GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

Steering angle centering is the process which calibrates the steer sensor output so that it reads 0 when the steering wheel is centered, using data from the yaw rate sensor, lateral accelerometer and wheel speeds. Under normal circumstances steer angle centering occurs after approximately 10 seconds of driving in a straight line on a fairly level surface (i.e. a typical road) at > 10 KPH.

The usable output voltage range for the lateral accelerometer and yaw rate sensors is 0.25-4.75 volts. The scan tool will report zero lateral acceleration or yaw rate as 2.5 volts with no sensor bias present. The sensor bias compensates for sensor mounting alignment errors, electronic signal errors, temperature changes, and manufacturing differences.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0253 Centering Error

Conditions for Running the DTC

The vehicle speed is greater than 40 km/h (25 mph).

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The vehicle has been driven for 10 minutes without completing steer angle centering.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the VSES for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The DIC displays the Service Stability System message.
    • The ABS/TCS remains functional.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

The following conditions can cause this concern:

    • Improper steering alignment.
    • Open, short to ground, or short to voltage.
    • Internal lateral accelerometer failure.
    • EBCM internal failure.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. Verify that the condition is current.

  2. Verify that the Lateral Accelerometer Signal parameter is within the valid range.

  3. Verify that the Yaw Rate Sensor parameter is within the valid range.

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Antilock Brake System Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Operate the vehicle under the conditions for running the DTC.

Does DTC C0253 reset?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Diagnostic Aids

3

With a scan tool, observe the Lateral Accelerometer Signal parameter in the VSES data list.

Does the scan tool display within the specified range?

2.3-2.7 V

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 8

4

With a scan tool, observe the Yaw Rate Sensor parameter in the VSES data list.

Does the scan tool display within the specified range?

2.3-2.7 V

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 8

5

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Perform the Diagnostic Test Drive. Refer to Diagnostic Test Drive .

Does DTC C0253 reset?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Diagnostic Aids

6

Replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM). Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

7

Replace the SWPS. Refer to Steering Wheel Position Sensor or Steering Shaft Lower Bearing Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

8

Replace the yaw rate/lateral accelerometer sensor. Refer to Vehicle Yaw Sensor with Vehicle Lateral Accelerometer Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

9

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does DTC C0253 reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK