GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptors

DTC C0163: Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Switch Circuit Malfunction

DTC C0164: Antilock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System (TCS) Brake Switch Circuit Malfunction

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

B+

1

1

--

--

Stop Lamp Switch Signal

--

C0163

C0164

--

1. Stop Lamp Switch Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) monitors the stop lamp switch signal circuit to know when the brake pedal is pressed. The EBCM uses this input for antilock brake system (ABS) functions and HydroMax pump motor control.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

C0163

The EBCM detects an open in the stop lamp switch signal circuit.

C0164

The EBCM detects a short to voltage in the stop lamp switch signal circuit.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The service brake soon indicator illuminates.
    • A fast rate audible chime turns ON.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The conditions for setting the DTC are no longer present.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Hydraulic Brake Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Brake Warning System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, observe the scan tool EBCM Brake Switch Status parameter while pressing and releasing the brake pedal. The reading should change between Off and On.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the stop lamp switch.
  2. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the B+ circuit terminal B and ground.
  3. If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the B+ circuit terminal B for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal and the control circuit fuse block I/P Circuit Breaker 25 is open, test the signal circuit terminal for a short to ground.
  4. Verify the scan tool EBCM Brake Switch Status parameter is Off.
  5. If not the specified value, test the stop lamp switch signal circuit terminal A for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
  6. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal A and the B+ circuit terminal B. Verify the scan tool EBCM brake switch is On.
  7. If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the EBCM.
  8. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the stop lamp switch.

Component Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the stop lamp switch.
  2. Test for infinite resistance between the signal terminal A and the control terminal B with the switch in the open position.
  3. If not the specified value, replace the stop lamp switch.
  4. Test for less than 5 ohms between the signal terminal A and the control terminal B with the switch in the closed position.
  5. If greater than the specified range, replace the stop lamp switch.
  6. Test for infinite resistance between each terminal and the stop lamp switch housing case.
  7. If not the specified value, replace the stop lamp switch.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Stop Lamp Switch Adjustment
    •  Stop Lamp Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming