What it means
Park brake control module reports a performance fault on its actuator drive circuit.
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 park brake control module drives the actuator circuit to apply or release the parking brake and monitors whether the circuit performs as expected. C0616 indicates a performance fault, which may reflect a poor connection, unstable supply voltage, a binding actuator load, or a module problem.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Damaged wiring or poor connection in the control circuit
- Actuator load or mechanism binding
- Low or unstable system voltage
- Park brake control module fault
Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
How to diagnose it
- Use a brake-capable scan tool to save freeze-frame data, review related codes, and identify when the control-circuit performance fault occurs.
- Check battery and charging-system condition and inspect the park brake module's power and ground connections for looseness or corrosion.
- Inspect the module control-circuit wiring, connectors, and actuator connections for damage, corrosion, or poor contact.
- Command park brake apply and release with the scan tool, observing module data and whether the actuator load responds consistently.
- If supply and wiring checks pass, inspect the actuator mechanism for binding and test the module circuit against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Restore a weak or unstable battery supply and repair loose module power or ground connections.
- Repair damaged wiring or poor connections in the park brake module control circuit.
- Free a binding actuator mechanism that is placing an abnormal load on the circuit.
- Replace the park brake control module only after wiring, voltage, and actuator checks rule out other causes.
Can I keep driving?
The parking brake may not apply or release reliably, and ABS or stability functions may be limited. Do not rely on the parking brake to secure the vehicle; if normal braking is affected, stop safely and arrange repair before driving further.
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.