GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The power steering control module (PSCM) has a discrete battery positive voltage supply circuit. The PSCM monitors the voltage level on this circuit to ensure the Power Steering System has adequate voltage levels to perform the system functions.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0896 Device Voltage Range/Performance

This vehicle has DTCs which include DTC symptoms. For more information on DTC symptoms, refer to DTC Symptom Description in Vehicle DTC Information.

DTC Symptom

DTC Symptom Descriptor

00

No Additional DTC Information

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ignition is ON, with the engine ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Power Steering System battery voltage is 9-10 volts for at least one second.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • DTC C0896 00 is stored in memory.
    • Steering assist is slightly reduced.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A current DTC will clear when Power Steering System voltage is greater than 10 volts for more than one second.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles with the Power Steering System voltage greater than 10 volts.
    • Using a scan tool.

Test Description

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

  1. This step tests if the voltage malfunction is in the Power Steering System.

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Power Steering Schematics

Connector End Views 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

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. With a scan tool, observe the Battery Voltage parameter in the Power Steering Data List.

Does the scan tool indicate that the Battery Voltage parameter is greater than the specified value?

10 V

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

Go to Step 3

3

Inspect for poor connections at the underhood fuse block stud ring terminal. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 4

4

Inspect for poor connections at the ground terminal G103. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 5

5

Inspect for poor connections at the 80-amp EPS fuse in the underhood fuse block. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect for poor connections at the power steering control module (PSCM) harness connector. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 7

7

Test the battery positive voltage circuit of the PSCM for a high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 8

8

Test the ground circuit of the PSCM for a high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 9

9

Replace the power steering motor and module assembly. Refer to Power Steering Assist Motor Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

10

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

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK