Faulty brake pedal stroke sensor (internal wear or contamination); Damaged or disconnected electrical connector at the sensor; Chafed, broken, or corroded wiring in the sensor circuit; Poor electrical ground for the sensor or ABS module; Brake pedal assembly mechanical binding or incorrect adjustment; Failed ABS control module (less common); Aftermarket or incorrect brake pedal components interfering with sensor travel

DTC codes / C02xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0290

C0290Brake Pedal Stroke Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Q: What does code C0290 mean?

Brake Pedal Stroke Sensor Circuit Malfunction. C0290 indicates that the antilock braking system (ABS) control module has detected an implausible or missing signal from the brake pedal stroke sensor circuit. The computer expects a specific voltage or digital pattern as the brake pedal moves through its travel, and it has logged this code because the signal is out of range, erratic, or absent.

C0290 indicates that the antilock braking system (ABS) control module has detected an implausible or missing signal from the brake pedal stroke sensor circuit. The computer expects a specific voltage or digital pattern as the brake pedal moves through its travel, and it has logged this code because the signal is out of range, erratic, or absent.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
Traction control or stability control warning light may also be on
Brake pedal feels normal in most cases, with no change in stopping power
Occasionally a soft or inconsistent brake pedal feel if the sensor is mechanically binding
Cruise control may become inoperative or disengage unexpectedly
Often no symptoms besides the warning light

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty brake pedal stroke sensor (internal wear or contamination)
Damaged or disconnected electrical connector at the sensor
Chafed, broken, or corroded wiring in the sensor circuit
Poor electrical ground for the sensor or ABS module
Brake pedal assembly mechanical binding or incorrect adjustment
Failed ABS control module (less common)
Aftermarket or incorrect brake pedal components interfering with sensor travel

How to diagnose and fix it

Connect a scan tool and read all ABS codes to confirm C0290 is current and not history
Visually inspect the brake pedal stroke sensor, its connector, and wiring for damage or corrosion
Check sensor reference voltage and ground at the connector with a digital multimeter
Perform a live data check of the brake pedal stroke sensor signal while slowly pressing and releasing the pedal
Inspect the brake pedal assembly for binding, worn bushings, or incorrect adjustment
If the signal is erratic or out of range, replace the brake pedal stroke sensor and clear codes
If the sensor and wiring test good, diagnose the ABS control module and its power/ground circuits

What the brake stroke sensor really does

The brake pedal stroke sensor is often confused with the brake pedal position switch, but the stroke sensor provides a continuous analog or digital signal of pedal travel, not just an on/off brake light signal.
A misadjusted or sticking brake pedal can set C0290 even when the sensor itself is perfectly functional, so always verify pedal mechanics before replacing parts.
The ABS module may set C0290 as a secondary code when the brake pedal stroke sensor signal is lost due to a blown fuse or a poor ground, not a failed sensor.
On some vehicles, the brake pedal stroke sensor is part of the brake pedal assembly and cannot be replaced separately, which changes the repair approach.
Clearing the code without repairing the underlying circuit issue will usually result in the code returning after a few drive cycles.

Can I keep driving with C0290?

The vehicle remains safe to drive under normal braking because the base hydraulic system is unaffected, but you should avoid hard braking or situations that require ABS activation until the fault is repaired. Have the system diagnosed promptly to restore full ABS and stability control function.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.