AutoCodes – KIA – C1161 KIA

C1161 KIA Code - Brake Light Switch Failure

Quick Answer

The brake light switch indicates brake pedal status to the ABS control unit. Common causes include Faulty Brake Light Switch, Brake Light Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Light Switch 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: C1161 KIA indicates Brake Light Switch Failure.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Brake Light Switch, Brake Light Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Light Switch 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 1,756

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 Aug 19, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1161 KIA Description

The brake light switch indicates brake pedal status to the ABS control unit. The switch is turned on when the brake is applied. The brake light switch is a normally-open contact which runs to battery voltage when active (brake operated). When passive (brake not operated), the cable is grounded via the brake light bulbs. The brake light switch is not monitored if the valve relay drops out, or in the event of low voltage or overvoltage.

OBDII Code C1161 KIA - Brake Light Switch Failure - AutoCodes.com — C1161 KIA Code - Brake Light Switch Failure

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1161 KIA?

Faulty Brake Light Switch
Brake Light Switch harness is open or shorted
Brake Light Switch circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C1161 KIA?

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 C1161 KIA 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 C1161 KIA Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1161 in a KIA related to brake light switch failure?

The common symptoms include non-functioning brake lights, inability to shift out of park, and the illumination of the brake warning light on the dashboard.

2. What is the main cause of OBDII code C1161 in a KIA indicating brake light switch failure?

The main cause is a faulty or malfunctioning brake light switch, which is responsible for detecting when the brake pedal is pressed.

3. How can I diagnose if the brake light switch is causing OBDII code C1161 in my KIA?

You can diagnose the issue by checking if the brake lights are not working when the brake pedal is pressed. Additionally, a scan tool can be used to check for OBDII codes, including C1161.

4. Can I still drive my KIA with OBDII code C1161 related to brake light switch failure?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue as it poses a safety hazard due to non-functioning brake lights and potential difficulty in shifting gears.

5. What is the repair process for fixing OBDII code C1161 in a KIA due to brake light switch failure?

The repair process involves replacing the faulty brake light switch with a new one, which is a relatively straightforward task that can be done by a qualified mechanic.

6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code C1161 in a KIA caused by brake light switch failure?

You can check the brake light switch for any visible damage or signs of wear and tear. Cleaning the switch contacts or adjusting its position may also help resolve the issue temporarily.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C1161 in a KIA attributed to brake light switch failure?

The cost of repairing this issue can vary depending on the labor rates and the price of the replacement brake light switch, but it is usually a relatively affordable repair.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code C1161 in my KIA related to brake light switch failure solve the problem?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue of a faulty brake light switch causing the code to reappear.

9. Can a bad brake light switch cause other problems in my KIA besides triggering OBDII code C1161?

Yes, a bad brake light switch can also lead to issues like cruise control not working, inability to shift out of park, or the vehicle not recognizing when the brake pedal is pressed.

10. Is it necessary to replace the brake light switch with an OEM part to resolve OBDII code C1161 in my KIA?

While using an OEM part is recommended for optimal performance, aftermarket brake light switches from reputable brands can also effectively resolve the issue and clear the OBDII code.