What Does C1293 Mean?
This is a history code indicating that DTC C1291 (Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration) was set during the previous ignition cycle. The EBCM stores this code to flag that the brake switch open-during-braking fault occurred recently. If C1291 is no longer current, the fault may have been intermittent. If C1291 is also currently set, both the active and history codes will be present.
Common Causes
35%
Intermittent brake lamp switch contact (marginal switch beginning to fail)
25%
Brake pedal bumper pad deteriorating and intermittently disengaging from the switch
20%
Loose brake lamp switch connector with intermittent contact
15%
C1291 was a one-time event caused by a temporary condition (e.g., very light pedal touch during coasting)
5%
Wiring intermittent: marginal splice or chafed wire making occasional contact
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check whether C1291 is also currently active — if it is, diagnose C1291 as the primary fault. If only C1293 is present, the fault occurred last drive cycle but is not currently detected.
2
Verify brake lights are currently working correctly by having someone observe while you press and release the pedal repeatedly, including light/gentle presses, to check for intermittent failure.
3
Inspect the brake pedal bumper/pad — if it shows cracking, softening, or deformation, replace it preemptively even if it is still in place. These deteriorate over time and cause intermittent switch issues.
4
Wiggle-test the brake lamp switch connector while watching the brake lights — any flicker indicates a loose connection that needs to be re-seated or the connector replaced.
5
Clear the code and drive the vehicle through several brake cycles. If C1291/C1293 returns, the fault is reproducible and needs a physical repair. If it does not return, monitor periodically.
Estimated Repair Cost
$10 - $100
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This is a history code indicating that DTC C1291 (Open Brake Lamp Switch Contacts During Deceleration) was set during the previous ignition cycle. The EBCM stores this code to flag that the brake switch open-during-braking fault occurred recently. If C1291 is no longer current, the fault may have be...
The most common cause of C1293 (Code C1291 Set in Previous Ignition Cycle) is: Intermittent brake lamp switch contact (marginal switch beginning to fail)
Typical repair costs for C1293 range from $10 to $100, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Since this is a history code from a previous ignition cycle, the fault may no longer be active. However, an intermittent brake light failure is a serious safety concern. Verify that brake lights are currently working. If the fault is intermittent, the underlying cause should still be addressed to prevent a future full failure. The repair is typically very simple and inexpensive.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1293 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Brake System / Vehicle Lighting
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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