OBD-II DTC C1174 – Park Brake Switch # 2 Applied Circuit Failure
DTC C1174 meaning
DTC C1174 refers to a diagnostic trouble code indicating a failure in the Park Brake Switch # 2 Applied Circuit. This code is part of the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) system, which monitors various vehicle systems for faults. The Park Brake Switch is responsible for signaling whether the parking brake is engaged or not. When the system detects an issue with this switch, it triggers the C1174 code.
DTC C1174 symptoms
Common symptoms associated with DTC C1174 may include:
- Warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the parking brake light.
- Inability to shift out of park.
- Unexpected activation of the parking brake.
- Erratic behavior of other related systems, such as the transmission or stability control.
DTC C1174 causes
Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC C1174, including:
- Faulty Park Brake Switch # 2.
- Wiring issues, such as shorts or open circuits in the switch circuit.
- Corrosion or poor connections at the switch or related connectors.
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or other control modules.
DTC C1174 seriousness
The seriousness of DTC C1174 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 shift gears safely.
- It may lead to unintended activation of the parking brake, posing a safety risk.
- Ignoring the code could lead to further electrical issues or damage.
How to diagnose DTC C1174
To diagnose DTC C1174, follow these steps:
- Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the C1174 code.
- Inspect the Park Brake Switch # 2 for physical damage or wear.
- Check the wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion, shorts, or breaks.
- Test the Park Brake Switch with a multimeter to ensure it operates correctly.
- Examine the vehicle’s ECM for any related fault codes or issues.
How to fix DTC C1174 step-by-step instructions
To fix DTC C1174, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Start by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety.
- Locate the Park Brake Switch # 2 and inspect it for damage.
- If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.
- Check the wiring harness and connectors for any signs of damage or corrosion.
- Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors as necessary.
- Reconnect the battery and clear the DTC using an OBD-II scanner.
- Test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue is resolved and the code does not return.
How to erase DTC C1174
To erase DTC C1174, follow these steps:
- Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Turn on the vehicle’s ignition without starting the engine.
- Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear DTCs” option on the scanner.
- Follow the prompts to clear the trouble code from the system.
- Disconnect the scanner and turn off the ignition.
- Start the vehicle and monitor for any reoccurrence of the code.
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