C0072: Brake Temperature Too High
The brake system estimates that the brakes are overheated.
High risk
Have it checked soon. Braking power can fade; let the brakes cool down.
Short answer · Can I keep driving with C0072?
Only after the brakes have cooled. Braking power can fade; let the brakes cool down. Have it checked soon.
What does C0072 mean?
C0072 is stored when the brake control unit calculates very hot brakes, for example after long descents, heavy towing or a dragging brake.
What the car does when the code is set
The brake warning light may come on, and brake assistance or ABS functions may be limited.
How the system works
Modern brakes use sensors for fluid level, pedal position, pressure and pad wear. The brake control unit uses them for ABS, brake assistance and warnings.
Common symptoms
Possible causes
Listed without ranking. The cause on your car depends on make, engine and mileage — see the maker notes below.
- Low brake fluid levelWorn pads or a leak lower the level in the reservoir.
- Faulty sensorPressure, travel or level sensors can fail internally.
- Wiring or connector faultDamaged wires or corroded plugs give wrong signals.
- Air or moisture in the brake fluidOld fluid or a leak changes how the system behaves.
- Brake booster or hydraulic unit faultPossible once fluid, sensors and wiring have been checked.
How it is diagnosed
- Check the brake fluid levelWith the car level, the fluid should sit between MIN and MAX.If the level is low or the pedal feels soft, do not drive; have the car recovered.
- Look for leaksCheck behind each wheel and around the master cylinder for fluid.
- Check the padsWorn pads lower the fluid level and may trigger wear warnings.
- Read live dataA workshop compares sensor values with the pedal at rest and pressed.
Questions about C0072
What should I do when brakes overheat?
Slow down, use a lower gear on descents and stop safely to let the brakes cool. Check for a dragging brake if it happens on normal roads.
Is a brake system code an emergency?
It can be. If the brake warning light is red or the pedal feels different, stop driving and have the car checked.