AutoCodes – Pontiac – C1242 Pontiac

C1242 Pontiac Code - Pump Motor Circuit 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: C1242 Pontiac indicates Pump Motor Circuit 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.

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Code Popularity 1,744

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 29, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1242 Pontiac Description

The system relay is energized when the ignition is ON. The system relay supplies voltage to the solenoid valves and the pump motor. This voltage is referred to as the system voltage. The Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) controls each solenoid valve by grounding the solenoid. The EBCM controls the pump motor by grounding the control circuit. The pump serves 2 purposes:
- 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

OBDII Code C1242 Pontiac - Pump Motor Circuit Open - AutoCodes.com — C1242 Pontiac Code - Pump Motor Circuit Open

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1242 Pontiac?

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 C1242 Pontiac?

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 C1242 Pontiac 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 C1242 Pontiac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- Common symptoms may include an illuminated ABS warning light on the dashboard, loss of anti-lock braking system (ABS) functionality, and potential difficulty in braking.

2. What does the OBDII code C1242 Pontiac indicate?

- The code C1242 indicates a malfunction in the pump motor circuit, specifically an open circuit, in the Pontiac's anti-lock braking system.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- Potential causes may include a faulty ABS pump motor, damaged wiring or connectors in the circuit, a blown ABS fuse, or a malfunctioning ABS control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- Diagnosing the code typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the specific fault codes, checking the ABS fuse for continuity, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the ABS pump motor for proper operation.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- It is not recommended to drive with a malfunctioning anti-lock braking system, as it can compromise braking performance and overall vehicle safety. It is advisable to address the issue promptly.

6. Can I repair OBDII code C1242 Pontiac on my own?

- Repairing the code may require advanced automotive knowledge and specialized tools. It is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or technician to accurately diagnose and repair the issue.

7. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- The cost of fixing the code can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue, parts needed for replacement, and labor costs. It is recommended to obtain a detailed quote from a trusted repair shop.

8. What are some tips for preventing OBDII code C1242 Pontiac from recurring?

- Regularly inspecting the ABS system, maintaining proper vehicle care, and addressing any warning lights promptly can help prevent the code from recurring in the future.

9. Can OBDII code C1242 Pontiac cause other problems in the vehicle?

- While the code specifically relates to the ABS pump motor circuit, unresolved issues with the anti-lock braking system can potentially lead to compromised braking performance and safety concerns.

10. How long does it take to repair OBDII code C1242 Pontiac?

- The repair time can vary depending on the complexity of the issue, availability of parts, and the expertise of the technician. It is advisable to consult with the repair shop for an accurate estimate of the repair duration.