Not assigned in the generic OBD-II standard - if your scan tool shows this code, it is manufacturer-specific; verify the meaning in your make's service information
The C0020 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Not assigned in the generic OBD-II standard - if your scan tool shows this code, it is manufacturer-specific; verify the meaning in your make's service information. This is a moderate severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- hard
- Estimated cost
- Unknown until the make-specific meaning is confirmed
Common Symptoms
- Depends entirely on the manufacturer-specific meaning - no generic definition exists
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- This code ID is not defined by the generic OBD-II standard; a stored instance is manufacturer-assigned High
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing C0020 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2003-2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra hard DIY
C0020 (ABS pump motor circuit) on GM trucks is usually a failed pump motor inside the ABS hydraulic unit. The motor brushes wear out at 150K+ miles. Some shops rebuild these modules for ~$200, or buy a remanufactured unit. A failing pump motor often makes a loud buzzing from the hydraulic unit at key-on. Replacing the whole EBCM unit requires bleeding the ABS with a Tech 2 or equivalent. Note: this module has to be coded to the vehicle with a factory-level scan tool after installation. Budget for that step, or have a shop supply and code the part.
Labor: 2-3 hours2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer/GMC Envoy hard DIY
Trailblazer/Envoy C0020 is a well-known issue. The ABS pump motor connector on the EBCM develops solder joint failures from vibration and heat. A popular DIY fix is the "ABS EBCM solder repair" -- remove the module, open it, reflow the pump motor solder joints. Many owners have extended ABS life by 5+ years with this repair. If you are not comfortable soldering, buy a remanufactured module. Note: this module has to be coded to the vehicle with a factory-level scan tool after installation. Budget for that step, or have a shop supply and code the part.
Labor: 2-3 hours2007-2013 Cadillac Escalade/GMC Yukon hard DIY
Escalade/Yukon C0020 often throws alongside traction control and StabiliTrak lights. The root cause is usually the EBCM's pump motor driver circuit. A remanufactured EBCM is the most reliable fix. After swap, you must program the unit to the VIN and re-learn the steering angle sensor with a scan tool that supports GM ABS programming. Note: this module has to be coded to the vehicle with a factory-level scan tool after installation. Budget for that step, or have a shop supply and code the part.
Labor: 2-3 hoursFrequently Asked Questions
Why can't I find a standard definition for C0020?
Because the generic OBD-II standard does not assign this ID. Any stored C0020 is a manufacturer-specific code; its meaning must come from your make's service documentation.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
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Confirm the code with a make-specific (enhanced) scan tool.
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Look the code up in your manufacturer's official service information - generic OBD-II references do not define it.
Sources 1
This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.
- SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)
Commonly Affected Vehicles
- 2008-2018 Ford F-150
- 2010-2020 Toyota Camry
- 2012-2019 Honda Civic
- 2011-2020 Chevrolet Silverado
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