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HOMESERVICE MANUALSPONTIAC1997GRAND PRIX GTP, 4D SEDANREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISBRAKESANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WITH TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM - ABS-VIDIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS)DTC C1238: LEFT FRONT ESB WILL NOT HOLD MOTOR
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, 4D Sedan

DTC C1238: Left Front ESB Will Not Hold Motor

1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, 4D SedanSECTION DTC C1238: Left Front ESB Will Not Hold Motor
  1. Perform diagnostic system check. See DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK . After performing diagnostic system check, go to next step.
  2. Turn ignition on, with engine off. Pump brake pedal until firm to deplete brake booster vacuum reservoir. Install scan tool. Using scan tool, select MISC TESTS, and then select MANUAL CONTROL. Using scan tool, select ABS MOTOR APPLY of left front ABS channel, and apply left front ABS motor. Wait 5 seconds. Apply firm pressure to brake pedal. If brake pedal falls, go to step 9). If brake pedal does not fall, go to next step.
  3. Check 6-pin ABS motor pack connector and EBCM/EBTCM connector for proper wire color/connector cavity combination. If wires are properly located in connector cavities, go to next step. If wires are not properly located in connector cavities, go to step 10).
  4. Using scan tool, exit MANUAL CONTROL. Turn ignition off. Disconnect 6-pin ABS motor pack connector. Disconnect EBCM/EBTCM connector. Using DVOM, measure resistance of left front motor high circuit between motor pack connector (harness side) and EBCM/EBTCM connector. See WIRING DIAGRAMS . If resistance is 0-1.5 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is not 0-1.5 ohms, go to step 11).
  5. Using DVOM, measure resistance of left front motor low circuit between motor pack connector (harness side) and EBCM/EBTCM connector. See WIRING DIAGRAMS . If resistance is 0-1.5 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is not 0-1.5 ohms, go to step 12).
  6. Using DVOM, measure resistance between left front motor high circuit and left front motor low circuit of motor pack connector (component side). See WIRING DIAGRAMS . If resistance is 0.2-1.5 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is not 0.2-1.5 ohms, go to step 9).
  7. Check 6-pin ABS motor pack connector and EBCM/EBTCM connector for poor terminal contact, corrosion or damage. If connectors are faulty, go to step 13). If connectors are okay, go to next step.
  8. Turn ignition off. Reconnect EBCM/EBTCM connector. Reconnect ABS modulator/motor pack assembly connector. Start engine without pressing brake pedal. Allow engine to run for at least 10 seconds. Repeat ignition cycle sequence 2 more times. Using scan tool, display DTCs. If DTC C1238 is set in last 3 ignition cycles, go to step 14). If DTC C1238 is not set in last 3 ignition cycles, go to step 15).
  9. Replace motor pack. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  10. Position proper wires into proper connector cavities. See WIRING DIAGRAMS. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  11. Repair open or high resistance in left front motor high circuit between motor pack and EBCM/EBTCM. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  12. Repair open or high resistance in left front motor low circuit between motor pack and EBCM/EBTCM. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  13. Replace all faulty terminals or connectors. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  14. Replace EBCM/EBTCM. After repairs, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK .
  15. Malfunction is not currently present. An intermittent may be caused by a mechanical system component sticking, binding, or slipping. Frequency of malfunction can be determined by using enhanced diagnostic function of scan tool. Hydraulic control modulator test function of scan tool may be used to locate an intermittent malfunction associated with ESB. After diagnosis is complete, clear DTCs and test drive vehicle for 3 drive cycles to verify DTC does not reset. Drive cycle consists of starting vehicle, driving vehicle faster than 10 MPH, stopping vehicle, and then turning ignition off.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.