AutoCodes – Buick – C1291 Buick

C1291 Buick Code - Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration

Quick Answer

The stop lamp switch signal informs the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) when the brake pedal is pressed. Common causes include Faulty Brake Lamp Switch, Brake Lamp Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Lamp 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
C1291 Buick indicates Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Brake Lamp Switch, Brake Lamp Switch harness is open or shorted, Brake Lamp 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 1,261
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 03, 2020
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Code C1291 Buick Description

The stop lamp switch signal informs the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) when the brake pedal is pressed. The EBCM sets the OBDII code when the Brake Lamp Switch is not to factory specifications.
OBDII Code C1291 Buick - Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration - AutoCodes.com
C1291 Buick Code - Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1291 Buick?

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

How to Fix the DTC C1291 Buick?

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 C1291 Buick 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 C1291 Buick Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1291 in a Buick related to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

The common symptoms include the brake lights staying on constantly or not working at all, traction control or stability control warning lights illuminating on the dashboard, and potential issues with the vehicle's cruise control system.

2. What could be the possible causes of OBDII code C1291 in a Buick indicating open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

The possible causes could be a faulty brake lamp switch, damaged wiring or connectors in the brake light circuit, or a problem with the brake light control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code C1291 in my Buick related to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

You can start by checking the brake lamp switch for proper operation, inspecting the wiring and connectors for any damage or corrosion, and testing the brake light control module for faults using a diagnostic scanner.

4. Is it safe to continue driving my Buick with OBDII code C1291 indicating open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this issue unresolved, as it can affect the proper functioning of your brake lights, traction control system, and potentially compromise your safety on the road.

5. Can I repair OBDII code C1291 in my Buick indicating open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration on my own?

Depending on your level of automotive repair experience, you may be able to address this issue by replacing the faulty brake lamp switch, repairing damaged wiring, or troubleshooting the brake light control module. However, professional assistance may be necessary for complex repairs.

6. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code C1291 in a Buick related to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $50 to $200 for parts and labor, excluding diagnostic fees.

7. Are there any preventive measures I can take to avoid OBDII code C1291 in my Buick due to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

Regularly inspecting the brake light system, including the brake lamp switch and wiring, for any signs of wear or damage can help prevent this issue. Additionally, promptly addressing any brake light-related problems can prevent more serious issues from occurring.

8. Will resetting the OBDII code C1291 in my Buick related to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration resolve the underlying problem?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the warning lights on the dashboard, but it will not fix the root cause of the issue. It is important to diagnose and address the underlying problem to prevent the code from reoccurring.

9. Can OBDII code C1291 in a Buick indicating open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration affect the vehicle's performance?

While the code itself may not directly impact the vehicle's performance, it can lead to safety concerns such as malfunctioning brake lights or traction control systems, which can affect overall driving experience and safety.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C1291 in a Buick related to open brake lamp switch contacts during deceleration?

The repair time can vary based on the complexity of the issue and the extent of the repairs needed. In general, it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours to address this problem, depending on the skill level of the person performing the repairs.

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