C1824

Code

Generic C — Chassis

Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Fault

Brand: Generic

Type: C — Chassis

Views: UK: 18 EN: 13 RU: 16

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Page language: EN

Causes

Open, short to ground, or short to power in sensor signal or harness
Corroded, loose, or contaminated connector at the pressure sensor
Failed power steering pressure sensor
Poor or missing reference voltage or ground to the sensor (ECM/PCM/PSCM side)
Damaged wiring from chafing, heat, or crushed harness
Faulty body/chassis/steering control module or incorrect module software/calibration

Symptoms

Power Steering/Service Steering warning lamp or message illuminated
Reduced or lost power-assist (heavier steering effort) or intermittent assist
Steering assist may be erratic (varying effort) while driving
Possible abnormal engine idle or surges if power draw changes
DTC stored and inability to pass emissions/inspection readiness

What to check

Read freeze frame and live data with a scan tool; note sensor voltage/pressure values and when the code set
Visually inspect the sensor connector and wiring for damage, corrosion, or moisture
Check for related codes (module communication, power/ground faults)
Verify fuses and power supplies for steering system and related control modules
Backprobe sensor connector to check reference voltage, signal voltage, and ground at key ON/engine running
Wiggle wiring harness while watching live data to detect intermittent faults

Signal parameters

Reference voltage: typically 5 V (may be 3.3 V on some systems) — verify with manufacturer spec
Signal output: typically a variable voltage proportional to pressure (commonly ~0.5–4.5 V range) — consult vehicle spec
At rest/low pressure: lower end of signal range; with steering load/pressure: signal increases toward high end
Continuity: expect continuity between sensor ground and chassis ground; open or infinite resistance indicates problem
Resistance values vary by design; consult OEM service manual for exact ohms if checking passive sensors

Diagnostic algorithm

Connect an advanced scan tool and note DTC freeze frame, occurrence count, and live sensor parameter while key on and engine running.
Visually inspect sensor, connector, and harness routing near the pump/rack for damage, pinched wires, or fluid contamination. Repair obvious damage.
With ignition ON (engine off), backprobe reference, signal, and ground terminals at the sensor: verify reference voltage present, good ground, and signal voltage within expected idle/park range.
Start engine and operate steering left/right to raise hydraulic pressure; observe signal change. If signal does not move or is stuck at low/high, suspect sensor or wiring.
Check continuity and resistance of wiring back to steering control module/ECM; check for short to battery or ground. Repair any short/open.
If wiring and power/ground are good, substitute a known-good pressure sensor (if available) or remove and bench-test sensor per manufacturer procedures.
If replaced sensor still shows fault and wiring/power/ground are confirmed good, test/verify the steering control module/ECM reference and input circuits; consider module diagnostics or reflash as specified by OEM.
After repairs, clear codes, perform steering system self-tests if required, road-test to verify proper operation and ensure code does not return.

Likely causes

Broken or pinched signal/ground/reference wire near the steering rack or steering pump
Water intrusion/corrosion at the sensor connector
Sensor failed from age, contamination, or exposure to high temperature
Blown fuse or poor ground for the power/reference circuit feeding the sensor
Intermittent connector connection caused by vibration

Fault status

⚠️ Status

C1824 — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Fault. Sensor signal out of range or electrical fault in sensor circuit. Inspect wiring, connector, sensor, and module.

🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium

⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5–3.0 hours