P057C code — how to fix error fast

Out of all the OBD2 codes you can get i your car, the P057C is among those that don’t seem so serious, yet can cause some pretty bothersome safety issues. At least that’s what you’ll find out if you dig deeper into the P057C code meaning, but what does it truly mean for your car?

Join us if you wish to figure out how to diagnose the issue behind the code among all the potential causes and fix it without breaking the bank. Our team of experts will discuss how you can clear this code in the best way possible through this guide, as well as how you can prevent it from re-occurring.

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What does the P057C code mean?

The P057C code is a fault code that is triggered when the Brake Switch A/B correlation circuit is detected to be out of range. This code is usually associated with the brake light switch circuit and can indicate a fault in the switch itself or the wiring that connects it to the vehicle’s computer system.

When this code is triggered, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including brake lights that stay on or don’t come on at all a loss of cruise control functionality, and an inability to shift out of the park gear.

What causes the P057C code?

There are several potential causes of the P057C code, including a faulty brake switch, damaged wiring or connectors, a failed brake lamp relay, or a malfunctioning electronic control module (ECM). Let’s take a closer look at each of these potential causes:

Faulty brake switch

The most common cause of the P057C code is a faulty brake switch. This can happen if the switch is worn out, damaged, or simply not functioning properly. When the switch fails, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including brake lights that stay on or don’t come on at all, a loss of cruise control functionality, and an inability to shift out of park.

Damaged wiring or connectors

Another potential cause of the code is damaged wiring or connectors. This can happen if the wiring is exposed to the elements or if it is damaged during routine maintenance. When the wiring is damaged, it can cause the brake switch circuit to fail, triggering this code.

Failed brake lamp relay

The brake lamp relay is responsible for controlling the brake lights in your vehicle. If this relay fails, it can cause the brake lights to stay on or not come on at all, which can trigger the code. In some cases, a failed brake lamp relay can also cause other electrical issues in your vehicle.

Malfunctioning ECM

Finally, a malfunctioning electronic control module (ECM) can also cause the P057C code. The ECM is responsible for monitoring various systems in your vehicle and can trigger fault codes if it detects a problem. If the ECM is malfunctioning, it can detect a fault in the brake switch circuit even if there isn’t one.

Which car models does the P057C code affect the most?

The P057C code can affect a wide range of car models, but it is most commonly found in vehicles that use a brake switch to control the brake lights. This includes many makes and models of cars, trucks, and SUVs, including the following ones:

• Ford Focus: The 2012-2018 Ford Focus models have been known to experience issues with the brake switch, which can trigger the P057C code. Ford has issued several recalls related to this problem.
• Chevy Cruze: The 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze is another model that has been plagued by brake switch issues.
• Jeep Cherokee: The 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee is another vehicle that may experience problems with the brake switch, leading to the code’s activation.

How to diagnose the P057C code

Diagnosing this code can be tricky, as there are several potential causes of the fault. However, there are a few steps you can take to narrow down the issue and determine the root cause of the problem. Here are some diagnostic methods that can be used to diagnose the P057C code:

Using an OBD2 scanner

One of the easiest ways to diagnose the P057C code is to use a scan tool. A scan tool can read the fault codes stored in your vehicle’s computer system and provide you with information about the problem. Using a scan tool, you can determine the exact cause of the code and take steps to fix it.

Checking the wiring

If you suspect that the problem is related to the wiring or connectors, you can check these components for damage or wear. Look for signs of corrosion, frayed wires, or loose connections, and replace or repair any damaged components.

Testing the brake switch

If you suspect that the problem is related to the brake switch, you can perform a simple test to determine if the switch is functioning properly. To do this, you’ll need a multimeter and a wiring diagram for your vehicle. Using the multimeter, you can test the resistance of the brake switch and determine if it is within the manufacturer’s specifications.

How to fix the P057C code

Once you’ve diagnosed the P057C code, you can take steps to fix it. The specific steps you’ll need to take will depend on the root cause of the problem. Here are some potential fixes for each cause of the code:

Faulty brake switch

If the brake switch is found to be faulty, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple fix that can usually be done in a few minutes with basic tools.

Damaged wiring or connectors

If the wiring or connectors are damaged, they will need to be repaired or replaced. This can be a more involved process, requiring the removal of interior panels or other components to access the wiring.

Failed brake lamp relay

If the brake lamp relay has failed, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple fix that can usually be done in a few minutes with basic tools.

Faulty ECM

If the ECM is malfunctioning, it will need to be repaired or replaced. This is a more involved process that may require professional assistance.

How to prevent the P057C code

To prevent the P057C code from occurring in the future, there are a few preventative measures you can take. Here are some tips for maintaining the affected system:

• Perform regular maintenance
• Look for any signs of brake switch damage
• Check your brake light
• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule

If you are unsure how to diagnose or fix the code, or if you don’t have the necessary tools or experience, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your vehicle is safe to drive.

Our take

Overall, the code P057C doesn’t seem like an issue that could affect your engine or transmission, but it turns out to be a pretty serious problem after all. This is especially the case if you don’t keep up with proper maintenance of your vehicle, which is why we hope that this guide will motivate you to handle it promptly and give you the right tools to do so.