P0556: Brake Booster Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
8 vehicles · 5 makes · $300-$1,800 repair
Most Reported On
P0556 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Brake Booster Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.” The brake booster pressure sensor signal is present but out of the expected range or implausible relative to operating conditions. A range/performance fault. This code is most commonly reported on 2019-2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2015-2020 Ford F-150, and 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500, plus 5 other vehicles, with repair costs ranging from $300 to $1,800.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 10 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
This is a powertrain code, so a basic OBD-II reader can read it. These read P0556.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple code reader for engine (P) codes on many compatible OBD-II vehicles. It does not support every vehicle or hybrid/EV application, and it does NOT read body, chassis or network codes; confirm exact-vehicle compatibility before buying.
- Read & clear engine (P) codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth scanner with a companion app that reads beyond the engine module — ABS, SRS and transmission — plus manufacturer-specific codes on many vehicles.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X V3.0 Elite OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
Handheld scanner covering the four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level tablet with all-system coverage and bi-directional control, so you can command a module rather than only read it.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
What you can do yourself, and what needs a shop
Reading the code, clearing it, and watching whether it returns is a driveway job with the right scanner. These steps are not:
- Module programming or software updates — needs the manufacturer software or a J2534 pass-through with a paid subscription.
- Replacing a control module — most are VIN-programmed and immobilizer-registered, so a new one does nothing until it is coded to your car.
- Airbag/SRS component work — a stored fault can deploy a live device.
If the vehicle is still under warranty, check for an open recall or technical service bulletin before buying anything — the repair may already be covered.
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Vehicles Affected (8)
Brake Booster/Assist Malfunction (T1)
Suburban Brake Assist Loss From Decreasing Vacuum Pump Output - Recall 19V645000
Engine-driven brake vacuum pump failure causing sudden hard brake pedal
Brake vacuum pump degradation reducing power brake assist (NHTSA recall 19V645)
FAQ
What does P0556 mean?
P0556 stands for "Brake Booster Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance." The brake booster pressure sensor signal is present but out of the expected range or implausible relative to operating conditions. A range/performance fault.
What are the most common causes of P0556?
The most common causes of P0556 are: Faulty brake booster pressure sensor, Vacuum leak at the booster or hose, Wiring resistance / poor connection, Failing vacuum source / pump, Faulty PCM input. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0556?
Repair costs for P0556 range from $300 to $1,800, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0556?
Au7o has documented P0556 across 8 vehicle models from 5 manufacturers: Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Toyota.
Sources (9)
- RecallNHTSA Recall 20V-055 / GM N192268091 - Brake System Malfunction Warning
- NHTSANHTSA Manufacturer Communications Data Corpus
- RecallNHTSA Recall 19V645000 - GMC Sierra Vacuum Pump Brake Assist Loss (GM N192268490)
- RecallNHTSA Recall 18V576 - Rear Caliper Pistons Can Reduce Braking Performance
- RecallNHTSA Campaign 19V645 - Decreasing Vacuum Brake-Assist Recall
- RecallNHTSA Recall 21V890 Part 573 Report: Vacuum-Pump Brake Assist
- RecallToyota 21TA09 Camry Owner Remedy Notice
- NHTSANHTSA VIN Recall Lookup
- RecallNHTSA Recall 19V-645 - Reduced Vacuum Brake Assist
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.