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C1289

Moderate

Pressure Transducer Redundant / Secondary Input Circuit Failure

What Does C1289 Mean?

The redundant (secondary) brake pressure transducer input circuit has failed. This is the backup pressure sensor in a dual-circuit braking system, typically monitoring the secondary hydraulic circuit (usually rear brakes). The redundant sensor provides a safety cross-check for the primary sensor. Without it, the system loses its ability to verify brake pressure readings and may disable certain advanced braking features.

Common Causes

35%

Failed secondary brake pressure transducer (internal sensor failure)

Secondary brake pressure transducer
Redundant pressure sensor

25%

Wiring fault in the secondary transducer circuit (open, short, or high resistance)

Transducer wiring harness
Connector
Harness routing

20%

Connector corrosion or brake fluid contamination at the secondary sensor

Transducer connector
Terminal pins
Seal

10%

Shared 5V reference supply failure affecting the secondary sensor

5V reference circuit
EBCM power supply
Reference wire

10%

EBCM input circuit fault for the secondary pressure channel

EBCM
ABS/ESC module

Diagnostic Steps

1

Monitor the secondary brake pressure PID in live data alongside the primary pressure PID — both should track together proportionally when the brake pedal is pressed. If the secondary is absent or erratic while the primary works normally, the fault is isolated to the secondary circuit.

2

Check for 5V reference and ground at the secondary transducer connector. If the same 5V supply feeds both transducers, verify the primary sensor did not pull the reference low (disconnect primary to test).

3

Measure the secondary transducer signal output with a voltmeter — approximately 0.5V at rest, rising proportionally with pedal pressure to about 4.5V at maximum.

4

Inspect the secondary transducer connector for brake fluid contamination (DOT fluid attacks plastic housings and corrodes terminals). Clean with brake cleaner and apply dielectric grease.

5

Test wiring continuity from the secondary transducer connector to the corresponding EBCM pins. Pay attention to the harness routing near the master cylinder and HCU where brake fluid leaks can damage wires.

Estimated Repair Cost

$150 - $700

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C1289 mean?

The redundant (secondary) brake pressure transducer input circuit has failed. This is the backup pressure sensor in a dual-circuit braking system, typically monitoring the secondary hydraulic circuit (usually rear brakes). The redundant sensor provides a safety cross-check for the primary sensor. Wi...

What causes C1289?

The most common cause of C1289 (Pressure Transducer Redundant / Secondary Input Circuit Failure) is: Failed secondary brake pressure transducer (internal sensor failure)

How much does it cost to fix C1289?

Typical repair costs for C1289 range from $150 to $700, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with C1289?

Basic braking remains fully functional. The redundant pressure sensor provides a safety cross-check; without it, the system cannot verify primary sensor accuracy. Some advanced braking features (Brake Assist, dynamic rear proportioning) may be limited. The vehicle is safe for normal driving, but repair should be scheduled soon to restore full system redundancy.

How do I diagnose C1289?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1289 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Chassis

System

ABS / Brake Assist

Difficulty

Moderate

Type

Manufacturer

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