What it means
The brake booster solenoid circuit voltage is below the expected range. The brake booster system may not operate as intended.
At a glance
- Usually lights the ABS or stability-control warning light
- The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode
How it works
The brake booster solenoid circuit carries the electrical control for a brake-assist function. This code sets when the circuit voltage is below its expected range, which can happen if the control wire is grounded or a connection has excessive resistance.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Wiring shorted to ground
- Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
- Harness chafing through insulation
Symptoms
- Brake or ABS warning light
- Brake assist may be reduced, depending on the system
How to diagnose it
- Read brake-module freeze-frame and live data to confirm when the solenoid circuit voltage fell and whether brake-assist commands were affected.
- Inspect the solenoid connector for corrosion, moisture, loose terminals, or poor pin contact.
- Check the harness for chafing or crushed insulation that could let the control wire contact ground.
- Use the wiring diagram to test the solenoid circuit for a short to ground and check connector voltage and continuity.
- If wiring and connections pass, test the solenoid and module output against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Clean and secure corroded or loose solenoid connector terminals.
- Repair chafed wiring that is contacting ground.
- Replace a solenoid that fails its electrical test.
- Repair the module output circuit only if testing isolates the fault to the module.
Can I keep driving?
Brake assist may be reduced, which can make the pedal harder to press or increase stopping distance. Limit driving and avoid situations that require sudden braking; stop if braking feel changes significantly.
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.