If your scan tool displays C0267, your vehicle’s Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) has detected an open circuit in the ABS hydraulic pump motor circuit.
The ABS pump motor is responsible for restoring hydraulic brake pressure during anti-lock braking events. While the ABS valves rapidly release brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup, the pump motor rebuilds pressure so braking remains effective. If the EBCM cannot energize the pump motor because of an open circuit, it stores C0267 and disables the ABS, Traction Control, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC/StabiliTrak) systems.
Unlike C0110, which generally indicates a pump motor circuit malfunction, and C0252, which points toward the pump motor relay circuit, C0267 specifically indicates that the EBCM has detected an open electrical path between the module and the ABS pump motor.
For additional chassis diagnostics and repair guides, visit our Complete OBD-II Trouble Code Guide:
https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii
Quick Facts
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| OBD-II Code | C0267 |
| Description | ABS Pump Motor Circuit Open |
| Category | Chassis (C) Codes |
| System | Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) |
| Severity | ★★★★☆ High |
| Safe to Drive? | Yes, but ABS and stability systems will be disabled |
| Common Causes | Open wiring, failed ABS pump motor, bad relay, faulty EBCM, blown fuse |
| Typical Repair Cost | $75–1,800 |
What Does C0267 Mean?
The C0267 code indicates the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) cannot complete the electrical circuit required to operate the ABS hydraulic pump motor.
The EBCM continuously monitors:
- Pump motor voltage
- Current flow
- Relay operation
- Circuit continuity
If the module commands the pump motor to operate but detects no current flow, it interprets the condition as an open circuit and stores C0267.
Common locations where an open circuit develops include:
- Broken wiring
- Loose electrical connectors
- Failed relay contacts
- Blown fuse
- Failed pump motor windings
- Internal EBCM faults
Symptoms of C0267
Common symptoms include:
- ABS warning light illuminated
- Traction Control warning light
- Stability Control warning
- Service Brake System message
- Service StabiliTrak message (GM vehicles)
- ABS disabled
- No ABS activation during emergency braking
- Stored C0267 diagnostic code
Normal hydraulic braking typically remains unaffected.
Common Causes
Failed ABS Pump Motor
An internally open motor winding prevents the pump from operating.
This is one of the most common causes.
Broken Wiring
Inspect for:
- Broken conductors
- Chafed harnesses
- Rodent damage
- Pinched wiring
- Corrosion
Loose or Corroded Connector
High-current ABS connectors can develop:
- Loose terminals
- Corrosion
- Heat damage
- Moisture intrusion
Failed Pump Motor Relay
If the relay contacts fail to close, the pump motor receives no power.
Blown Fuse
A blown ABS pump fuse immediately creates an open circuit.
Always determine why the fuse failed before replacing it.
Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module
The EBCM may fail to provide power to the relay or incorrectly detect an open circuit.
How Serious Is C0267?
High.
Without an operational ABS pump motor, the following systems are generally disabled:
- Anti-lock Braking System
- Traction Control
- Electronic Stability Control
- Brake Assist
Emergency braking performance is significantly reduced on slippery roads.
Can You Drive With C0267?
Yes—but carefully.
Your standard hydraulic brakes continue to function, but:
- Wheels may lock during panic stops.
- Steering control under heavy braking is reduced.
- Stability control intervention is unavailable.
- Wet-weather stopping distances may increase.
Repairs should be completed as soon as possible.
How to Diagnose C0267
1. Scan the ABS Module
Use a professional scan tool capable of reading manufacturer-specific ABS codes.
Check for related codes including:
- C0110
- C0252
- C0265
- U-series communication codes
2. Check Battery Voltage
Verify:
- Battery condition
- Charging system output
- Voltage at the ABS module
3. Inspect ABS Fuses
Inspect:
- ABS pump fuse
- Main ABS fuse
- High-current fuse links
4. Test Circuit Continuity
Using a digital multimeter:
Verify:
- Wiring continuity
- Connector integrity
- Proper resistance
- No open circuits
5. Perform an Active Pump Test
Many professional scan tools allow activation of the ABS pump motor.
Verify:
- Pump engagement
- Current draw
- Relay activation
No operation usually indicates an open circuit or failed motor.
6. Inspect the Pump Motor
Measure motor winding resistance.
Infinite resistance usually confirms an open motor winding requiring replacement.
Common Repairs
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Replace ABS fuse | $20–50 |
| Replace pump relay | $40–120 |
| Repair wiring | $100–300 |
| Replace ABS pump motor | $400–1,000 |
| Replace hydraulic control unit | $700–1,600 |
| Replace Electronic Brake Control Module | $800–2,000 |
Common Diagnostic Mistakes
Technicians commonly:
- Replace the ABS module before checking continuity.
- Ignore blown fuses.
- Fail to test pump motor resistance.
- Overlook connector corrosion.
- Skip active pump motor testing.
Vehicles Commonly Affected
C0267 is commonly found on:
- Chevrolet Silverado
- GMC Sierra
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- GMC Yukon
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Cadillac Escalade
- Chevrolet Traverse
- GMC Acadia
- Buick Enclave
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
GM vehicles equipped with Bosch ABS systems report C0267 more frequently than many other manufacturers, although similar pump motor circuit codes exist across the industry.
How to Prevent C0267
Reduce the likelihood of C0267 by:
- Maintaining battery health.
- Inspecting ABS wiring during brake service.
- Protecting electrical connectors from moisture.
- Repairing damaged harnesses promptly.
- Replacing weak relays before they fail.
- Addressing ABS warning lights immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes C0267?
The most common causes include a failed ABS pump motor, broken wiring, blown fuse, faulty relay, damaged connectors, or an Electronic Brake Control Module fault.
Is C0267 dangerous?
Yes.
While conventional braking remains available, the loss of ABS and stability control significantly reduces emergency braking performance.
Can a blown fuse cause C0267?
Absolutely.
A blown ABS pump fuse is one of the first components that should be inspected.
Will C0267 clear itself?
No.
The open circuit must be repaired before the ABS module clears the code.
Does C0267 affect engine performance?
No.
The code only affects the braking and chassis control systems.
Final Thoughts
The C0267 code indicates an open circuit in the ABS pump motor electrical system, preventing the Electronic Brake Control Module from operating the hydraulic pump during anti-lock braking events. While everyday braking remains available, losing ABS, traction control, and stability control can significantly reduce safety during emergency situations.
Most repairs involve locating the open circuit, repairing damaged wiring, replacing a faulty relay or blown fuse, testing the pump motor, or diagnosing the Electronic Brake Control Module. Performing systematic electrical testing before replacing expensive components can save considerable repair costs.
For additional chassis diagnostics and repair guides, browse our complete Chassis (C) OBD-II Code Library:
- Complete OBD-II Code Guide: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-obdii/
- Chassis (B) Code Library: https://my.prostreetonline.com/dtc-doctor/b-code-obd-ii-codes/
Related Articles
- C0110 Code Explained – ABS Pump Motor Circuit Malfunction
- C0252 Code Explained – Electronic Brake Control Module Motor Relay Circuit
- C0265 Code Explained – Electronic Brake Control Module Relay Circuit



