GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The brake pedal position sensor (BPP) is a potentiometer. The electronic brake control module (EBCM) supplies a 5-volt reference circuit and low reference circuit to the BPP sensor. The BPP sensor signal circuit is a direct input to the EBCM. The EBCM determines the BPP based on the voltage from the BPP sensor. The EBCM converts the BPP sensor feed back voltage to a digital signal and puts it on the class 2 communication bus.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0278 Brake Pedal Position Sensor Not Calibrated

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The EBCM must be powered.
    • This test is run continuously.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The BPP sensor calibration procedure has never been performed.
    • The last BPP sensor calibration was unsuccessful.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

When DTC C0278 is set the following will occur:

    • The engine drive control is disabled.
    • The panic brake assist is disabled.
    • The traction control system is disabled.
    • The vehicle stability enhancement system is disabled.
    • The service vehicle soon lamp will illuminate.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The current DTC will clear when the fault is no longer present.
    • A history DTC clears after 100 consecutive ignition cycles in which no faults have occurred.
    • Clear the DTC with a scan tool.

Test Description

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

  1. This step calibrates the brake position sensor.

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Interior Lights Schematics and Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Master Electrical Component List

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Perform the brake pedal position (BPP) sensor calibration procedure. Refer to Brake Pedal Position Sensor Calibration .

Did you complete the calibration procedure?

Go to Step 3

--

3

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC.

Does the DTC reset?

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 6

4

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the BPP sensor. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 5

5

Important: Always perform the calibration procedure for the BPP sensor. Refer to Brake Pedal Position Sensor Calibration .

Replace the BPP sensor. Refer to Brake Pedal Position Sensor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 6

--

6

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC.

Does the DTC reset?

Go to Step 2

System OK