DTC C004900 indicates an abnormal brake fluid level detected by the IPB (Intelligent Integrated Braking System) — Seal 6 EV
DTC C004900 indicates an abnormal brake fluid level detected by the IPB (Intelligent Integrated Braking System).
The fluid level sensor installed in the brake master cylinder reservoir (typically a Hall-effect or float switch) triggers this fault.
The IPB control unit records the fault when the brake fluid level remains continuously below the minimum mark (MIN) or the sensor signal voltage falls outside the calibrated range (normally 0.5V-4.5V, varying linearly with fluid level).
This is a safety-related fault.
When triggered, the system limits ESC, ABS, Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and energy recovery functions.
Some models enter limp mode.
Depending on the software version or specific repair scenario, this fault code may also correlate with an abnormal brake pedal position sensor (BPS) signal.
The IPB system verifies brake system integrity by evaluating both the fluid level and pedal signals.
- 1Brake fluid leak or natural loss: Aging and leakage at the brake calipers, brake lines, IPB integrated pump body, or reservoir seals causes the fluid level to continuously drop below the threshold.
- 2Brake fluid level sensor fault: Stuck sensor float, damaged Hall element, or failed magnetic float causing the output signal to mismatch the fluid level.
- 3Electrical connection issues: Sensor connector oxidation, water ingress (common in waded vehicles), terminal back-out, or wiring harness damage causing a signal short or open circuit.
- 4IPB control unit software fault: lost calibration data, software version defects, or voltage fluctuations causing false faults; common when failing to perform system calibration after repairs.
- 5Fluid level sensor installation or reservoir issue: sensor not fully seated, deformed reservoir, or use of non-standard brake fluid causing abnormal sensor readings.
- 1Visual inspection: Open the hood and check if the brake fluid reservoir level is below the MIN mark. Observe the brake fluid color (it should be clear and slightly yellow; replace the fluid if it is dark or cloudy).
- 2Leak check: Raise the vehicle. Inspect all four brake calipers, brake hoses, steel line fittings, and the underside of the IPB pump body for wet marks or fluid drips. Focus on freshly wet areas.
- 3Sensor electrical inspection: Disconnect the level sensor connector, measure the supply voltage (should be 5V±0.25V) and ground resistance (should be <1Ω), and check the signal wire for a short to ground or power.
- 4Sensor function test: Use the diagnostic tool to read the level sensor live data stream. Compare the actual fluid level with the sensor voltage (approx. 4.2V at full level, approx. 0.8V at empty level). If the values do not match, replace the sensor.
- 5Wiring harness inspection: Inspect the sensor wiring harness along its route to the IPB control unit. Check the front bulkhead wiring grommet and firewall connector for chafing, water ingress, or corrosion. Measure wiring harness continuity.
- 6System calibration: After replacing the sensor, repairing the wiring harness, or topping up the brake fluid, use VDS2000 to perform the 'Brake Fluid Level Sensor Calibration' and 'IPB System Bleeding' procedures.
- 7Verification test: Clear the fault code and perform a road test (including hard acceleration, hard deceleration, and turning). Monitor the data stream for stability. Confirm ESC/ABS functions return to normal and the fault code does not recur.
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