C1659

Code

Generic C — Chassis

Steering Angle Sensor Circuit — Intermittent Signal

Brand: Generic

Type: C — Chassis

Views: UK: 5 EN: 17 RU: 7

AI status

Completed

ready

Completed 100%

Page language: EN

Causes

Loose or corroded connector at steering angle sensor
Damaged/frayed wiring or broken conductor in steering column harness (including clock spring)
Intermittent short to voltage or ground from nearby circuits
Faulty steering angle sensor (internal intermittent)
Intermittent CAN bus or network communication fault
Poor ground at chassis or sensor mounting

Symptoms

Stability control or ABS warning lamp illuminated
Steering angle or ESC system disabled or degraded
Inconsistent or jumping steering angle value in scan tool live data
Possible intermittent loss of power steering assist (on some vehicles)
Unusual behavior on cornering events or initial steering return-to-center problems

What to check

Read stored/frozen DTCs and associated codes from related modules (ABS, airbag, BCM, ECU)
Scan live steering angle sensor data with wheels centered and turned slowly both directions
Perform wiggle test of steering column harness and clock spring while watching live data for dropouts
Visually inspect connectors, pins and wiring for corrosion, damage, or water entry
Check ECU/ABS module for multiple communication codes (CAN errors, U-codes)
Backprobe sensor connector to verify reference voltage and ground present with ignition on

Signal parameters

Typical sensor signal types: analog variable voltage (0–5 V) or digital (pulse/encoded) — output should change smoothly with steering rotation
Reference supply often ~5 V and a solid ground; expected reference present with ignition ON
At center position a symmetric mid-range voltage (often ~2.5 V) or a defined ‘zero’ angle CAN message is expected
Live data update rate typically regular (e.g., steady periodic updates). Intermittent faults show dropouts, spikes, or frozen values
Abnormal: rapid voltage spikes, open circuit (no voltage), or signal dropping to 0 V intermittently

Diagnostic algorithm

Record all DTCs from all modules and freeze frame data. Note whether C1659 is the only code or accompanied by CAN/communication codes.
Verify vehicle is safe to work on: wheels straight ahead, battery stable. Use appropriate steering lock procedures if needed.
With scan tool, observe live SAS output at rest and while slowly rotating steering. Note abnormalities (dropouts, jumps, frozen values).
Perform a wiggle test: with connector(s) accessible, wiggle harness/clock spring and connectors while watching live data for intermittent loss. Reproduce the fault if possible.
Visually inspect the SAS connector, pins, and nearby harness for corrosion, bent pins, insulation damage, or water. Repair or replace damaged connectors/wiring.
Backprobe reference and signal circuits at the sensor with DMM/oscilloscope: confirm reference voltage, ground continuity, and sensor waveform. Check for intermittent opens/shorts.
Isolate clock spring: verify continuity of each conductor through steering rotation if serviceable. Replace clock spring if intermittent continuity is found.
If wiring and connectors check good, swap or bench-test steering angle sensor (if serviceable) or replace with known-good unit and retest.
Check CAN bus for errors: measure CAN high/low voltages, check for proper termination and absence of intermittent shorts. Repair CAN problems before replacing sensor.
After repairs, clear codes, perform sensor calibration/zero position procedure per manufacturer, and road test to confirm fault does not return.

Likely causes

Wiring/connector fault in steering column (most common)
Worn or damaged clock spring causing intermittent contact
Sensor internal failure due to moisture or vibration
Loose connector or partial pin contact at the sensor
Intermittent CAN/communications fault upstream (module or harness)

Fault status

⚠️ Status

Intermittent steering angle sensor signal detected — unstable or lost signal from the steering angle sensor circuit. Check wiring, connectors, clock spring, sensor, and network communications.

🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium

⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours