Chevrolet-specific code — factory diagnostic data| DTC Data Sheet | |
| Code | C0561 |
| Vehicle | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2019) |
| Engine | All |
| System | STABILITY CONTROL |
| Fault type | Circuit |
| Official meaning | System Disabled Information Stored |
Definition source: Chevrolet factory description. Diagnostic guidance is based on factory-defined fault logic for this code.
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C0561 Quick Answer
C0561 on a Silverado is an informational code — the EBCM is reporting that it disabled StabiliTrak / Traction Control because of another stored fault, not because of an issue with the StabiliTrak system itself. You’ll almost always find C0561 alongside a different ABS / brake / wheel-speed code. Diagnose the partner code first; C0561 clears automatically once the underlying issue is fixed.
What Does C0561 Mean on a Chevy Silverado 1500?
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2019) stores C0561 when the condition described above is met. This guide focuses on the All configurations. Diagnostic priorities and likely root causes differ from the generic SAE definition because of platform-specific failure patterns documented below.
Symptoms
- Traction Control / StabiliTrak warning light
- “Service StabiliTrak” or “Service Traction Control” message in DIC
- StabiliTrak disabled (won’t intervene in slippery conditions)
- Possible ABS warning light if a wheel speed sensor is the partner cause
- C0561 stored alongside one or more other ABS / brake codes
Common Causes (Most Likely on This Model First)
- Wheel speed sensor codes (C0035, C0040, C0045, C0050). Most common partner. A faulted wheel speed sensor on any of the four wheels disables StabiliTrak — and stores C0561 to log that the system is offline. Fix the wheel speed code; C0561 goes away.
- Steering angle sensor codes (C0455, C0710). StabiliTrak needs steering angle input. A failed or unlearned steering angle sensor (after suspension work) disables stability control. Often needs a relearn procedure with a scan tool.
- Yaw rate sensor / accelerometer fault. The yaw sensor inside the BCM or as a standalone module on later trucks. Codes like C0710 (steering wheel position) or C0186 (yaw rate) partner with C0561.
- Brake light switch failure. Less obvious but common — StabiliTrak disables if it can’t see brake-pedal application. Check that brake lights illuminate correctly.
- Battery voltage low. StabiliTrak self-disables if voltage drops below threshold (B1325 partner code). Charging system inspection.
Diagnostic Approach
- Pull ALL EBCM / ABS module codes — C0561 is informational and there is always a partner code that triggered the disable.
- Diagnose the partner code first using its specific procedure (wheel speed sensor, steering angle, yaw, brake light switch, etc.).
- After fixing the partner fault, clear C0561 with a scan tool or drive a few ignition cycles for it to auto-clear.
- If the steering angle sensor was the partner, perform the SAS relearn — straight steering, ignition on, scan tool initiates the relearn.
- Re-test StabiliTrak by driving on a wet or snowy surface and lightly provoking traction control. The system should intervene.
Possible Fixes
| Fix | When |
|---|---|
| Diagnose and repair partner code | Always — C0561 is informational only |
| Steering angle sensor relearn | After alignment or suspension service triggers C0561 |
| Brake light switch replacement | Brake lights don’t illuminate, partner code points to switch |
| Charging system service (battery/alternator) | B1325 also stored or battery weak |
Can I Still Drive With C0561?
Yes for base operation — brakes still work normally. StabiliTrak and traction control are disabled until the underlying fault is fixed, so drive carefully in slippery conditions.
How Serious Is This Code?
Low to moderate. The code itself is not the problem — it’s a notification. But it means a safety system is offline. Fix the partner code reasonably promptly.
Repair Costs
| Repair | Cost |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic time to read partner code | $80 – $160 |
| Cost depends entirely on partner code | $80 (brake switch) – $580 (hub bearing) typically |
FAQ
What is C0561 on a Chevy Silverado?
C0561 is an informational code meaning StabiliTrak/Traction Control was automatically disabled because another fault was detected. The actual problem is whatever partner code was also stored — typically a wheel speed sensor (C0035-C0050), steering angle sensor, yaw rate, brake switch, or low battery voltage. Diagnose the partner code; C0561 will clear once it’s fixed.
Can I drive my Silverado with C0561?
Yes — your normal hydraulic brakes work fine. You’ve just lost traction control and StabiliTrak intervention. Avoid driving in challenging conditions until the underlying partner code is repaired.
How do I fix C0561 by itself?
You can’t — C0561 is always a result of another code. You need a scan tool that reads the EBCM/ABS module (not just generic OBD-II) to see the partner code, then diagnose that. Common partners on Silverados are wheel speed sensor circuits and steering angle sensor.
Will C0561 clear on its own?
Yes, once you fix the underlying partner code, C0561 will auto-clear after a few ignition cycles. You can also clear it manually with a scan tool after the repair.