C0161
- Chassis
- Generic (SAE)
Get it looked at now
Driving may cause further damage or leave you stranded. Arrange service promptly rather than waiting.
ABS/TCS Brake Switch Circuit
This code is in our catalogue but has not yet been through editorial review, so the guidance below is limited to what our structured data supports. We publish deeper diagnostic content only after a code has been reviewed — here is why.
The ABS or traction control module has detected an implausible signal from the brake light switch. The switch tells the module whether the driver is braking and is used to inhibit traction control during braking.
A trouble code records what a control module measured. It does not identify which part failed. Test before replacing anything.
- Safe to drive
- Driving may cause further damage or leave you stranded. Arrange service promptly rather than waiting.
- Urgency
- Get it looked at now
- Will it pass emissions
- Not affected
- Check engine light
- Varies
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Many vehicles show no symptom at all beyond the warning light. The absence of a symptom does not mean the fault is not real.
| # | Cause | How often | Component |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake light switch failed or misadjusted | Very common | — |
| 2 | Wiring or connector fault | Common | — |
Ordering reflects how often each cause is responsible in general, not a probability for your vehicle. Confirm by testing.
- Brake Light Switch
- ABS Control Module
- Tcs Control Module
- Definition
- Generic code set (SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6) via the OBDexopen database, dedicated to the public domain under CC0-1.0.
- Diagnostic guidance
- Written and reviewed in-house. See our editorial policy.
- Review status
- Awaiting review
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