AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado

C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit

Quick Answer

When the brake pedal is applied, the Body Control Module (BCM) sends a serial data message to the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) in reference to the brake pedal positions. Common causes include Faulty Brake Switch (Stop Lamp Switch), Brake Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Switch circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Brake Switch (Stop Lamp Switch), Brake Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Switch circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 275

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

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Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 20, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Description

When the brake pedal is applied, the Body Control Module (BCM) sends a serial data message to the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) in reference to the brake pedal positions. The Electronic Brake Control Module compares the correlation between the brake pedal position and the amount of brake pressure it senses from the brake pressure sensor, which is internal to the brake pressure modulator. It uses this information to control the vehicle during an electronic stability control event. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Electronic Brake Control Module detects the vehicle speed is greater than 16 km/h (10 MPH), the brake pedal is applied for 122 s, and the brake pressure is less than 620 kPa (90 psi).

OBDII Code C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado - Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit - AutoCodes.com — C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Faulty Brake Switch (Stop Lamp Switch)
Brake Switch harness is open or shorted
Brake Switch circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) with Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV)

How to Fix the DTC C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The common symptoms of OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado include the ABS warning light illuminating on the dashboard, potential loss of traction control, and possible issues with the vehicle's braking system.

2. What does the OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicate?

OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado indicates a fault in the Antilock Braking System (ABS) Brake Switch Circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Possible causes of OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado include a faulty brake switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the brake switch circuit, or a malfunctioning ABS control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code C0161 in my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosing OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, checking the brake switch and its circuit for any visible damage, and testing the ABS system for proper functionality.

5. Can I still drive my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0161?

It is not recommended to drive your 2017 Chevrolet Silverado with OBDII code C0161, as this code indicates a potential issue with the vehicle's antilock braking system, which can compromise safety on the road.

6. How can I repair OBDII code C0161 in my 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairing OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado may involve replacing the faulty brake switch, repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the brake switch circuit, or addressing any issues with the ABS control module.

7. Can OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado be reset without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado without fixing the underlying issue will likely result in the code reappearing once the vehicle is driven and the ABS system is engaged.

8. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

To prevent OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, it is essential to maintain the vehicle's braking system, regularly inspect the brake switch and its circuit, and address any electrical issues promptly.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost to repair OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

10. Will OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado affect the vehicle's performance?

OBDII code C0161 in a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado may affect the vehicle's performance by potentially causing issues with the antilock braking system, traction control, and overall braking effectiveness.