AutoCodes – Generic – C053E

C053E Code - Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Electronic Brake Control Module uses inputs from the Electronic Brake Control Brake Pedal Position Sensor to determine when the brake is applied and how much force is used. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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: C053E indicates Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module 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 520

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 Jul 13, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C053E Description

The Electronic Brake Control Module uses inputs from the Electronic Brake Control Brake Pedal Position Sensor to determine when the brake is applied and how much force is used. The Electronic Brake Control Module monitors when the driver's foot is on the brake and locks the offset. The offset is locked when three out of the four inputs indicate the brake pedal is applied. The four inputs are brake pedal travel 1, brake pedal travel 2, master cylinder pressure sensor, and brake pedal position sensor. These inputs are used to determine the driver's braking intent which is used to control the amount of pressure applied to the wheels.
Brake pressure sensor information is communicated from the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) to the Hybrid Control Processor (HCP). This information is used to schedule regenerative braking and engine autostops.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a corrupted data message from the Electronic Brake Control Module.

OBDII Code C053E - Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — C053E Code - Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C053E?

Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM)
Electronic Brake Control Module harness is open or shorted
Electronic Brake Control Module circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Starter/Generator Control Module

How to Fix the DTC C053E?

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 C053E 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 C053E code?

Need more information on how to fix the C053E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

C053E Buick — Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low
C053E Cadillac — Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low
C053E Chevrolet — Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low
C053E GMC — Brake Pressure Sensor 1 Circuit Low

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 C053E Code

1. What does the OBDII code C053E mean?

C053E indicates a problem with the Brake Pressure Sensor 1 circuit, specifically that it is reading a low voltage or signal issue.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C053E?

Symptoms may include illuminated ABS or brake warning lights, reduced braking performance, and loss of traction control or stability assist functions.

3. What causes the C053E code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty brake pressure sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, corroded electrical connections, or issues with the ABS control module.

4. Can I drive my vehicle with the C053E code active?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it is not recommended as braking performance and safety systems like ABS and traction control may be compromised.

5. How do I diagnose the C053E code?

Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to confirm the code, visually inspecting the sensor and wiring, and testing the sensor voltage and resistance with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the C053E code?

Repairs may include replacing the brake pressure sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the code with a scan tool after repairs.

7. How much does it cost to fix code C053E?

The cost depends on the specific issue but typically ranges from $150 to $400, including parts and labor, for replacing the brake pressure sensor or repairing wiring.

8. Can a bad ABS control module cause the C053E code?

Yes, a malfunctioning ABS control module can trigger the C053E code, though this is less common compared to sensor or wiring issues.

9. How can I prevent the C053E code from recurring?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting and cleaning electrical connections and ensuring brake system components are in good condition, can help prevent recurrence.

10. Do I need to recalibrate the system after repairing a C053E code?

In some cases, recalibration of the brake pressure sensor or ABS system may be necessary using a scan tool to ensure proper functionality.