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 Descriptor

DTC C0179 00: System Thermal High

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) monitors how often the traction control system (TCS) activates in order to calculate an estimate of the EBCM solenoid valve temperatures. In most cases high solenoid valve temperatures are caused by extended TCS activation. If the EBCM calculates that the solenoid valve temperatures are too high, the EBCM will temporarily suspend the TCS function until the solenoid valves cool.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • Ignition voltage is greater than 8 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The estimated solenoid coil temperature reaches 220°C (428°F).

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the TCS for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The vehicle dynamics caution (VDC) indicator illuminates.
    • The driver information center (DIC) displays the TRACTION OFF message.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • After the solenoid valves have cooled the EBCM automatically re-enables TCS function.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

Most occurrences of this DTC are caused by excessive TCS activation or braking.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

ABS 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 EBCM

Circuit/System Testing

Important: Allow the brakes to cool down before performing this test.

  1. With a scan tool, clear the DTC.
  2. With a scan tool connected, test drive the vehicle under normal braking conditions and without causing TCS or ABS activation. Verify DTC C0179 does not reset.
  3. If DTC C0179 resets, replace the EBCM.
  4. Refer to Diagnostic Aids.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification

Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming.