C004E code meaning
Brake System Pressure Control Valve Actuator Stuck
What C004E means
Set when the actuator of a brake system pressure control valve does not move as commanded and appears mechanically stuck. In electronically controlled brake and stability systems a pressure control valve regulates how much hydraulic pressure reaches the wheel circuits; the module commands the valve and checks the resulting pressure against the demand. When the pressure does not change although the valve was commanded, or the valve position feedback does not follow, the module concludes the actuator is stuck by contamination, corrosion or a mechanical fault. Pressure modulation for ABS, traction and stability is lost on the affected circuit and the brake or ABS warning lamp is set while base braking remains.
C004E at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyWorkshop only
- Typical labor1.5 to 4 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C004E
- ABS, traction and stability control disabled
- Abnormal brake behaviour on one circuit
- ABS or brake warning lamp on
Common causes of C004E
- Most likelyValve actuator stuck by contamination or wear
- PossibleCorrosion or debris in the valve bore
- Less likelyValve driver or wiring fault
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Pressure control valve
What each part of C004E means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 4E | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C004E and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about C004E
What does C004E mean?
C004E means "Brake System Pressure Control Valve Actuator Stuck". Set when the actuator of a brake system pressure control valve does not move as commanded and appears mechanically stuck. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C004E?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C004E the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C004E fail an emissions test?
C004E is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is C004E to fix?
Difficulty: workshop only. A typical repair takes 1.5 to 4 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C004E clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.