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 C0131 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 C0131 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:
2003-2014 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra hard DIY
C0131 (master cylinder pressure sensor) on GM trucks indicates the internal pressure sensor in the ABS hydraulic unit is out of range. This sensor is not serviceable separately -- the whole EBCM/hydraulic unit must be replaced or rebuilt. Before replacing, verify brake fluid level is correct and that there are no air bubbles in the system. A proper ABS bleed after any brake work can prevent C0131. 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: 2-4 hours2007-2013 Cadillac Escalade/GMC Yukon hard DIY
Escalade C0131 often appears together with soft pedal or uneven brake response. The internal pressure sensor has drifted out of calibration. GM did not release a calibration procedure -- EBCM replacement is the official fix. Remanufactured units run ~$300. After install, perform the ABS automated bleed and the steering angle sensor relearn. 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: 2-4 hours2005-2010 Pontiac G6/Chevrolet Malibu hard DIY
G6 and Malibu C0131 sometimes clear by performing a proper scan-tool ABS bleed. Air trapped at the master cylinder port can fool the pressure sensor. If bleeding does not clear it, the EBCM is the next step. Always road-test after ABS work -- a truck that logged C0131 should have its brake performance verified before returning to service. 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 C0131?
Because the generic OBD-II standard does not assign this ID. Any stored C0131 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
- 2007-2016 Chevrolet Silverado
- 2007-2016 GMC Sierra
- 2008-2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 2008-2017 GMC Yukon
- 2009-2018 Chevrolet Traverse
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