Short to voltage in the brake pedal position sensor supply circuit (e.g., chafed wire touching a power wire); Open circuit or high resistance in the sensor ground circuit, causing the supply voltage to float high; Faulty brake pedal position sensor; Damaged or corroded connector at the sensor or ABS module; Failed ABS control module; Aftermarket accessories improperly wired into the brake pedal circuit

DTC codes / C05xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C056E

C056EBrake Pedal Position Sensor Supply Voltage Circuit High

Q: What does code C056E mean?

Brake Pedal Position Sensor Supply Voltage Circuit High. The antilock braking system (ABS) control module has detected that the voltage supply to the brake pedal position sensor is higher than the expected range, indicating a short to voltage or an open circuit in the sensor's power feed. This fault can disable the ABS and traction control systems and may affect brake lights and cruise control operation.

The antilock braking system (ABS) control module has detected that the voltage supply to the brake pedal position sensor is higher than the expected range, indicating a short to voltage or an open circuit in the sensor's power feed. This fault can disable the ABS and traction control systems and may affect brake lights and cruise control operation.

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 illuminated
Brake pedal position sensor-related codes stored in other modules
Cruise control may become inoperative
Brake lights may stay on constantly or not work at all
Often no symptoms besides the warning light

Common causes, most likely first

Short to voltage in the brake pedal position sensor supply circuit (e.g., chafed wire touching a power wire)
Open circuit or high resistance in the sensor ground circuit, causing the supply voltage to float high
Faulty brake pedal position sensor
Damaged or corroded connector at the sensor or ABS module
Failed ABS control module
Aftermarket accessories improperly wired into the brake pedal circuit

How to diagnose and fix it

Inspect the brake pedal position sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose pins
Measure the supply voltage at the sensor connector with the key on and compare to the manufacturer's specification
Check the sensor ground circuit for continuity to chassis ground; repair any open or high-resistance ground
Disconnect the sensor and check for a short to voltage on the supply wire; repair any chafed or shorted wiring
If wiring and grounds are good, test the sensor with a multimeter or scan tool to verify its output signal
Replace the brake pedal position sensor if it fails testing
Clear the code and verify the repair by test-driving the vehicle and confirming the light stays off

What Most Techs Miss on C056E

A bad ground for the brake pedal position sensor can cause the supply voltage to read high, so always check the ground circuit before condemning the sensor.
Aftermarket accessories such as remote starters or brake controllers tapped into the brake pedal wiring often introduce shorts or backfeeds that set this code.
The ABS module may set this code even when the sensor itself is fine, due to a poor connection at the module connector or internal module fault.
On some vehicles, the brake pedal position sensor is part of a complex assembly that also includes the brake light switch, so replacing only the sensor may not fix the issue.
This code can be stored intermittently due to vibration or temperature changes, so a wiggle test of the harness while monitoring live data can reveal the fault.

Can I keep driving with C056E?

The vehicle remains drivable in most cases, but the ABS and traction control systems may be disabled, increasing stopping distances in emergency situations. Avoid driving in slippery conditions or at high speeds until the fault is repaired, and be aware that brake lights may not function correctly.

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.