Diagnostic Instructions
DTC Descriptor
DTC C0176 54: System Thermal Error Temperature High
Circuit/System Description
The power steering control module (PSCM) monitors the temperature of the Power Steering System. The PSCM uses voltage, current levels and input from an internal temperature sensor to calculate an estimated system temperature. If the PSCM detects a high
system temperature event is occurring, the amount of assist is reduced to lower system temperature to prevent thermal damage to the power steering components.
Conditions for Running the DTC
| • | The ignition is ON, with the engine ON. |
| • | Power Steering System voltage is 9-16 volts. |
| • | Repetitive steering input is present. |
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The PSCM detects a high system temperature.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | DTC C0176 54 is stored in memory. |
| • | Steering assist is reduced. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | A current DTC will clear when the Power Steering System temperature returns to normal. |
| • | A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive malfunction-free ignition cycles. |
Diagnostic Aids
| • | DTC C0176 54 does not indicate that a malfunction has occurred. Rather that the PSCM had to limit current to the power steering motor to avoid thermal damage to the Power Steering System components. Discuss with the customer about driving
conditions when the steering assist was reduced. |
| • | Inspect the under dash area around the steering column assembly. Ensure that no other components have come in contact with the power steering motor and module assembly, such as under dash insulation, or other electrical components. |
| • | Ensure that no steering components down stream of the power steering column assembly, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, universal joints, or the steering gear assembly, are mechanically binding. Refer to
Increase in Effort While Turning Steering Wheel. |
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Power Steering Schematics
Connector End View Reference
Component Connector End Views
Description and Operation
Power Steering System Description and Operation
Electrical Information Reference
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References for scan tool information
Circuit/System Verification
- Verify that the DTC sets outside of the Conditions for Running and Setting. Since most occurrences of this DTC are caused by excessive driver inputs, review with the customer the conditions under which the DTC set.
| ⇒ | If the DTC set within the Conditions for Running and Setting, the power steering is operating as designed. |
