C0242
DTC C0242 or P0856
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions Diagnostic Procedure Instructionsprovides an overview of each diagnostic category.
DTC Descriptors
DTC C0242 00
- Engine Control Module (ECM) Indicated TCS Malfunction
DTC P0856
- Traction Control Torque Request Circuit
Circuit/System Description
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) and the engine control module (ECM) simultaneously control the traction control. The EBCM sends a serial data message to the ECM requesting torque reduction. When certain ECM DTCs are set, the ECM will not be able to perform the torque reduction for traction control. A serial data message is sent to the EBCM indicating that traction control is not allowed.
Conditions for Running the DTC
Engine running.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The ECM detects a fault that prevents it from performing a traction control function and sends a serial data message to the EBCM indicating that torque reduction is not allowed.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The EBCM sends a serial data message to illuminate the appropriate warning/indicator message
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
* The EBCM clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 40 consecutive drive cycles.
Note: During normal diagnostic and/or repair verification technicians may find that the ABS, Traction Control and/or Stabilitrak indicators may be ON with NO DTCs displayed by the EBCM. Do not replace the EBCM for this condition.
If the ABS, Traction Control and/or Stabilitrak telltales are ON with no DTCs set, perform the following steps:
1. Remove the key from the ignition, open and close the driver's door to turn off retained accessory power (RAP), and wait 60 seconds.
2. Ignition ON, if the ABS, Traction Control and/or Stabilitrak telltales are still illuminated, operate the vehicle at speeds greater than 15 km/h (10 mph) to complete the self test. The EBCM should request all telltale indicators to turn OFF.
3. If the telltales remain ON with no DTCs set after the drive cycle, disconnect the battery for at least 60 seconds then reconnect the battery.
4. Operate the vehicle at speeds greater than 40 km/h (25 mph), the EBCM should request all telltale indicators to turn OFF.
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Antilock Brake System Schematics Non-Hybrid Less than 3900 kg (8600 lb) GVW
Connector End View Reference
Component Connector End Views Connector End Views By Name
Description and Operation
ABS Description and Operation ABS (Non-Hybrid Less than 3900 kg (8600 lb) GVW)
Electrical Information Reference
* Circuit Testing Circuit Testing
* Connector Repairs Connector Repairs
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
* Wiring Repairs Wiring Repairs
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References Programming and Relearningfor scan tool information
Circuit/System Verification
Verify that no DTCs are set in the ECM.
If DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle.