C0544 code meaning
Brake Pressure Sensor B Circuit/Open
What C0544 means
The brake module sees a general electrical fault in the circuit of pressure sensor B, usually an interruption in signal, feed or ground. No maker publishes this exact meaning; note that GM bulletins use C0544 for a different, steering-related fault in its power steering module, so a GM scan result must be read with GM definitions. For the component itself, Saab 9-5 (2011) data shows how such circuits are watched: the brake module watches both the sensor feed and its output line, sets a fault after 0.1 s of open or high resistance and disables ABS, traction and stability control for that ignition cycle. Bentley shows that sensor B can sit inside the ESC unit, which then has to be replaced as a whole. C0541 covers implausible values, C0542 and C0543 low and high voltage.
C0544 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.3 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0544
- ABS, traction and stability warning lamps on
- Driver assistance relying on brake pressure unavailable
Common causes of C0544
- Most likelyConnector at sensor or brake module loose or corroded
- PossibleInterrupted signal, feed or ground wire
- Less likelyOpen inside the sensor or the ESC unit carrying it
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Brake pressure sensor bSensor wiring
What each part of C0544 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 44 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0544 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 C0544
What does C0544 mean?
C0544 means "Brake Pressure Sensor B Circuit/Open". The brake module sees a general electrical fault in the circuit of pressure sensor B, usually an interruption in signal, feed or ground. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0544?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0544 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0544 fail an emissions test?
C0544 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 C0544 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0544 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.