C0278 is not set.
♦ If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle (See: A L L Diagnostic Trouble Codes ( DTC ) > Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions > Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle).
2. Ignition ON, observe the scan tool EBCM BPP Signal parameter. The parameter should be Released when the brake pedal is not applied, and change to Applied when the brake pedal is applied.
♦ If the parameter does not change between applied and released, perform the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration (See: Hydraulic Control Assembly - Antilock Brakes > Programming and Relearning > Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Pressure Sensor Calibration).
3. Replace the brake pressure modulator valve assembly.
Dude.... this write up... simply fantastic!!!!
Thank you for taking the time to type all of this out!
-Andrew
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
I took my car to a friend of mine who was a GM tech, but went out on his own with all the necessary factory hardware and software. He hooked up the laptop and we went for a ride, testing all the systems indicated by the codes, with all performing properly. Upon return to the shop he cleared the ECU of ten years worth of stored various codes, and I haven't had a problem since. It's been over 2 years now. I hope this helps, and good luck.