GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC C0161 Under 8600 GVW

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 C0161: Antilock Brake System (ABS) Brake Switch/Sensor Circuit Not Plausible

Circuit/System Description

The body control module (BCM) illuminates the stop lamps by applying battery positive voltage to the stop lamp supply voltage circuit. The electronic brake control module (EBCM) receives a voltage input from the stop lamp supply voltage circuit to determine if the brake pedal is applied.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • The vehicle speed is greater than 16 km/h (10 mph).
    • The ignition voltage is greater than 9.5 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The brake pedal is sensed as applied for 60 seconds.
    • The vehicle speed is greater than 21 km/h (13 mph).

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS)/Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) if equipped, remains functional.
    • The stability indicator illuminates.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

The DTC C0161 can be set if the vehicle has been driven with the brake applied during acceleration. Also inspect the brake pedal switch and connector for proper operation.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Antilock Brake System Connector End Views

Description and Operation

ABS Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Scan Tool Data List for EBCM

Circuit/System Verification

With the ignition ON, use a scan tool to display DTCs for the BCM.

If B codes are present, Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle .
If no DTCs are present, go to Diagnostic Aids.

Circuit/System Testing

Apply and release brake pedal. Verify brake lamps operate properly. If brake lamps do not operate properly, review brake pedal switch diagnostics in lighting. Refer to Symptoms - Lighting .

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.