C1441

Code

Other C — Chassis

Steering Phase A Circuit Signal Is Not Sensed

Brand: Other

Type: C — Chassis

Views: UK: 24 EN: 37 RU: 23

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Page language: EN

Causes

Open or shorted wiring in Phase A circuit
Faulty steering angle / rotary encoder (Phase A channel)
Corroded, loose or damaged connector at the sensor or module
Failed clock spring (spiral cable) or column wiring harness damage
Poor or missing sensor power or ground
Blown fuse supplying the steering sensor/steering module

Symptoms

EPS / steering warning lamp illuminated
Loss, reduction, or intermittent loss of power steering assist
Steering-wheel angle/position readout incorrect or not available
ABS, traction control, or stability control warning lights or degraded operation
Steering feel inconsistent or sudden changes in assist
Diagnostic trouble code C1441 stored in control module memory

What to check

Read DTCs and freeze-frame data with a scan tool; note any related codes
Check battery voltage (low voltage can cause sensor faults)
Visually inspect steering column area, connectors, and clock spring for damage or corrosion
Verify relevant fuses and relays are intact
Backprobe sensor connector and measure reference power and ground at the steering angle sensor
Wiggle harness and connector while watching live data to reproduce fault

Signal parameters

Typical steering encoder signals: square or sine-like Hall/optical waveform, 0–5 V digital-type or pulse output depending on vehicle
Reference supply usually 5 V (check vehicle spec) and ground present at sensor
Phase A should produce a repeating waveform when steering angle changes; frequency increases with rotation speed
Phase relationships: if there are multiple phases, Phase A should be in expected phase relationship (e.g., 90° offset) to Phase B/C
If using a PWM or digital output, logic levels usually TTL/CMOS compatible (approx. 0–5 V) — consult OEM wiring diagrams for exact values

Diagnostic algorithm

Connect a diagnostic scanner; record all related codes and live-data for steering angle/phase channels. Clear codes and attempt to re-create the fault. 2) Perform a visual inspection of the steering column, connector, and clock spring; replace clock spring if damaged. 3) Verify battery voltage is within spec and check/replace any related fuses. 4) Backprobe the sensor harness: confirm sensor reference voltage and ground are present with key on. 5) With the sensor powered, measure the Phase A signal while rotating the steering wheel. Use an oscilloscope to confirm a proper waveform (amplitude, frequency, and phase relative to Phase B if available). 6) If Phase A signal is absent or incorrect, perform continuity tests from the sensor connector to the control module pin; repair any opens/shorts. 7) Repair or replace damaged wiring, corroded connectors, or the clock spring as required. 8) If wiring and connectors are good but Phase A signal still missing, replace the steering angle sensor/encoder. 9) If new sensor does not restore signal, suspect the steering/EPS control module input circuit; verify inputs at the module and consider module replacement only after wiring verified. 10) After repairs, clear codes and road test to confirm the fault is resolved.

Likely causes

Damaged/shorted Phase A signal wire between steering sensor and control module
Connector corrosion or bent pins at steering angle sensor or module
Failed steering angle sensor/encoder (internal Hall/optical element for Phase A)
Clock spring damage causing intermittent signal when steering wheel turns
Blown fuse or poor ground to sensor circuit

Fault status

⚠️ Status

Control module detected no valid Steering Phase A signal from the steering angle sensor/encoder. The module stored DTC C1441 when the expected Phase A waveform or logic level was not present during self-monitoring.

🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium

⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours