ABS and brakes code
C0265: ABS motor relay circuit fault
How much to fix C0265? Typically $520–$1,700.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $300 | $1,200 |
| Labor: 2 to 3 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $220 | $450 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $50 |
| Total, rounded | $520 | $1,700 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
This is the range for the most common fix, abs control module repair or replacement. Which repair your car needs depends on a proper diagnosis.
The ABS computer checks the relay and circuit that power the ABS pump motor, and found a problem. This code is common on GM, though its meaning can vary by make. A blown fuse, a bad relay or a weak ground is the usual cause, and a failing pump motor is the less common one.
- Safe to drive?
- Short trips only
- Most common cause
- Blown ABS fuse or bad relay
Normal brakes usually still work, but without ABS help the wheels can lock in a hard stop, so leave extra room and brake early.
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What you may notice
- ABS light on
- Traction control light on
- Brake pedal may feel different on some cars
- Stability control off
Common causes, most likely first
- Blown ABS fuse or bad relay
- Corroded ground or power connection
- Failing ABS pump motor
- Weak battery
- ABS module fault
Check this first
Find the ABS fuses and the relay in the fuse box and check them. Then clean and tighten the battery terminals and the ground points near the ABS unit, since ABS pumps draw a lot of current and a weak connection can set this code.
Other repairs that sometimes fix C0265
| Repair | Typical range, US |
|---|---|
| Battery cable replacement | $100 to $340 |
| Battery replacement | $150 to $470 |
| Diagnostic scan (check engine light) | $55 to $250 |
Before you pay
- Ask the shop what test showed this part is the cause, not just that the code appeared.
- Ask for parts and labor listed separately, and for the hours.
- Ask for a written OK before any extra work. Many states require written authorization before repairs.
Got a quote already? Check it against the range. Want to see if your car has a recall tied to this problem? Check recalls by VIN.
Need to read a code yourself? OBD-II scanners on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure).
C0265 questions
Is it only a fuse?
It can be. A blown fuse is the cheapest cause, and replacing it clears the code. If the new fuse blows again, that points to a short or a failing pump motor, and a shop should test the circuit.
Can the pump be replaced alone?
On some models yes, and on others the module and pump are one part. Ask the shop whether your car lets them replace the pump alone, and what that costs compared with the module.
Why check the battery?
ABS pumps draw a lot of power when they run, and weak voltage can set this code even if the pump is fine. A battery test costs little and rules out an easy cause.
How much does it cost to fix C0265?
The most common fix, abs control module repair or replacement, has a typical range of $520 to $1,700 across the US. It is an estimate built from parts prices and local labor wages, not a quote. Your car and shop change it.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $550 to $1,775 |
| New York City area | $540 to $1,750 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $540 to $1,775 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $530 to $1,725 |
| Houston area, Texas | $510 to $1,700 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $510 to $1,700 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $520 to $1,700 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $530 to $1,725 |
| Miami area, Florida | $510 to $1,700 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $550 to $1,775 |
Related codes
- C0110: ABS pump motor circuit fault
- C0561: ABS system disabled or module fault
- C0161: ABS or traction brake switch circuit fault
More abs and brakes codes
Code meaning written in our own words. Some codes mean different things on different makes, so check your scan tool or manual. Not a repair shop, estimates only.