WOMS
C code chassis Medium severity

C1173 Park Brake Switch # 1 Released Circuit Short to Gnd

The OBD2 code C1173 indicates that there is a short circuit to ground in the Park Brake Switch #1 Released circuit, meaning the system detects that the switch is not functioning correctly when it should be indicating...

Definition

The OBD2 code C1173 indicates that there is a short circuit to ground in the Park Brake Switch #1 Released circuit, meaning the system detects that the switch is not functioning correctly when it should be indicating that the parking brake is released

Common causes

  • Faulty park brake switch
  • Damaged wiring or connectors
  • Short circuit in the wiring harness
  • Corroded or loose connections
  • Malfunctioning brake control module
  • Grounding issues in the circuit

Common misdiagnoses

  • Faulty park brake switch
  • Wiring issues or shorts in the harness
  • Faulty brake control module
  • Corroded connectors
  • Malfunctioning instrument cluster
  • Issues with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) module
  • Faulty ground connections

Troubleshooting steps

  1. 1. Understand the Code

    C1173 typically means that the vehicle's computer has detected a short circuit in the park brake switch circuit, indicating that the switch is always reading as "released" when it should not be

  2. 2. Visual Inspection

    Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the park brake switch. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections

  3. 3. Park Brake Switch

    Check the park brake switch itself for any visible damage or wear

  4. 4. Check the Park Brake Switch

    Functionality Test: Use a multimeter to test the park brake switch. When the brake is engaged, the switch should show continuity; when released, it should not

  5. 5. Bypass Test

    Temporarily bypass the switch to see if the code clears. If it does, the switch may be faulty

  6. 6. Inspect the Ground Circuit

    Ground Connections: Check the ground connections related to the park brake switch. Ensure they are clean and secure

  7. 7. Short to Ground

    Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the park brake switch circuit and ground. If there is continuity when the switch is not engaged, there may be a short in the wiring

  8. 8. Check for Shorts in Wiring

    Wiring Harness: Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of wear, pinching, or damage that could cause a short circuit

  9. 9. Use a Multimeter

    Measure resistance in the circuit to identify any shorts. A low resistance reading indicates a short to ground

  10. 10. Scan for Additional Codes

    Check for Other Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context or indicate related issues

  11. 11. Clear the Code

    After performing the above checks and repairs, clear the code using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns

  12. 12. Professional Help

    If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with your specific vehicle make and model. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and address the cause of the C1173 code effectively