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 54: System Thermal Temperature High

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) monitors Traction Control System (TCS) activation 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

    • Ignition 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 driver information center (DIC) displays the SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL message.
    • The DIC displays the Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) inhibited.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • After the solenoid valves have cooled the EBCM automatically re-enables TCS function.
    • The EBCM 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 brakes to cool down before performing test.

  1. With scan tool clear the DTC.
  2. With scan tool connected test drive the vehicle under normal braking conditions and without causing TC or ABS activation. Verify DTC C0179 resets.
  3. If the DTC resets replace the EBCM.
  4. Refer to Diagnostic Aids.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming