Code
C0115
Generic
C — Chassis
Steering Control Module Communication Fault
Views:
UK: 6
EN: 7
RU: 5
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open, short or high resistance in wiring between steering control module and network/ECU
- Corroded, loose or damaged connectors at the steering control module or network junctions
- Blown fuse or failed power/ignition supply to the steering module
- Poor or missing ground at the steering module or related control modules
- Faulty steering control module, steering angle sensor, or related module
- CAN/LIN bus short, termination resistor fault, or excessive bus load/noise
Symptoms
- Steering-related warning lamp(s) (e.g., EPS, ABS, ESC) illuminated
- Loss or intermittent loss of power steering assist (electric power steering)
- Loss of steering angle data to stability/traction systems causing limited/disabled stability control
- Steering wheel angle reading missing or stuck in scan tool live data
- Intermittent faults that may clear and return, especially when steering is moved or vehicle is started
What to check
- Retrieve all stored and pending DTCs with a capable scan tool (record freeze-frame and history)
- Confirm module presence on vehicle network using scan tool (module detected, VIN match)
- Visually inspect connectors and wiring at steering control module, steering column, and network junctions for corrosion, damage, or loose pins
- Check fuses/relays that supply the steering control module and related systems
- Verify proper battery voltage and key-on power to the module (backprobe power/ignition circuits)
- Check module ground(s for continuity to chassis and battery negative)
Signal parameters
- CAN bus idle: each bus line ≈ 2.5 V (recessive state)
- CAN dominant state example: CAN_H ≈ 3.5 V and CAN_L ≈ 1.5 V (differential ≈ 2.0 V) — exact values vary by vehicle
- Typical 5 V sensor reference for steering angle potentiometers or sensors (if applicable)
- Module supply: battery voltage (approx. 12 V) at constant feed, switched ignition feed approx. 12 V with key on
- Ground: near 0 V with good continuity to vehicle chassis/battery negative
Diagnostic algorithm
- Step 1 — Gather data: Read all DTCs (including U-codes) and freeze frame; note whether code is current, intermittent, or historical.
- Step 2 — Visual & basic electrical check: Inspect connectors, pins, and harness for damage/corrosion. Check steering column routing for chafing. Verify fuses and relays for steering module power.
- Step 3 — Verify power and ground: Backprobe module power and ground circuits with key on to confirm proper battery/switch voltage and low-resistance ground.
- Step 4 — Check network presence: Use a scan tool to see if steering control module is present on the CAN/LIN network; compare to other modules and check for network-wide communication problems.
- Step 5 — Measure CAN signals: With key on, measure CAN_H and CAN_L at the module connector with a DVOM or oscilloscope. Look for expected idle voltages and clean differential waveform; check for shorts to battery/ground.
- Step 6 — Isolate wiring: If bus or wiring suspected, disconnect nearby modules or connectors one at a time (per OEM guidance) to isolate source of fault; repair chafed wires or damaged connectors.
- Step 7 — Re-flash / reinitialize: If wiring and power/ground are good and communication fails, check for required software updates or module reprogramming; perform per manufacturer procedures and security requirements.
- Step 8 — Replace module only after verification: Replace the steering control module only after confirming wiring, power, grounds and bus are correct. After replacement, perform coding/programming, calibrations (steering angle sensor), and confirm no residual faults.
- Step 9 — Final verification: Clear codes, perform road test and verify live data and stability/steering systems operate normally; monitor for return of C0115.
Likely causes
- Loose or corroded connector at the steering control module
- Blown fuse or lost battery/ignition feed to the module
- CAN bus wiring shorted to ground or battery, or missing termination
- Damaged steering column harness from movement/wear
- Failed steering control module or steering angle sensor
Fault status
Status
Steering control module communication fault detected — module not responding or communication timeouts on vehicle bus. Check wiring, power/ground, and CAN/LIN network before replacing module.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.5-3.0 hours
Workshop Manuals
Available brands with manuals
2
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