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SPN 6118moderate severity✨ AI-generated

Brake Pedal Position Sensor 1 - Voltage Above Normal

The brake pedal position sensor is reporting a higher voltage than expected.

Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.

What it means (plain English)

The brake pedal position sensor tracks how far down you press the brake pedal. If it's sending a voltage higher than around 4.5 volts when the pedal is fully released, it indicates there might be a fault in the electronics or wiring.

What the computer is actually seeing

The ECM (Electronic Control Module) monitors the voltage output from the brake pedal position sensor. It expects a voltage range of 0 to 5 volts, which corresponds to the pedal position from fully released to fully pressed. If it sees above 4.5 volts consistently when the pedal is released, it triggers the fault code.

What a healthy reading looks like

0.5 to 4.5 volts when the brake pedal is pressed or released.

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.

  1. 11. Inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion at the brake pedal position sensor. Fix any issues found.
  2. 22. Using a multimeter, check the voltage output at the brake pedal position sensor with the pedal fully released. It should be under 4.5 volts. If it's above that, proceed to step 3.
  3. 33. Test the brake pedal position sensor by checking its resistance and waveform output. Compare these values with manufacturer specifications. If out of spec, replace the sensor.
  4. 44. If the sensor is operating correctly, check the ECM for fault codes and further diagnose its condition.

Common causes

  • Shorted wiring in the brake pedal position sensor circuit
  • Faulty brake pedal position sensor
  • Corroded or loose electrical connectors
  • Issues with the ECM reading or interpreting the sensor signal

Typical repair cost

$$

Related codes

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to drive with this code?

Yes, it is drivable but should be addressed soon to prevent brake system issues.

Will this code come back after clearing it?

It may come back if the root cause isn't fixed, like a faulty sensor or wiring issue.

Why does this code sometimes appear with ABS codes?

Both brake pedal position and ABS systems rely on similar brake input signals, so faults can overlap.

Working a real vehicle right now?

Let DiagCoach walk you through it live with your specific symptoms, vehicle, and what you've already checked.

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