vettespeed68

2001 Base 6 Speed Manual:

Got typical EBCM (Electronic Brake Control Module) error codes. I opened up unit and resoldered the 5 typical problem spots, I believe common to the relay. This fixed all problems for about 4 years. Eventually, errors came back. I repaired yet again, only lasted about 6 months. I repaired a 3rd time and errors are gone, again, but now it has developed a new and different issue. While simply driving normally, the brakes are randomly being applied, and often unevenly, pulling the car to one side. This coincides with a quick message of “active handling” on the DIC.

Is this yet another issue with the EBCM? Anyone know what it might be, specifically? How is this repaired? Would the typical refurbish serviced fix this issue? I see absfixer.com, also xemodex.com, both repair these units. Anyone used either of these services?

This is my "daily". I'd like to get this repaired rock solid, once and for all. Thoughts on a permanent solution?

Thanks, Mike

Smoken1

Any codes?

bookyoh

I seem to remember a thread within the last 6 months where a Forum member had an issue with his brakes activating on their own. He eventually found that he had damaged some part of his module when he had repaired it. It had nothing to do with resoldering or relays; there was some valving he damaged and he posted photos.

Dads2kconvertible

Before blaming the EBCM investigate WHY the brakes are being applied. You said the active handling light is coming on, look in the service manual and find out what conditions engage that system.
One thing that comes to mind is wheel speed sensors.

LTC Z06

Check the yaw rate sensor. When my '02 started braking for no reason it was the yaw rate sensor.

vettespeed68

Thanks for the answers. To clarify, there are NO CODES, current or history. Makes sense that a faulty component is sending bad info to the ECBM as you guys have suggested. Also thinking SWPS (steering wheel position sensor) as a possibility?

Would a Tech II scanner show what component is sending the erroneous info?

Thanks again, Mike

jfigus

Can the EBCM actually apply the brakes with no pressure on the brake pedal? Noob question, but doesn't ABS simply modulate the existing pressure in the brake line? I never realized there was some form of a pump in the system that could apply pressure to the line in absence of brake pedal pressure.

LTC Z06

Yes. The traction and stability control can activate the brakes independently.

ariZona06

Does this happen with Traction Control "off"?

vettespeed68

No, it will not randomly brake when Traction Control is turned off. I keep it off for the time being so it doesn’t put me in the wall or ditch.

ariZona06

What is your tire setup? My '03 Z track car HATES my 315/30/18 square setup and displays the same characteristics you noted if I leave T/C on. I run in competitive mode (I think that's Z only) or with T/C off when driving. Haven't had an issue in over 3 years. One of these days when I have some free time (LOL!) I'd like to put the factory wheel/tire combo on my car to see how it performs.

vettespeed68

Tire setup is 100% stock. It does it in Competitive Driving Mode, just less severe. This problem is new after 160,000 miles without this issue.

ariZona06

Well, rats. I was hoping it would be something simple. Unfortunately at 160K you run into annoying problems. At least you can drive it safely with T/C off while you research and troubleshoot.

Vetteman Jack

Moved to C5 Tech.

MazdaCorvette

I had this issue in my 02 Z06 accompanied with an intermittent wheel position sensor code. Car would randomly apply brakes on the highway and nearly throw me off the road or into another car. Replaced the steering position sensor and the codes were gone along with the intermittent ABS yanking my car at random times. I think it had something to do with the steering wheels position sensor giving a crazy input to the EBCM causing the EBCM to react in an attempt to correct the "over" or "under" steer it thought it was seeing.

J.Abbott

With a Tech2 you can look at all the chassis data to see where your failure is. I would look at the Yaw sensor, that would be my first guess. You look at all the inputs on the tech2 though.

vettespeed68

Thanks All. I ordered a SWPS, thought that would be my first attempt/swap. Wondering if I should do the yaw sensor first? Less labor? The SWPS was just over $100, but…it appears the yaw sensor is >$350 😳? Maybe I will start with the SWPS.

Dads2kconvertible

If it were my money and time I'd try and troubleshoot the issue before buying parts.

vettespeed68

SOLVED/FIXED. Put in new steering wheel position sensor. Several weeks now, working perfectly. Previous to the swap, problem would arise usually within a minute or so. Fingers crossed it sustains for a while.

ON A SIDE NOTE: I broke the clock spring when I had the steering column out. Without even realizing, the steering wheel must have rotated 360°. After installation and turning the wheel all the way one way, damaged the clock spring and airbag light came on. Part is obsolete, including aftermarket, BTW. I replaced it with a used unit. Take note if you remove the steering column.

RANT: These cars are cheap pieces of crap. I love it when it is working properly, but the electronic components are complete garbage.

kh400

This system is poorly designed in my opinion. If there is a problem in the active handling or traction control, or antilock system, the light will come on, but also, it applies on front brake at random, just on time. I fought this on my 03 for twelve years! Finally came down to voltage drop due to small guage wiring and high resistance at the starter, engine fuse block, and interior fuse block. Fun times.