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C0579 — Brake Booster Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low

Generic OBD-II · all makesChassis

Code C0579 indicates that the brake booster temperature sensor B signal circuit is reporting a voltage lower than the expected range to the control module. This sensor monitors temperature within or near the brake booster assembly, and a low-voltage reading typically suggests a short to ground, an open reference circuit, or a failed sensor rather than an actual overtemperature condition.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed brake booster temperature sensor

The sensor itself may have an internal short or open, pulling the signal voltage low or producing no output. This is the most common single cause for a circuit-low code on a dedicated sensor line.

2. Wiring short to ground on the signal circuit

The signal wire between the sensor and the control module may be chafed or pinched against a grounded surface, causing the module to read near-zero volts. Routing near the booster or chassis edges makes this fairly common.

3. Connector corrosion or pin spread

Moisture intrusion, corrosion, or a pushed-back terminal at the sensor or module connector can interrupt the 5V reference or signal return, resulting in a low-voltage reading.

4. Open in the 5V reference or ground circuit

If the reference voltage feed or the sensor ground path is broken, the sensor cannot generate a valid signal and the module will interpret the input as circuit low.

5. Brake control module / BCM internal fault

An internal failure in the module that reads this sensor is possible but uncommon. It should only be considered after all wiring, connector, and sensor testing has ruled out external causes.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Read all stored codes and record freeze-frame data to see if C0579 is standalone or accompanied by other brake system codes.
  2. Locate the brake booster temperature sensor B and perform a thorough visual inspection of the connector and harness for damage, corrosion, or chafing.
  3. Disconnect the sensor and measure the 5V reference and ground at the connector with the key on; both must be present and within specification.
  4. If reference and ground are good, check the signal wire for continuity to the control module and for short to ground using a multimeter or test light.
  5. If wiring and connector pass all tests, replace or substitute the sensor and recheck the signal voltage to confirm the code clears.
  6. Only if every external component and circuit tests normal should the control module be evaluated, ideally by a technician with access to module-level diagnostic procedures.

Code facts & related codes

SystemChassis
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Does C0579 mean my brake booster is overheating?

No. A circuit-low code means the sensor signal voltage is below the expected range, which is almost always an electrical fault rather than an actual temperature reading. The system cannot reliably determine booster temperature when this code is set.

Can I still drive the vehicle with this code?

In most cases braking performance is unaffected because this is a monitoring circuit, not a direct assist-control circuit. However, the brake warning lamp may be illuminated, and any underlying issue should be diagnosed to ensure no related brake system faults are present.

Should I replace the brake control module or PCM to fix this code?

Almost never. C0579 is a sensor circuit code and the control module is the least likely cause. Replacing the module without confirming wiring, connector, and sensor integrity first is a common and expensive mistake. The module should only be suspected after all external testing is exhausted.

Is this the same as a brake pressure or fluid level sensor?

No. This code specifically refers to a temperature sensor associated with the brake booster assembly. Brake pressure, fluid level, and booster pressure codes use different DTC designations and should not be confused with C0579.