What it means
Brake Hydraulic Circuit B Leak: a leak has been detected in this brake-hydraulic circuit, which reduces braking pressure. Safety-critical.
At a glance
- Usually lights the ABS or stability-control warning light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
Brake hydraulic circuit B carries pressurised brake fluid as part of the vehicle’s braking system. This code indicates that pressure or fluid loss points to a leak in circuit B, which can reduce braking force and alter pedal feel.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Leak in brake hydraulic circuit B
- Damaged brake line or hose
- Leaking hydraulic component or connection
Symptoms
- Brake warning light
- Reduced braking performance or a change in brake-pedal feel
- Possible fluid loss
How to diagnose it
- If the brake warning is on or the pedal feels abnormal, stop safely and do not continue driving; check the fluid reservoir only if it is safe to do so.
- Inspect accessible circuit B brake lines and hoses for wetness, damage, or fluid trails, taking care not to confuse them with circuit A.
- Check circuit B connections and hydraulic components for fresh fluid leakage.
- Have the circuit B leak location confirmed and repaired, then inspect the rest of the hydraulic system for fluid loss.
- After repair, verify fluid level, pedal feel, and system operation using the manufacturer’s procedure.
Common fixes
- Replace a leaking or damaged circuit B brake line or hose.
- Repair a leaking circuit B connection.
- Replace or repair the leaking hydraulic component in circuit B.
- Restore fluid level and bleed the brake system according to the manufacturer’s procedure.
Can I keep driving?
Do not drive with a suspected circuit B leak, reduced braking, or a changed pedal; braking can worsen suddenly. Arrange recovery and have the brakes repaired and checked before driving again.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.