C0561: Chassis system disabled because another module reported a problem
System disabled, information stored
Severity: Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected
This is an informational code that records a function was switched off because of a fault elsewhere; our sources do not say how safe it is to drive with any particular function disabled.
C0561 in short
C0561 means a chassis function such as traction or stability control has been switched off because another module reported a fault or bad data. It is not the root cause. Check the other stored codes first; GM guidance and Saab service information say not to replace the module that set it.
C0561 is a "consequence" code. A control module stores it when it shuts a function down because data it needs from another module is missing, invalid or flagged as faulty. A code reference describes it as stored by the brake control module when ABS, traction or stability control is switched off.
Saab service information on the GM-based 9-5 shows the 71 variant, invalid serial data received, and says to find the module that sent the bad data and not to replace the module that set the code. Which module sets it varies, on the Saab it is the parking brake module.
So the useful work is on whatever else is stored: engine, wheel speed, steering angle or body module codes.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: A fault or bad data in another module
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- Both sources describe C0561 as a flag raised by something else being wrong or sending bad data.
- What would change this
- Rises if other codes are stored. Falls if C0561 is the only code and returns after clearing.
Cause 2: The module that stored the code
Possible — needs testing- Why it ranks here
- Saab specifically says not to replace the setting module, so it is a last-resort suspect.
- What would change this
- Rises only after every other code and the data link are cleared and the code returns.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Read every module for stored codes and fix those first, then clear C0561 and see whether it returns.
IfOther codes are stored in the engine, wheel speed, steering or body modules
It meansDiagnose those; C0561 follows from them.
IfNo other code and C0561 returns
It meansHave a shop check the data link and the setting module.
Symptoms
- Traction control or stability control light on
- Warning message on the dash about the system being off
- Other warning lights on at the same time, such as ABS or check engine
- Brake or ABS warning light on together with the stability control light Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.
How to fix
This is a safety-critical system, so we explain the code but don't give repair steps. Have it inspected by a qualified technician.
On your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for C0561 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
No curated relationships for C0561 yet.
C0561 questions
Should I replace the module that set C0561?
No. Saab's service information says to diagnose the module sending bad data and not to replace the setting module.
Sources and review
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error