AutoCodes – Generic – C028A

C028A Code - Hand Brake Motor Circuit

Quick Answer

The hand brake control module has an internal motor, apply actuator, release actuator, and temperature sensor. Common causes include Faulty Hand Brake Motor, Hand Brake Motor harness is open or shorted, Hand Brake Motor 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: C028A indicates Hand Brake Motor Circuit.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Hand Brake Motor, Hand Brake Motor harness is open or shorted, Hand Brake Motor 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 3,671

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 12, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C028A Description

The hand brake control module has an internal motor, apply actuator, release actuator, and temperature sensor. The hand brake control module also contains the logic for applying and releasing the hand brake when commanded by the hand brake switch. When the hand brake control module receives a signal from the switch the internal circuit board temperature is checked to verify it is within operating range before the control module performs the requested operation. The hand brake control module will also diagnose the internal hand brake motor circuit to verify it is functioning properly. The hand brake motor circuit is used to command motor operation, apply and release tension on the hand brake cable, which will apply and release the hand brake.
The hand brake will self diagnose the internal Hand brake Motor Circuit. This circuit is used to drive the motor, which pulls on the hand brake cable, ultimately applying and releasing the hand brake.

OBDII Code C028A - Hand Brake Motor Circuit - AutoCodes.com — C028A Code - Hand Brake Motor Circuit

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C028A?

Faulty Hand Brake Motor
Hand Brake Motor harness is open or shorted
Hand Brake Motor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C028A?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

- C028A 01: Hand Brake Motor Circuit Short to Battery
- C028A 02: Hand Brake Motor Circuit Short to Ground
- C028A 04: Hand Brake Motor Circuit Open Circuit
- C028A 08: Hand Brake Motor Circuit Performance-Signal Invalid
- C028A 28: Hand Brake Motor Circuit Performance-Incorrect Frequency

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C028A 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 C028A code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

C028A Buick — Hand Brake Motor Circuit
C028A Cadillac — Hand Brake Motor Circuit
C028A Chevrolet — Hand Brake Motor Circuit
C028A GMC — Hand Brake Motor 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 C028A Code

1. What are the common symptoms associated with OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- Common symptoms include the hand brake not engaging or disengaging properly, unusual noises coming from the hand brake motor, and the hand brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard.

2. What are the typical causes of OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- The code C028A is often caused by a faulty hand brake motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the hand brake system, or a malfunctioning control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- Diagnosing the problem involves inspecting the hand brake motor, checking the wiring harness for any damage, and using a scan tool to read the trouble codes stored in the control module.

4. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit) present?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as it may affect the proper operation of the hand brake system, potentially compromising your vehicle's safety.

5. Can I reset the OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit) on my own?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the warning light, but the underlying issue causing the fault will still need to be diagnosed and repaired for a permanent solution.

6. How do I repair OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit) on my vehicle?

- Repairing this code typically involves replacing a faulty hand brake motor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the control module to resolve the issue.

7. Will OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit) cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?

- While this code is not directly related to emissions, it is still important to address and repair it to ensure the overall functionality and safety of your vehicle.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect the occurrence of OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- Extreme weather conditions such as extreme cold or heat can potentially exacerbate existing issues with the hand brake system, leading to the triggering of this fault code.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but most repairs related to this code can be completed within a few hours to a day by a qualified technician.

10. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid encountering OBDII code C028A (Hand Brake Motor Circuit)?

- Regularly inspecting and maintaining your hand brake system, including checking for any unusual noises or malfunctions, can help prevent issues that may trigger this fault code.