Chassis, generic

C0136 Stop Lamp Switch Circuit

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

No public J2012 list, NHTSA bulletin or manufacturer table carries C0136, so it cannot be matched to a vehicle. Its title is word for word that of C0205, and at GM the brake switch input of ABS/TCS modules is C0161; which number a given car uses can only come from its own service data. The function itself is well described. Bosch patented a monitor for ABS and traction control units that stores a suspected short or stuck switch when the signal is already present at ignition-on, and an open line when no signal appears during a later drive; with automatic gearboxes it waits for three repeats. A second Bosch patent rechecks a switch reported stuck high by demanding a clean low-high-low pattern at standstill. Stop lamps and cruise control share this signal.

Likely causes

Brake light switch misadjusted, worn or sticking
Open or short in the switch circuit or connector
Blown stop lamp fuse

Symptoms

  • Stop lamps stay on or do not work
  • Cruise control will not engage or cancels
  • ABS or stability warning lamp may come on

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€20–150
Time0.2–1 h

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

Parts involved

brake light switchabs control modulewiring

Related codes

C0205C0161C0040

References: patents.google.com, patents.google.com.