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 C0285: Brake Fluid Flow Switch Circuit Low

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Brake Fluid Level Sensor Signal

C0285

--

--

--

Brake Fluid Flow Sensor Signal

C0285

--

--

--

Brake Fluid Flow Sensor Ground

C0285

--

--

--

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) monitors the function of the brake fluid flow switch to assure that the switch opens and closes properly.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The EBCM detects a closed brake fluid flow switch for greater than 1.6 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The brake warning indicator illuminates.
    • A fast audible chime turns ON.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

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

Diagnostic Aids

    •  Ensure the power steering fluid is full and that the power steering belt is in good condition with proper tension. Any failure in the power steering system which effects steering or brake assist may cause this DTC to set.
    •  Ensure the power brake system is operating properly. Perform the Brake Assist System Diagnosis.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Hydraulic Brake Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

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

Inspect the master cylinder reservoir for the proper brake fluid level.

If brake fluid level is low, refer to Hydraulic Brake System Diagnosis and Diagnostic Aids.

Circuit/System Testing

Important: This test should only be performed if brake fluid is not low.

  1. With the park brake released and the ignition OFF, disconnect the brake fluid level switch connector. Ignition ON, verify Brake indicator lamp on IPC is illuminated.
  2. If the Brake indicator lamp is not illuminated, replace the brake fluid level switch.
  3. Ignition ON, observe the scan tool Brake Fluid Level Status parameter in EBCM. Verify parameter is OK.
  4. If the Brake Fluid Level Status parameter is Low, repair short to ground in terminal B brake fluid level switch signal circuit.
  5. Ignition OFF, disconnect the power brake booster fluid flow switch terminal A harness connector.
  6. Engine ON, idle for 10 seconds. Verify if DTC C0285 resets.
  7. If DTC C0285 resets, test the brake booster fluid flow switch signal circuit terminal A for a short to ground and test the park brake booster fluid flow switch ground circuit terminal B for a short to ground. If the circuits test normal, replace the EBCM.
    If DTC C0285 does not reset, replace the power brake booster fluid flow switch.
  8. If all circuits test normal, replace the EBCM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Brake Fluid Level Indicator Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming
    •  Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling
    •  Fluid Flow Switch Replacement