C1369

Code

Generic C — Chassis

Steering Angle Sensor Circuit Malfunction

Brand: Generic

Type: C — Chassis

Views: UK: 8 EN: 6 RU: 7

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Page language: EN

Causes

Open or short in steering angle sensor wiring harness
Corroded, loose or damaged connector at the sensor or control module
Failed steering angle sensor or internal electronics
Faulty clockspring/spiral cable (steering column) causing broken conductor
Poor sensor ground or missing supply voltage
Intermittent contact from steering wheel/column movement or pinch points

Symptoms

ABS, ESC, VSC or traction control warning lamp illuminated
Vehicle stability/traction control disabled or limited functionality
Cruise control or lane systems disabled (if dependent on steering angle)
Steering wheel angle displayed incorrect or not updating on diagnostic scanner
Unexpected or unnecessary stability control interventions
Fault may be intermittent and correlate with steering wheel movement

What to check

Read and record all stored DTCs and freeze-frame data with a factory-level or capable scan tool
Check live steering angle sensor data (degrees/voltage) while turning the wheel slowly — compare to physical steering wheel movement
Inspect connector(s) and wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or pin push-out; unplug and visually inspect pins
Check sensor supply voltage and ground at the connector with key ON (backprobe): expected reference voltage and good ground
Wiggle the wiring and clockspring while observing live data for intermittent changes
Verify CAN/communications are healthy and no other modules report bus errors

Signal parameters

Analog/potentiometer-type: center (steering straight) typically ~2.5 V with full scale near 0–5 V; voltage should change smoothly with wheel rotation
Hall-effect/digital: sensor provides a digital pulse or CAN message — expect continuous angle output in degrees with smooth, proportional changes as wheel turns
Update rate typically 5–100 Hz depending on sensor/module — no long dropouts
Resistance or continuity checks on clockspring assemblies should be stable and within manufacturer limits; no open or high-resistance circuits

Diagnostic algorithm

Connect a scan tool, record codes, freeze-frame and live SAS data. Note whether the code is current or historical. 2) Visually inspect sensor, connectors and harness from sensor to ABS/ESC module and through the steering column. Look for chafing, pinched areas and corrosion. 3) With ignition ON (engine off), backprobe sensor connector: verify reference supply (usually battery or 5 V), ground continuity, and signal voltage. 4) With a helper slowly turn the steering wheel while watching live signal: signal should change smoothly and proportionally. If signal is erratic or drops out, suspect wiring/clockspring or sensor. 5) Perform a wiggle test along the wiring harness and around the clockspring while monitoring live data to reproduce the fault. 6) If sensor wiring and connectors are good, measure sensor resistance/outputs per manufacturer spec; if out of range, replace sensor. 7) If the problem is in the clockspring (common when faults occur only with wheel movement), remove steering wheel per safety procedures and inspect/replace clockspring as required. 8) If repairs are performed or sensor replaced, perform required steering angle sensor calibration/zeroing using a scan tool and complete a road test to verify ABS/ESC behavior and that no codes return. 9) If wiring, sensor and clockspring check good, investigate ABS/ESC module and CAN bus diagnostics or replace module only after communication tests confirm module fault. Always follow airbag/steering column safety procedures (battery disconnect and required waiting period) before performing steering wheel or clockspring work.