C1218 Code - Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
Quick Answer
The system relay is energized when the ignition is ON. Common causes include Faulty Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV), Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) harness is open or shorted, Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) 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
- C1218 indicates Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV), Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) harness is open or shorted, Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) 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.
Code C1218 Description
- Transfers brake fluid from the brake calipers to the master cylinder reservoir during pressure decrease events.
- Transfers brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir to the brake calipers during pressure increase events.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1218?
- Faulty Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV)
- Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) harness is open or shorted
- Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM)
How to Fix the DTC C1218?
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 C1218 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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Information for Specific Makes
- C1218 Buick — Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
- C1218 Cadillac — Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
- C1218 Chevrolet — Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
- C1218 GMC — Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
- C1218 Lexus — SMC2 Circuit
- C1218 Pontiac — Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open
- C1218 Scion — SMC2 Circuit
- C1218 Toyota — SMC2 Circuit
Frequently Asked Questions about C1218 Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code C1218?
- Common symptoms include the ABS warning light being illuminated on the dashboard, possible loss of ABS functionality, and unusual brake pedal behavior.
2. What does it mean when the OBDII code C1218 indicates "Pump Motor Circuit Shorted To Voltage Or Motor Ground Open"?
- This means there is an issue with the ABS pump motor circuit, where the motor may be shorted to voltage or the motor ground is open.
3. What are possible causes of OBDII code C1218?
- Possible causes include a faulty ABS pump motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, or a malfunctioning ABS control module.
4. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code C1218?
- Diagnosis typically involves checking the ABS system for any visible damage, testing the ABS pump motor, inspecting wiring and connectors, and using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve more specific information.
5. Can I still drive my vehicle with OBDII code C1218?
- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with an active ABS malfunction, as it could compromise safety, especially during emergency braking situations.
6. How can I repair OBDII code C1218?
- Repair options may include replacing the ABS pump motor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming the ABS control module.
7. Is it safe to reset the OBDII code C1218 without repairing the issue?
- Resetting the code without addressing the underlying problem will likely result in the code reappearing, as the root cause of the issue has not been fixed.
8. Can low brake fluid levels cause OBDII code C1218?
- While low brake fluid levels can trigger ABS warning lights, OBDII code C1218 specifically relates to issues with the ABS pump motor circuit.
9. Will driving in adverse weather conditions affect OBDII code C1218?
- Driving in adverse weather conditions may not directly cause this code, but it can exacerbate existing ABS system issues, leading to the illumination of the ABS warning light.
10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C1218?
- Repair times can vary depending on the extent of the issue and the availability of parts, but it is recommended to address the problem promptly to ensure safe driving.
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