P057A code meaning
Brake Pedal Position Sensor A Circuit/Open
Powertrain system Generic code P05xx codes Check engine light
What P057A means
The brake pedal position sensor is an analogue 5 V sensor, usually Hall-type, giving the pedal position continuously instead of a switch – for brake lights, cruise control, stop-start, brake-throttle override and regenerative braking. GM (from about 2012) and Stellantis read it in the engine module, Saab's 9-4X and 9-5 in the body module; its learned rest position (about 1 V) must be relearned after replacement. P057A is the general circuit or open-circuit fault. No manufacturer document available to us uses it; GM reports an open circuit as P057C or P057D depending on the line, type A with one trip, and sets the pedal position to 0 %. Brake detection then relies on the brake light switch.
P057A at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P057A
- Check engine light on
- Cruise control and stop-start inoperative
- Possible power reduction
Common causes of P057A
- Most likelyConnector at the sensor loose or corroded, pins pushed back
- Possible5 V reference, signal or ground line open
- PossibleSensor faulty internally
- Less likelyEngine or body module
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Brake pedal position sensorSensor wiringEngine control module
What each part of P057A means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 5 | Area: vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs. |
| 7A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P057A 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 P057A
What does P057A mean?
P057A means "Brake Pedal Position Sensor A Circuit/Open". The brake pedal position sensor is an analogue 5 V sensor, usually Hall-type, giving the pedal position continuously instead of a switch – for brake lights, cruise control, stop-start, brake-throttle override and regenerative braking. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P057A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With P057A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will P057A fail an emissions test?
P057A 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 P057A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 1.5 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P057A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.