C0785 - Understanding the Traction Control System Malfunction in 2015-2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Quick Answer

C0785 means: DTC C0785 indicates a malfunction in the traction control system related to the electric parking brake.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $300 - $600 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with C0785? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure vehicle safety and proper function.

Common Questions

What does C0785 mean and how does it affect my car?

C0785 signifies a malfunction in the electric parking brake system, which can impair your vehicle's traction control and overall safety. It may lead to issues like the parking brake not engaging or disengaging properly, putting your vehicle at risk of rolling if parked improperly.

What are the most common causes of C0785 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes include a faulty parking brake actuator, damaged wiring, and software issues. Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring fixes to $600 for actuator replacement.

Can I drive my car with C0785 or should I stop immediately?

It's best to address C0785 promptly. Driving with this code can compromise your vehicle's traction control and parking brake functionality, increasing the risk of accidents.

How can I diagnose C0785 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for codes, view freeze frame data, and monitor live sensor readings to diagnose the issue related to C0785. Look for any irregularities in the electric parking brake system.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0785?

C0785 is commonly seen in 2015-2018 Chevrolet Silverado models. It's advisable to check for any recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the electric parking brake system if you own this vehicle.

How can I prevent C0785 from happening again?

Regular vehicle maintenance, including periodic checks of the braking system and keeping the wiring clean and free from corrosion, can help prevent C0785 from recurring.

What is C0785?

DTC C0785 indicates a problem with the traction control system, specifically related to the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system in vehicles like the 2015-2018 Chevrolet Silverado. This code reflects an issue where the system has detected a malfunction in the components responsible for controlling the electric parking brake, which can lead to decreased vehicle safety and performance. In practical terms, when this code is triggered, the traction control may be disabled, leading to reduced grip on slippery surfaces, especially in adverse weather conditions. It may also result in the parking brake not functioning properly, which is critical for vehicle safety. Owners may notice warning lights on their dashboards, which signal that immediate attention is required. Ignoring this code can lead to more severe issues, including complete failure of the parking brake system, risking the vehicle rolling away if parked on an incline. Therefore, understanding and addressing this code is vital for maintaining vehicle safety and reliability.

System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when C0785 is present:

  • Check engine light illuminates, often accompanied by a warning message on the dashboard about the traction control system.
  • Unresponsive electric parking brake, making it difficult to secure the vehicle when parked.
  • Traction control warning light activates, which may cause the vehicle to lose grip during acceleration or when making sharp turns.
  • Increased stopping distance on slippery surfaces due to the traction control system being disabled.
  • Possible abnormal sounds from the braking system when the traction control engages or attempts to function.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of C0785 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of DTC C0785 is a faulty electric parking brake actuator, with a likelihood of around 40%. This component is responsible for engaging and disengaging the parking brake, and if it fails, it can trigger the code.
  2. Second most common cause is damaged wiring or connectors related to the electric parking brake system. Corrosion or wear can lead to poor connections, which have a likelihood of 25% of triggering this code.
  3. A third cause includes software issues within the vehicle's control module, with a 20% likelihood. Sometimes, a simple software update can resolve the problem.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a failing traction control module, which can have a likelihood of about 10%. It may require replacement to resolve the code.
  5. A rare but possible cause is a malfunctioning brake pedal position sensor, which can trigger the C0785 code if it fails to communicate the brake status properly.

C0785 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Electric Parking Brake Actuator Replacement

Replacing the faulty electric parking brake actuator that triggers the C0785 code.

  • Total: $300 - $600
  • Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring and connectors associated with the electric parking brake system.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 80%
Control Module Update

Updating the software of the vehicle's control module to fix any software-related issues.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for C0785
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional C0785 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0785. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion in the electric parking brake wiring harness (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion in the electric parking brake wiring harness (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context, helping to pinpoint the issue related to C0785 (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context, helping to pinpoint the issue related to C0785 (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the electric parking brake actuator and related components

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the electric parking brake actuator and related components. Check for continuity and proper voltage (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After making any repairs, verify that the electric parking brake system operates correctly and clear the codes from the memory (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - After making any repairs, verify that the electric parking brake system operates correctly and clear the codes from the memory (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the traction control and parking brake systems are functioning properly (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the traction control and parking brake systems are functioning properly (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: Electric Parking Brake Actuator Replacement on 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 75,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported the traction control light was on and parking brake was unresponsive.

Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed DTC C0785. A visual inspection showed corrosion on the actuator wiring.

Solution: Replaced the electric parking brake actuator and repaired the wiring connections.

Cost: $450 (including parts and labor)

Result: Traction control and parking brake functions restored, with no further issues reported.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair for C0785 on 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe

Vehicle: 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer experienced intermittent traction control issues and warning lights.

Diagnosis: OBD scan revealed C0785 and visual inspection indicated frayed wiring.

Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and secured connections.

Cost: $200 (including labor)

Result: All systems functioning normally, with no warning lights after repair.

Diagnose C0785

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: C0785
System: Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Chassis Codes