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C0614 — Right Park Brake Actuator Stuck

Generic OBD-II · all makesChassis

C0614 indicates that the park‑brake control module has detected a malfunction in the right‑side electric park‑brake actuator – the motor or mechanism is not moving as expected. The code is set when the module commands the actuator to apply or release and the expected change in circuit resistance or position does not occur. It is a chassis‑system code that concerns the parking‑brake actuator rather than the engine computer.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed electric actuator motor

The DC motor inside the right park‑brake actuator can seize, have burnt windings, or have a broken gear train, preventing movement.

2. Mechanically bound or seized actuator mechanism

Corrosion, rust, broken cables, or a damaged lever can jam the actuator so the motor cannot move it even though the motor is functional.

3. Wiring or connector problem

An open circuit, short, or poor ground at the actuator connector prevents the proper voltage and current from reaching the motor.

4. Blown fuse or power‑supply issue

A failed fuse, fusible link, or relay that supplies power to the park‑brake circuit can cause the actuator to remain stuck.

5. Faulty park‑brake control module

The module that commands the actuator can fail to provide the correct output, though this is less common than the above causes.

6. Intermittent battery‑voltage condition

Severely low system voltage can make the actuator appear stuck, but the code normally reflects a persistent mechanical or electrical fault rather than a simple voltage dip.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Retrieve all stored trouble codes and note if C0614 appears with other park‑brake codes (e.g., C0615).
  2. Visually inspect the right‑hand park‑brake actuator, cables, and lever for obvious damage, corrosion, or binding.
  3. Check the wiring harness and connector to the actuator for broken wires, corrosion, or loose contacts; test for proper ground and voltage at the connector.
  4. Measure the actuator motor’s resistance with a multimeter; compare to specification to determine if the motor is open, shorted, or out of spec.
  5. Test for power and ground at the actuator while the module commands the park‑brake to apply and release; use a scope or multimeter to verify pulse‑width modulation signals if applicable.
  6. If the motor, wiring, and power supplies check good, suspect a faulty park‑brake control module and consider swapping with a known‑good module for further verification.

Code facts & related codes

SystemChassis
StandardizationSAE generic — identical on every make

Frequently asked

Is the PCM (engine computer) usually the cause of C0614?

No. The park‑brake actuator, its wiring, and the park‑brake control module are far more likely sources. Replacing the PCM is rarely necessary for this code.

Can I drive the vehicle with C0614 set?

It is not advisable. The right park‑brake may stay engaged, causing excess drag, overheating of the brake, or a sudden release while driving.

Will a low battery cause this code?

A weak battery can make the actuator sluggish, but the code is set when the system detects a true mechanical or electrical failure, not just low voltage.

Do I need to replace the entire actuator assembly if the motor is bad?

Most manufacturers service the actuator as a complete assembly; some allow replacement of just the motor unit, but the common repair is to replace the whole actuator.