πŸ”

C0040: Brake Pedal Switch A

Severity
Low
NHTSA Reports
7
Vehicles Affected
6
System
Powertrain

What Does C0040 Mean?

C0040 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Brake Pedal Switch A. This code relates to the chassis system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 6 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of C0040

Common Causes

C0040 Reports by Year

2019
1
2025
1
2011
1
2014
1
2012
1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database β€” actual owner descriptions.

"I WAS DRIVING TO GET LICENSE RENEWED WHEN MY CAR LOST POWER AND BEGAN TO COAST. THE ENGINE WAS ON AND I HAD TO GUN IT TO PICK UP SPEED. I TURNED AROUND AND HEADED FOR THE HONDA DEALERSHIP. UPON GETTING THERE ALL SYSTEMS WERE LIT UP MAINTENANCE WISE AND SMOKE WAS COMING OUT OF THE UNDERSIDE WHERE T"

β€” Honda Cr-V owner, 03/21/2019

"2020 Honda Pilot Touring was purchased in CT at Honda of Stamford, May of 2023. I started having issues in July pertaining to extreme dust coming into the cabin causing my children and myself asthma conditions to worsen. I took the car to the dealer and they blew out something connected with the sys"

β€” Honda Pilot owner, 02/26/2025

"AT 45,000 MI. ABS BEGAN ACTIVATING, AT SLOW SPEED, WHEN STOPPING. ABS LIGHT WAS NOT LITE AND BRAKES WERE EFFECTIVE. BASED ON THE C0040 DIAGNOSTIC CODE, REPLACED RT FRONT HUB/ABS SENSOR ASSY. AT A COST OF $400. EVENTUALLY, ALL HUB SENSORS BEGAN GIVING FALSE INDICATIONS. WAS TOLD BY DEALER IT WAS AT"

β€” Chevrolet Silverado owner, 08/26/2011

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for C0040

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

C0040 Reports by Vehicle

Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?
It depends on the severity. If the vehicle runs normally, short trips are usually OK. If you notice performance issues, drivability problems, or warning lights beyond the check engine light, get it checked soon.
Will this code clear itself?
Some codes clear automatically after the underlying issue is fixed and several drive cycles pass. But the root cause must be addressed first.
How do I find the exact cause?
A code alone doesn't pinpoint the failed part. You need a diagnostic scan ($50-150 at most shops) that reads freeze frame data and live sensor readings to identify the specific component.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

  • πŸ”§ Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
  • πŸ”§ Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
  • πŸ”§ If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
  1. 1
    Find your vehicle above

    Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.

  2. 2
    Check for recalls

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.

  3. 3
    Get a professional diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

Related Codes