FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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C0161




DTC C0161

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.

* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0161 5A
- Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit Not Plausible

Circuit/System Description

When the brake pedal is applied, the Body Control Module sends a serial data message to the Electronic Brake Control Module in reference to the brake pedal positions. The Electronic Brake Control Module compares the correlation between the brake pedal position and the amount of brake pressure it senses from the Brake Pressure Sensor, which is internal to the Brake Pressure Modulator. It uses this information to control the vehicle during an electronic stability control event.

Conditions for Running the DTC

* Ignition ON.

* DTC C0131 is not present.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

* The Electronic Brake Control Module detects the brake pedal is not applied and the brake pressure is greater than 15 bar (218 psi) for 2 seconds.

* The Electronic Brake Control Module detects the vehicle speed is greater than 16 km/h (10 MPH), the brake pedal is applied for 122 seconds, and the brake pressure is less than 6.2 bar (90 psi).

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

* A message and/or indicator may be displayed.

* The Electronic Brake Control Module disables the ABS, the traction control and the electronic stability control for the duration of the ignition cycle.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

* A current DTC clears when the diagnostic runs and passes.

* The history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive fault-free ignition cycles have occurred.

Diagnostic Aids

* Diagnose all other stop lamp DTCs or symptoms prior to performing this diagnostic procedure.

* DTC C0161 may set if the brake pedal is applied while accelerating, such as two footed driving.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Antilock Brake System Schematics [1][2]Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views Fuel Pump and Level Sensor Assembly

Description and Operation

ABS Description and Operation Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

* Circuit Testing Circuit Testing

* Connector Repairs Connector Repairs

* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

* Wiring Repairs Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

1. Ignition ON.

2. Verify that DTC C0277 or C0890 is not set.

If either DTC is set
Refer to DTC C0277 or C0890 C0277.

If the DTC is not set

3. Verify the B22 Brake Pedal Position Sensor or the brake pedal are not binding causing residual brake pressure to be detected.

If a condition is found
Repair or replace the appropriate component.

If a condition is not found

4. Verify the scan tool Electronic Brake Control Module BPP Signal parameter changes between Applied and Released while applying and releasing the brake pedal.

If the parameter does not change between Applied and Released
Refer to Symptoms - Lighting Symptoms - Lighting.

If the parameter changes between Applied and Released

5. All OK, refer to Diagnostic Aids.