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For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2006 🢒 Equinox 🢒 Vehicle Control Systems 🢒 Vehicle DTC Information 🢒 DTC C0476

Circuit Description

The power steering control module (PSCM) monitors the temperature of the electric power steering (EPS) system. The PSCM uses voltage and current levels to calculate an estimated system temperature. If the PSCM detects a high system temperature, the amount of assist is reduced to lower the EPS system temperature to prevent thermal damage to the system.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0476 -- Electric Steering Motor Range/Performance

Condition for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The PSCM detects a high system temperature.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets
    • A DTC C0476 is stored in memory.
    • Steering assist is reduced.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC
    • A current DTC will clear when the EPS system temperature returns to normal.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive malfunction free ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids
    • DTC C0476 does not indicate that a malfunction has occurred. DTC C0476 indicates that the PSCM had to limit current to the EPS motor to avoid system thermal damage.
    • Inspect the area around the EPS assembly. Ensure that no other components have come in contact with the EPS assembly such as insulation or other electrical components.
    • Ensure that no steering components, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, universal joints, or the steering rack and pinion are mechanically binding.
    • Inspect for aftermarket items that may increase the amount of steering assist required.

Test Description

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

  1. Tests if the high system temperature is system, or driving condition related. Most occurrences of the DTC are caused by frequent static steering, such as parking maneuvers and high ambient temperatures,

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Power Steering Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Power Steering Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information

2

Review the electric power steering (EPS) system with the customer to determine the conditions under which the DTC set.

Did steering conditions or high ambient temperatures cause DTC C0476 to set?

Go to Step 3

Go to Diagnostic Aids

3
  1. Clear the DTCs with a scan tool.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC.

Does DTC C0476 reset?

Go to Step 2

System OK