AutoCodes – Buick – C0242 Buick

C0242 Buick Code - Engine Control Module Indicated Traction Control Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) and the Engine Control Module (ECM) simultaneously control the traction control. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), EBCM Harness is open or shorted, EBCM 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: C0242 Buick indicates Engine Control Module Indicated Traction Control Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), EBCM Harness is open or shorted, EBCM 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.

Save to My Repairs My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 17,099

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 28, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code C0242 Buick Description

The Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) and the Engine Control Module (ECM) simultaneously control the traction control. The Electronic Brake Control Module sends a serial data message to the Engine Control Module requesting torque reduction. When certain Engine Control Module DTCs are set, the Engine Control Module will not be able to perform the torque reduction for traction control. A serial data message is sent to the Electronic Brake Control Module indicating that traction control is not allowed. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) engine control module detects a fault that prevents it from performing a traction control function and sends a serial data message to the electronic brake control module indicating that torque reduction is not allowed.

OBDII Code C0242 Buick - Engine Control Module Indicated Traction Control Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — C0242 Buick Code - Engine Control Module Indicated Traction Control Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0242 Buick?

Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM)
EBCM Harness is open or shorted
EBCM Circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC C0242 Buick?

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 C0242 Buick 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 C0242 Buick code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0242 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0242 Buick code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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.