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C0581

Park Brake Apply Performance

The EPB module has detected that the apply operation took longer than expected or did not reach the target clamp force. Causes include corroded actuators, low battery voltage or worn brake pads.

  • Check engine light: Not always
  • Emissions related: No
  • Repair difficulty: medium

Symptoms

  • ABS warning light on
  • ESC/stability control deactivated
  • Possible reduced brake assist
  • Speedometer may behave erratically

Common causes

Ordered by how often each turns out to be the cause.

  • Actuator corroded or sluggishCommon
  • Brake pads worn beyond limitPossible
  • Low system voltage during applyPossible

Parts involved

  • Epb Actuator
  • Epb Module
  • Brake Pads
  • Vehicle Power Supply

C0581 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012. Exact wording and diagnostic procedure vary by manufacturer and model. Code definitions are drawn from the public-domain OBDex dataset; the workshop notes are our own.