ABS and brakes

C0075 — Brake Pedal Position Sensor Performance / Extended Pedal Travel

Severity: high Do not drive

What C0075 means

C0075 means the brake control module received a signal from the brake pedal position sensor that doesn't match what it expects, or it detected excessive pedal travel. The sensor normally tells the module how far and how fast the pedal is pressed, and that information is used for brake lights, brake assist and stability control. The cause can be the sensor or its wiring, but also a real hydraulic or mechanical brake problem.

Symptoms

  • Brake warning light on
  • Soft or spongy brake pedal
  • Longer pedal travel before the brakes engage
  • ABS or ESC warning lights on
  • Brake lights may not work or may stay on

Possible causes

  1. Failed brake pedal position sensor
  2. Damaged wiring or corroded, loose connectors at the sensor or control module
  3. Low brake fluid, a leak or air in the lines
  4. Worn or leaking master cylinder
  5. Worn, bent or misadjusted pedal assembly or sensor mounting

How to diagnose

  1. Check brake fluid level and condition and look for signs of leaks at the reservoir
  2. Inspect lines, hoses, calipers and the master cylinder for leaks
  3. Test the pedal feel: does it sink under steady pressure, or have play or sticking
  4. Scan all ABS/ESC codes and review freeze frame data
  5. Watch the pedal sensor reading on a scan tool while pressing and releasing; it should change smoothly
  6. Inspect the sensor connector and harness, and test power, ground and signal with a multimeter
  7. Check the sensor's mounting and position on the pedal bracket

Common fixes

  • Replace the brake pedal position sensor and calibrate it with a scan tool if required
  • Repair wiring or replace a damaged connector
  • Fix leaks, bleed the brake system and top off fluid
  • Replace the master cylinder if it leaks internally or externally
  • Repair or replace the pedal assembly

Questions and answers

What does code C0075 mean?

The brake control module found an incorrect signal from the brake pedal position sensor, or excessive pedal travel. Both the sensor circuit and the brake hydraulics need to be checked.

Can I drive with C0075?

It's not recommended. Braking may be weakened and ABS or stability control may turn off. Tow the car to a shop instead.

Will clearing the code fix it?

No. Clearing only hides the code for a while. If the sensor, wiring or a fluid leak is the cause, the code will return and the brakes remain unreliable.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.