Brake Pedal Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance Problem
The brake pedal position sensor is detecting a performance issue or range problem.
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What it means (plain English)
The brake pedal position sensor tells the car's computer how far down the brake pedal is pressed. If this sensor is out of range or acting strangely, it can cause issues with braking performance.
What the computer is actually seeing
The brake control module expects a voltage signal from the brake pedal position sensor between 0.5V (pedal released) and 4.5V (pedal fully pressed). If the voltage is outside of this range or fluctuating, it triggers the C117A code.
What a healthy reading looks like
Brake pedal released: ~0.5V, fully pressed: ~4.5V. Normal operation should show a smooth transition between these values.
Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way
Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.
- 11. Check the brake fluid level; it should be between the Min and Max indicators. If low, top it up and retest.
- 22. Inspect the wiring and connector to the brake pedal position sensor for damage or corrosion. Fix any issues found.
- 33. Use a multimeter to monitor the voltage at the brake pedal position sensor. It should range from 0.5V to 4.5V. If out of this range, proceed to the next step.
- 44. If wiring and connector are good, replace the brake pedal position sensor and clear the code. Test drive to verify the code does not return.
Common causes
- Faulty brake pedal position sensor
- Wiring issues or corrosion in the connector
- Brake fluid level too low affecting sensor performance
- Faulty brake control module
Typical repair cost
$$
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to drive with this code?
Moderate severity suggests you should fix it soon, but it is generally safe to drive carefully unless other symptoms occur.
Will this code come back after clearing?
If the underlying issue isn't resolved, the code will likely return after a drive cycle.
Why does this code pair with other codes?
Many brake system faults can impact each other, so a problem in one area can cause multiple codes to trigger.
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