Chassis, generic

C0072 Brake Temperature Too High

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

Set when the brake or stability module estimates that brake temperature has risen above a safe threshold. Few vehicles measure rotor temperature directly; most run a thermal model that integrates braking force, speed and time to estimate how hot the brakes are, and warn or adapt control when overheating is likely, for example on a long descent. The code is stored when the modelled or measured temperature exceeds the limit, prompting a driver warning and sometimes reduced regenerative blending or electronic brake-force changes. It is advisory and protective rather than a wiring fault; braking and ABS continue. Persistent setting can indicate a dragging brake or an implausible model input. The entry follows the SAE J2012 generic definition and electronic brake-system thermal modelling.

Likely causes

Brakes overheated on a long descent
Dragging brake or stuck caliper
Implausible input to the thermal model

Symptoms

  • Brake temperature warning to driver
  • Reduced regenerative braking blend
  • Brake fade on long descents

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–600
Time0.3–2.5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

brakes

Related codes

C004FC0021C0082

References: patents.google.com, en.wikipedia.org.