AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C028A Chevrolet

C028A Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet 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 3,028

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C028A Chevrolet?

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 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 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 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.

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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 C028A Chevrolet Code

1. What does the OBDII code C028A mean on a Chevrolet?

The C028A code indicates an issue with the Hand Brake Motor Circuit, which controls the electronic parking brake system.

2. What are the common symptoms of the C028A code in a Chevrolet?

Symptoms include the parking brake not engaging or releasing, a parking brake warning light on the dashboard, or a service parking brake message.

3. What causes the C028A code to appear?

Common causes include a malfunctioning hand brake motor, damaged wiring or connectors, a faulty electronic brake control module (EBCM), or corrosion in the circuit.

4. Can I drive my Chevrolet with the C028A code?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as the parking brake may not function properly, potentially leading to safety issues.

5. How is the C028A code diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves using a scan tool to confirm the code, inspecting the hand brake motor and wiring for damage or corrosion, and testing the electronic brake control module.

6. How do I fix the C028A code on a Chevrolet?

Repairs may include replacing the hand brake motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or replacing the electronic brake control module if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix the C028A code?

Repair costs vary but typically range from $150 to $600, depending on whether the motor, wiring, or module needs to be repaired or replaced.

8. Can a bad battery cause the C028A code?

Yes, a weak or failing battery can cause voltage issues that affect the hand brake motor circuit and trigger the C028A code.

9. Will clearing the code fix the C028A issue?

Clearing the code will temporarily remove it, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent it from returning.

10. Is the C028A code covered under warranty?

Coverage depends on your vehicle's warranty terms. If the issue is related to a defect in the electronic parking brake system, it may be covered under a powertrain or emissions warranty.