AutoCodes – GMC – C0542 2017 GMC Sierra

C0542 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Brake Pressure Sensor 2 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: C0542 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Brake Pressure Sensor 2 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 179

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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra 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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra - Brake Pressure Sensor 2 Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — C0542 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Brake Pressure Sensor 2 Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0542 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra?

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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra 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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra code?

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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 C0542 2017 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code C0542 mean on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

C0542 indicates a "Brake Pressure Sensor 2 Circuit Low" issue, meaning the sensor is reporting voltage below the expected range.

2. What are the common symptoms of code C0542 in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Symptoms may include the ABS warning light, traction control light, reduced braking performance, or the brake system not functioning as intended.

3. What causes code C0542 in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Common causes include a faulty brake pressure sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning ABS module.

4. Can a faulty brake pressure sensor cause C0542?

Yes, a malfunctioning brake pressure sensor is one of the primary causes of this code, as it may fail to send the correct voltage signal.

5. How can I diagnose code C0542 on my 2017 GMC Sierra?

Start by checking the brake pressure sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's voltage output and continuity.

6. Is it safe to drive with code C0542 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Driving with this code may not be safe, as it can impair ABS and traction control functions, potentially reducing braking effectiveness.

7. What repairs can fix code C0542 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the brake pressure sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, or reprogramming or replacing the ABS module if necessary.

8. Does the ABS module need to be replaced for code C0542?

Not always. The ABS module should only be replaced after confirming that the brake pressure sensor and wiring are functioning correctly.

9. How much does it cost to repair code C0542 on a 2017 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $150 to $400, depending on whether the brake pressure sensor, wiring, or ABS module needs attention.

10. Can a low battery cause code C0542 in a 2017 GMC Sierra?

While rare, a weak or low battery can sometimes cause voltage-related issues that trigger this code. Checking the battery and charging system is a good precaution.