C0266: Active Brake Booster
The brake control module has detected a fault in the active (electric or vacuum-controlled) brake booster. Active boosters are used by emergency brake assist and adaptive cruise control to autonomously build brake pressure.
What C0266 means
C0266 is a generic OBD-II chassis code in the ABS & brakes group.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- 01Active booster motor or solenoid failedMost likely
- 02Vacuum supply weak (vacuum pump or hose fault)Possible
- 03Wiring or connector faultLess likely
Can I drive with C0266?
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 C0266
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just C0266. 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
Check live data
Watch the related sensor and actuator readings in live data (Active brake booster, Brake control module, Vacuum pump) and compare them with expected values in the service information for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Active booster motor or solenoid failed; vacuum supply weak (vacuum pump or hose fault); wiring or connector fault. 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.
C0266 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
- Hard
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Involved testing or major parts. Most owners use a shop.
Parts and systems involved
- Active brake booster
- Brake control module
- Vacuum pump
C0266 FAQ
What does C0266 mean?
C0266 means “Active Brake Booster”. The brake control module has detected a fault in the active (electric or vacuum-controlled) brake booster. Active boosters are used by emergency brake assist and adaptive cruise control to autonomously build brake pressure.
Is C0266 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate C0266 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 C0266?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Active booster motor or solenoid failed; Vacuum supply weak (vacuum pump or hose fault); Wiring or connector fault. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix C0266?
Typical labor is about $125–$625 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 C0266 myself?
DIY difficulty is hard. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will C0266 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.