GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

This DTC identifies a malfunction within the electronic brake control module (EBCM).

DTC Descriptors

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTCs:

    • DTC C1255 Loss of Class 2 Communication
    • DTC C1256 EBCM/ECTCM Internal Malfunction

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ABS conditions and the braking conditions are normal.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

An internal EBCM malfunction exists.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

C1255

If equipped, the following actions occur:

    • The EBCM disables the ABS for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The DRP does not function optimally.
    • The ABS indicator turns ON.
    • For some DTC C1255xx, the EBCM disables the TCS for the duration of the ignition cycle and the Traction Off indicator turns ON.
    • For some occurrences of DTC C1255xx, the EBCM disables the variable effort steering (VES) for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • For some occurrences of DTC C1255xx, the EBCM temporarily disables the TIM function for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • For some occurrences of DTC C1255xx, the EBCM disables the DRP for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • When the EBCM disables the DRP, the red Brake warning indicator turns ON.

C1256

    • The ABS remains functional.
    • The ABS indicator remains OFF.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool.
    • The electronic brake control module (EBCM) automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

The scan tool displays 2 additional characters after the DTC. Take note of the 2 character code and any other DTCs that are set. The 2 character code is an engineering aid used in order to determine the cause of the internal malfunction.

Test Description

The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.

  1. Determines whether the DTC is current.

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Antilock Brake System Schematics

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information

2

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  4. With the scan tool, perform the Automated Test.

Does the DTC reset as a current DTC?

Go to Step 3

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

3

Replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM). Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 4

--

4

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. With the scan tool, perform the Automated Test.

Does the DTC reset?

Go to Step 2

System OK