C0258: Brake Booster Vacuum Sensor Circuit
The brake booster vacuum sensor reports an implausible signal; brake assist functions are reduced. Boost control tracks commanded vs. actual manifold pressure; persistent deviation means wastegate, vanes, hose or actuator are not delivering the requested pressure.
What C0258 means
C0258 is a generic OBD-II chassis code in the ABS & brakes group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
Post this code once and get quotes from local mechanics. Free to post.
Makes the repair and parts links below specific to your car. Kept in this browser only.
Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- 01Vacuum hose leakMost likely
- 02Sensor failedPossible
Can I drive with C0258?
Drive carefully and get it checked soon.
Normal hydraulic braking usually still works, but ABS, stability control or brake assist may be off. Leave extra stopping distance, especially on wet or icy roads. If the pedal feels soft or the red brake light is on, stop driving.
Why we rate it urgent
- ABS or brake assist may be disabled
- Usually lights the ABS, traction or stability warning instead of the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose C0258
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just C0258. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the brake booster vacuum sensor and vacuum hose for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Vacuum hose leak; sensor failed. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
C0258 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Brake booster vacuum sensor
- Vacuum hose
C0258 FAQ
What does C0258 mean?
C0258 means “Brake Booster Vacuum Sensor Circuit”. The brake booster vacuum sensor reports an implausible signal; brake assist functions are reduced. Boost control tracks commanded vs. actual manifold pressure; persistent deviation means wastegate, vanes, hose or actuator are not delivering the requested pressure.
Is C0258 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate C0258 as urgent severity. Drive carefully and get it checked soon. Normal hydraulic braking usually still works, but ABS, stability control or brake assist may be off. Leave extra stopping distance, especially on wet or icy roads. If the pedal feels soft or the red brake light is on, stop driving.
What causes C0258?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Vacuum hose leak; Sensor failed. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix C0258?
Typical labor is about $65–$250 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix C0258 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will C0258 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.