FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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With RPO JL4



DTC C0161 (W/JL4)

Circuit Description

The brake switch informs the electronic brake control module (EBCM) when the brake is depressed. The brake switch is normally closed, supplying 12 volts to the EBCM when the brake is released. When the brake pedal is pressed, voltage on the torque converter clutch (TCC) brake switch signal circuit is 0 volts.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0161 Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Switch Circuit

Conditions for Running the DTC

Any of the following conditions may cause the DTC to run:

^ The vehicle accelerates from 0 km/h (0 mph) to a speed greater than 56 km/h (35 mph).
^ The vehicle experiences an ABS event involving all hydraulic circuits.
^ The EBCM detects that the master cylinder pressure is greater than 1,400 kPa (200 psi) and that the vehicle is decelerating.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Any of the following conditions may cause the DTC to set:

^ Voltage on the TCC brake switch signal circuit is always low.
^ Voltage on the TCC brake switch signal circuit is always high.
^ Voltage on the TCC brake switch signal circuit is high for 0.5-4 seconds when voltage is expected to be low.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

^ The EBCM disables the vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES).
^ The TCS operates with engine torque reduction capability only.
^ The stability indicator turns ON.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The Conditions for Setting the DTC are no longer present and you use the scan tool Clear DTCs function.

Diagnostic Aids

Thoroughly inspect connections or circuitry that may cause an intermittent malfunction. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections, Connector Repairs, Testing for Electrical Intermittents, and Wiring Repairs.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
4. This step tests for a shorted stop lamp switch.
5. This step tests for an open stop lamp switch.

Step 1 - Step 9:




Step 10 - Step 12: