OBD-II fault code

C05D5: Brake Master Cylinder Cut Off Valve

What it means

Fault on master cylinder cut-off valve — used in brake-by-wire systems to isolate the master cylinder during normal electric boost.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the ABS or stability-control warning light
  • The engine or gearbox may go into limp mode

How it works

In some brake-by-wire systems, a master-cylinder cut-off valve isolates the master cylinder during normal electric boost. The brake control module monitors the valve's electrical operation and response; this code indicates a valve or control fault that can affect the intended braking mode.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Cut-off valve stuck or mechanically binding
  2. Valve coil open or shorted
  3. Damaged wiring or poor connector contact
  4. Hydraulic control module fault

Symptoms

  • ABS warning light on
  • ESC/stability control may be disabled

How to diagnose it

  1. Read brake-module freeze-frame and live data for cut-off-valve command and feedback, and check for related hydraulic or power-supply codes.
  2. Inspect the valve connector and nearby harness for loose pins, corrosion, fluid contamination, or damaged insulation.
  3. Check the valve circuit fuse, supply, ground, and wiring continuity against the manufacturer's specification.
  4. Test the valve coil and command response using the manufacturer's procedure, checking for an open, short, or valve that does not move as commanded.
  5. If the circuit and valve pass, follow the service procedure to assess hydraulic binding and the brake control module.

Common fixes

  • Repair a loose, corroded, or damaged cut-off-valve connector or harness.
  • Replace a failed fuse after correcting the cause of the fuse failure.
  • Replace a cut-off valve with a confirmed electrical or mechanical fault.
  • Repair the hydraulic control module fault if the valve and circuit test correctly.

Can I keep driving?

Treat this as a brake-system fault: have the vehicle checked promptly and avoid driving if pedal feel or braking response is abnormal. The system may limit brake-by-wire, ABS, or stability-control functions.

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.

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