Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit Description
Proper operation of the vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) is highly dependent on the ability to apply brake pressure to a selected wheel, through the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV), as commanded by the electronic brake control module (EBCM). The EBCM may not be able to detect certain mechanical failures that may cause the VSES to perform poorly. This diagnostic procedure is designed to help diagnose concerns of poor vehicle stability, that may occur without the presence of any DTCs, by verifying the following.
- The tires are the correct size, properly inflated and in acceptable condition.
- There are no mechanical problems in the steering system.
- There are no mechanical problems in the suspension system.
- There are no mechanical problems in the base brake system.
- All of the VSES related hydraulic controls within the BPMV are functioning correctly.
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Did you review the system Description and Operation and the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Symptoms - Antilock Brake System andDiagnostic System Check - Vehicle |
| 2 | Inspect all four tires for the following.
Did you find and correct a concern? |
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Inspect the vehicle for proper power steering operation. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation
in Power Steering System. Did you find and correct a concern? |
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Diagnose any suspension symptoms exhibited by the vehicle. Refer to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis
in Suspension General Diagnosis. Did you find and correct a concern? |
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 5 |
| 5 |
|
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 6 |
| 6 | Diagnose any hydraulic brake symptoms exhibited by the vehicle. Refer to Symptoms - Hydraulic Brakes
in Hydraulic Brakes. Did you find and correct a concern? |
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 7 |
| 7 | Replace the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV). Refer to Brake Pressure Modulator Valve Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? |
Go to Step 8 | - |
| 8 | Test drive the vehicle to verify that the stability concern has been corrected, refer to Diagnostic Test Drive . Has the concern been corrected? |
System OK | Go to Step 2 |
NO RELATED
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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.