C0641 code meaning
Brake Pressure Sensor K Circuit/Open
What C0641 means
Brake pressure sensor K has an open circuit. Because the letter I is skipped in this series, K stands for a tenth pressure sensor, which is rare in cars; no carmaker publishes C0641 and the assignment is unknown. Heavy vehicles show how many pressure inputs one brake ECU can have: Bendix's EC-80 ESP reads a brake demand sensor in each of the two air circuits plus a load sensor and keeps a separate open-or-shorted code for each; ESP is then switched off while ABS and traction control stay active. In passenger cars the sensor often plugs straight into the module, as in a Kelsey-Hayes design, which removes harness opens but not contact faults. Honeywell notes that the resulting level after an open depends on whether the input has a pull-up or a pull-down resistor.
C0641 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0641
- ESC or ABS warning lamp on
- Stability control off, basic ABS may remain available
Common causes of C0641
- Most likelyPoor contact between sensor and module or harness connector
- PossibleOpen conductor where an external harness is used
- Less likelyInternal open in sensor K
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Brake pressure sensor kSensor wiring
What each part of C0641 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 41 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0641 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 C0641
What does C0641 mean?
C0641 means "Brake Pressure Sensor K Circuit/Open". Brake pressure sensor K has an open circuit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0641?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0641 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0641 fail an emissions test?
C0641 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 C0641 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0641 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.