Quick Answer
C0861 means: C0861 indicates a communication issue between the body control module and the electronic parking brake system.
Can I drive with C0861? Immediate attention is recommended to prevent safety hazards.
Common Questions
What does C0861 mean and how does it affect my car?
C0861 indicates a communication failure between the body control module and the electronic parking brake system. This can affect your vehicle's ability to securely engage the parking brake, leading to potential safety issues and unreliable vehicle operation.
What are the most common causes of C0861 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include damaged wiring (60% likelihood), faulty body control modules, and corrosion at connectors. Repair costs can range from $150 for wiring repairs to $800 for BCM replacements.
Can I drive my car with C0861 or should I stop immediately?
It’s advisable to address C0861 as soon as possible. Driving with an unresolved issue could lead to a malfunctioning parking brake, increasing the risk of your vehicle rolling unexpectedly.
How can I diagnose C0861 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can perform a scan to read the C0861 code, view freeze frame data, and check for related codes. This will help you understand the issue better and determine the next steps.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0861?
C0861 is frequently found in various GM models, particularly the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2016 GMC Sierra. Checking for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to this code is also recommended.
How can I prevent C0861 from happening again?
Regular maintenance checks, especially of electrical connections, can help prevent C0861. Additionally, using protective coatings on connectors can reduce the risk of corrosion.
What is C0861?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0861 indicates a communication issue within the vehicle's body control module (BCM) or the electronic parking brake (EPB) system. This code is prevalent in various General Motors (GM) vehicles, including models such as the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2016 GMC Sierra. When C0861 is triggered, it typically signifies that the system has detected a malfunction in the data exchange between the BCM and the EPB module. This communication failure can lead to a variety of issues, including an inability to engage or disengage the parking brake, which could pose safety risks when parking on inclines or declines. Owners may notice the parking brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard, or they might experience difficulty in applying or releasing the brake itself. If left unaddressed, this issue can worsen, potentially affecting other electrical components within the vehicle’s system. Therefore, understanding what C0861 means and how to address it is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and functionality.
System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when C0861 is present:
- The parking brake warning light illuminates on the dashboard, indicating a problem with the parking brake system.
- Difficulty in engaging or releasing the parking brake, which may require excessive force or may not function at all during operation.
- Unusual noises when attempting to activate the parking brake, such as grinding or clicking sounds, suggesting mechanical issues.
- Inconsistent operation of the parking brake, where it may engage intermittently or not hold the vehicle securely.
- Potential electrical issues, such as other dashboard warning lights activating or erratic behavior from other electronic systems.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of C0861 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of C0861 is a faulty connection or damaged wiring between the body control module and the electronic parking brake system, with a likelihood of about 60%.
- A malfunctioning body control module itself can also trigger this code, leading to improper communication; these issues may arise from software glitches or physical damage.
- Corrosion at connectors or terminals can disrupt signal transmission, which can be mitigated by regular maintenance checks to clean and protect electrical connections.
- Less common but serious causes include issues with the electronic parking brake actuator, which can lead to complete failure of the parking brake if not resolved.
- A rare possibility is a software issue within the BCM that may require a software update or reprogramming to rectify.
C0861 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors related to the BCM and EPB system.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
BCM Replacement
Replacing the body control module if it is found to be faulty.
- Total: $400 - $800
- Success rate: 90%
Software Update
Reprogramming or updating the BCM software to resolve communication issues.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for C0861
- 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 C0861 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0861. 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, which typically takes 5-10 minutes
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion, which typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context, usually around 10-15 minutes
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context, usually around 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, which can take 20-30 minutes
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components, which can take 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After making repairs, verify proper operation and clear codes, typically around 10-15 minutes
Step 4: System function test - After making repairs, verify proper operation and clear codes, typically around 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful, which usually requires 15-20 minutes
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful, which usually requires 15-20 minutes.
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: Repair of C0861 in 2016 GMC Sierra
Vehicle: 2016 GMC Sierra, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported that the parking brake warning light was illuminated and the parking brake was not engaging.
Diagnosis: Initial inspection revealed corroded connectors at the BCM. After using the GeekOBD APP, C0861 was confirmed.
Solution: Replaced the corroded connectors and cleaned the wiring harness. Updated the BCM software.
Cost: $250 (parts: $50, labor: $200)
Result: Parking brake function restored, and no further issues were reported.
Case Study 2: C0861 Issue in 2014 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, 70,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced intermittent parking brake function and dashboard warning lights.
Diagnosis: Scanning with GeekOBD APP indicated C0861. A thorough inspection found damaged wiring.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and replaced the body control module.
Cost: $600 (parts: $500, labor: $100)
Result: Issue resolved, and the parking brake operated normally after repairs.