ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction (GM)
The C0110 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction (GM). This is a serious severity code.
- Keep driving?
- Yes, but fix soon
- DIY difficulty
- moderate
- Estimated cost
- $100 - $600 (wheel-speed sensor or wiring most often; EBCM/pump work costs more)
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Common Symptoms
- ABS and/or traction control warning lights on
- ABS and stability assist may be disabled (base brakes still work)
- Possible false ABS activation at low speed with a failing wheel-speed sensor
Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
- Fault in the ABS/traction control component this code names (ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction) High
- Damaged wiring or a corroded connector in that circuit - road-splash zones corrode connectors High
- Failed related sensor or actuator Moderate
- Control module fault Low
Common Fixes by Vehicle
What techs usually find when diagnosing C0110 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2003-2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra hard DIY
C0110 (pump motor circuit malfunction) on GM trucks is similar to C0020 -- the ABS pump motor or its driver circuit is failing. Check the 60A ABS fuse in the underhood box first (free fix if blown). Next, listen for the pump motor running at key-on. If it is silent, the motor is likely dead or the relay inside the EBCM has failed. Remanufactured EBCMs ship programmed to your VIN from most rebuilders. 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
Envoy/Trailblazer C0110 is typically the EBCM solder joint issue affecting the pump motor circuit. DIY solder repair is a well-documented fix (search forum threads for "Envoy EBCM rebuild"). If you do not want to solder, a remanufactured EBCM with lifetime warranty costs ~$250 online. Bleeding the ABS after install requires a scan tool with bidirectional control. 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 hours2006-2012 Chevrolet Impala/Monte Carlo hard DIY
Impala C0110 sometimes clears by cleaning the EBCM ground connection. The EBCM grounds through its mounting bolts to the frame rail -- corrosion here can cause voltage drops that log C0110. Remove the EBCM, wire-wheel the mounting bolt holes, apply anti-seize, reinstall. If the code persists, the EBCM pump driver is failing and needs replacement. 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
What does C0110 mean?
C0110 is a chassis code used primarily by GM vehicles: ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction. It concerns the ABS/traction control system.
Can I keep driving with C0110?
Base brakes keep working, but assume ABS and stability control are offline until repaired - allow longer stopping distances and drive gently, especially in rain or snow. Repair promptly.
Is C0110 the same on every make?
The decimal C0xxx range is dominated by GM's assignments (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac). Other makes may use this ID differently - if your vehicle is not a GM product, verify the meaning in your make's service information.
Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure
-
Read the code with a GM-capable scan tool and note the symptom byte/subcode if shown.
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View live data for the named circuit (e.g. all four wheel speeds while rolling for wheel-speed codes).
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Inspect the circuit's wiring and connectors - chassis harnesses live in the splash zone and corrode first.
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Follow the GM pinpoint test for C0110 before replacing components.
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
- Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac (GM chassis code range)
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