AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C0161 Chevrolet

C0161 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 33,178

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0161 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet?

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 Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0161 Chevrolet code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Chevrolet Models

C0161 2014 Chevrolet Silverado — Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit
C0161 2015 Chevrolet Silverado — Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit
C0161 2016 Chevrolet Silverado — Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit
C0161 2017 Chevrolet Silverado — Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit
C0161 2018 Chevrolet Silverado — Antilock Braking System Brake Switch Circuit

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 Chevrolet Code

What does OBDII code C0161 mean in a Chevrolet?

C0161 indicates an issue with the Antilock Braking System (ABS) Brake Switch Circuit, which may affect the vehicle's braking and traction control systems.

What are the common symptoms of code C0161?

Symptoms include the ABS warning light illuminating, traction control system deactivation, and potential loss of ABS functionality.

What causes code C0161 to appear in a Chevrolet?

Common causes include a faulty brake light switch, corroded or damaged wiring, poor electrical connections, or a malfunctioning ABS control module.

Can a faulty brake light switch trigger code C0161?

Yes, a malfunctioning brake light switch is one of the most common causes of this code.

How do I diagnose code C0161 in my Chevrolet?

Start by inspecting the brake light switch, wiring, and connectors. Use a scan tool to verify the code and check brake switch signal readings.

Is it safe to drive with code C0161 active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, the ABS and traction control systems may not function properly, which can compromise safety in certain driving conditions.

How do I fix code C0161 in a Chevrolet?

Repairs typically involve replacing the faulty brake light switch, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the ABS module if necessary.

Can a bad ABS control module cause code C0161?

Yes, although less common, a malfunctioning ABS control module can sometimes cause this code.

How much does it cost to repair code C0161?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $100 to $300, depending on whether the issue lies with the brake light switch, wiring, or ABS module.

Will clearing the code fix the problem permanently?

No, clearing the code will only reset the warning temporarily. The underlying issue must be diagnosed and repaired to prevent the code from returning.