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 C0242: ECM Indicated TCS Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) and the engine control module (ECM) simultaneously control the traction control. The EBCM sends a high speed GMLAN serial data message to the ECM requesting torque reduction. When certain ECM DTCs are set, the ECM will not be able to perform the torque reduction for traction control. A serial data message is sent to the EBCM indicating that traction control is not allowed.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • Ignition voltage is greater than 8 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM diagnoses a condition preventing the engine control portion of the traction control function and sends a serial data message to the EBCM indicating that torque reduction is not allowed. The ECM will typically set other DTCs and the EBCM will set DTC C0242.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the traction control system (TCS) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • A DIC message and/or a warning message may be displayed.
    • The antilock brake system (ABS) remains functional.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
    • The electronic brake control module (EBCM) automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

This DTC is for information only. As an aid to the technician, this DTC indicates that there are no problems in the ABS/TCS.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

ABS Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Circuit Testing

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Verify that no DTCs are set in the ECM.
  2. If DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle