C1173 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC C1173 – Park Brake Switch # 1 Released Circuit Short to Gnd

DTC C1173 meaning

DTC C1173 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a problem with the Park Brake Switch # 1 Released Circuit. Specifically, it signifies that the circuit is shorted to ground, which means that the electrical signal intended to indicate the park brake status is being interrupted or incorrectly grounded.

DTC C1173 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC C1173 may include:

• Illumination of the park brake warning light on the dashboard.
• Inability to engage or disengage the park brake properly.
• Potential issues with other systems that rely on the park brake status, such as transmission interlock.
• Erratic behavior of the vehicle’s electrical systems.

DTC C1173 causes

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of DTC C1173, including:

• A faulty park brake switch.
• Wiring issues, such as damaged or frayed wires.
• Corrosion or poor connections in the electrical circuit.
• Short circuits caused by moisture or debris.
• Faulty vehicle control modules that misinterpret the park brake status.

DTC C1173 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC C1173 can vary based on the vehicle’s design and the specific symptoms present. However, it is generally considered a moderate issue because:

• It can affect the vehicle’s ability to remain stationary when parked.
• It may lead to further electrical issues if not addressed.
• It can impact safety features that rely on the park brake status.

How to diagnose DTC C1173

To diagnose DTC C1173, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the C1173 code.
2. Inspect the park brake switch for physical damage or wear.
3. Check the wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion or damage.
4. Test the park brake switch with a multimeter to ensure it operates correctly.
5. Examine the vehicle’s wiring harness for shorts to ground.
6. Clear the code and perform a road test to see if the code returns.

How to fix DTC C1173 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC C1173, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical system.
2. Inspect and replace the park brake switch if it is found to be faulty.
3. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors in the park brake circuit.
4. Clean any corrosion from connectors and ensure all connections are secure.
5. Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
6. Test the park brake system to ensure proper operation and verify that the code does not return.

How to erase DTC C1173

To erase DTC C1173, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the vehicle’s ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the trouble codes section of the scanner.
4. Select the option to clear or erase the codes.
5. Confirm the action and wait for the scanner to indicate that the codes have been cleared.
6. Disconnect the scanner and perform a test drive to ensure the code does not reappear.

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