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 C0267: Low Brake Fluid Indicated

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Brake Fluid Level Sensor Signal

C0267

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Circuit/System Description

The brake fluid level switch monitors the level of brake fluid in the master cylinder. When the instrument panel cluster (IPC) sees the brake fluid level switch input grounded, it turns ON the Red Brake Warning indicator and sends a serial data message to the electronic brake control module (EBCM) indicating the brake fluid level is low.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Low brake fluid is detected.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the antilock brake system (ABS), traction control system (TCS), dynamic rear proportion (DRP), and vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES).
    • The ABS indicator is illuminated.
    • The Traction Control indicator is illuminated.
    • The Red Brake Warning indicator is illuminated.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A current DTC will clear when the fault is no longer present.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive fault-free drive cycles.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Hydraulic Brake Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Hydraulic Brake 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

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, verify brake fluid in the master cylinder reservoir is above the minimum level.

If fluid level is below the minimum, refer to Brake Fluid Loss .

Circuit/System Testing

Important: This test should only be performed if brake fluid is above the minimum level.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the brake fluid level switch.
  2. Ignition OFF, Test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the ground circuit terminal A and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
  4. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool IPC Brake Fluid parameter is OK.
  5. If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
  6. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal B and the ground circuit terminal A. Verify the scan tool IPC Brake Fluid parameter is Low.
  7. If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
  8. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the brake fluid level switch.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Brake Fluid Level Indicator Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for IPC replacement, setup, and programming