GM Service Manual Online
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 C0870: Brake Pedal Position Sensor Circuit

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

10-Volt Reference

C0283, C0870

C0277

C0277, C0870

--

Stop Lamp Switch Signal

C0283

C0277

C0277

--

Low Reference

--

C0277

C0277

--

Circuit/System Description

The body control module (BCM) provides a 10-volt reference voltage and a low reference signal to the brake pedal position sensor (BPPS). When the brake pedal is applied, the BPPS sends a variable voltage signal through the brake apply sensor signal circuit to the BCM. The voltage signal will increase as the brake pedal is further depressed. In response to this signal, the BCM applies battery positive voltage to the stop lamp switch signal circuit and the rear stop/turn lamp supply voltage circuits.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition is ON

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The BCM detects an improper voltage on the 10-volt reference circuit

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The vehicle stop lamps will be inoperative
    • Cruise control operation will be disabled

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition responsible for setting the DTC no longer exists
    • A history DTC will clear once 100 consecutive malfunction-free ignition cycles have occurred

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Exterior Lights Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Exterior Lighting Systems Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for Scan Tool Information

Circuit/System Verification

Depress the brake pedal. The stop lamps should illuminate.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the BPPS.
  2. Ignition ON, test for 9.8-10.2 volts between the 10-volt reference circuit terminal A and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, test the 10-volt reference circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
    If less than the specified range, test the 10-volt reference circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
  4. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the BPPS.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Brake Pedal Position Sensor Replacement
    •  Control Module References for BCM replacement, setup, and programming