AutoCodes – Generic – C0253

C0253 Code - Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) relay supplies battery voltage to six valve solenoids. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) 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
C0253 indicates Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 12,248
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 03, 2020
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code C0253 Description

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) relay supplies battery voltage to six valve solenoids. The Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) microprocessor applies the grounds needed to activate each solenoid. The low side of each solenoid coil has a feedback circuit to the EBCM microprocessor. When a solenoid is commanded OFF, the feedback voltage is high. When a solenoid is commanded ON, the feedback voltage is low.
OBDII Code C0253 - Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
C0253 Code - Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0253?

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

How to Fix the DTC C0253?

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 C0253 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 C0253 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0253 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0253 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

  • C0253 Buick β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 Cadillac β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 Chevrolet β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 GMC β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 Hummer β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 Pontiac β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
  • C0253 Saturn β€” Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
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 C0253 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0253 (Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction)?

- Common symptoms include the illumination of the ABS warning light on the dashboard, potential loss of ABS functionality, and erratic brake behavior.

2. What can cause the OBDII code C0253 to be triggered?

- The code C0253 is typically triggered by a malfunction in the electronic brake control module control valve circuit, which can be caused by damaged wiring, a faulty control module, or a defective control valve.

3. How serious is the Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction?

- This issue can affect the proper operation of the ABS system, potentially compromising braking performance in certain situations. It is recommended to address this problem promptly.

4. Can driving with the C0253 code present cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with the C0253 code present can potentially lead to further damage to the ABS system and compromise overall vehicle safety. It is advised to address the issue as soon as possible.

5. How is the OBDII code C0253 diagnosed?

- The diagnosis typically involves using a professional OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, followed by a thorough inspection of the electronic brake control module, wiring, and related components.

6. What are some recommended repair tips for fixing the Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction?

- Repair tips may include checking and repairing any damaged wiring, replacing a faulty control module or control valve, and ensuring proper connections and grounding within the circuit.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the C0253 code issue at home?

- While some basic troubleshooting and repairs may be possible for experienced DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing complex ABS system issues like C0253 often require professional expertise and specialized equipment.

8. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the recurrence of the C0253 fault code?

- Regular inspection and maintenance of the ABS system, including checking wiring integrity and keeping components clean and well-connected, can help prevent the recurrence of the C0253 fault code.

9. Is it necessary to reset the fault code after repairing the Electronic Brake Control Module issue?

- It is recommended to clear the fault code using an OBDII scanner after repairing the Electronic Brake Control Module issue to ensure the ABS system registers the repair and operates correctly.

10. How much can one expect to pay for repairing the Electronic Brake Control Module Control Valve Circuit Malfunction?

- The cost of repairing the Electronic Brake Control Module issue can vary depending on the extent of the problem, the parts needed for replacement, and whether professional labor is required, potentially ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

Discuss the causes and fixes for C0253 OBDII Code

Code C0253 comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play