GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

Steer angle centering is the process by which the electronic brake control module (EBCM) calibrates the steering sensor output so that the output reads zero when the steering wheel is centered.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0253 Centering Error

Conditions for Running the DTC

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

Conditions for Setting the DTC

If the steering angle sensor controller area network (CAN) message or the EBCM indicates an uncentered sensor

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

If equipped, the following actions occur:

    • The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) and for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • A malfunction DTC will set.
    • The ABS indicator turns ON.
    • The Stability indicator turns ON.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles if the condition for the malfunction is no longer present.
    • Using a scan tool.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

Perform the steering angle sensor centering procedure.

Test Description

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

  1. This step checks to see if other DTC is set.

  2. This step checks to see if steering angle sensor is centered.

Step

Action

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

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Install a scan tool.
  3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  4. Select the ABS DTC display function.

Does the scan tool display any DTC other than DTC C0253?

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle

Go to Step 3

3

Perform the steering angle sensor centering procedure. Refer to Steering Angle Sensor Centering .

Did you successfully complete the centering procedure?

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

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

Did DTC C0253 reset?

Go to Step 6

Go to Diagnostic Aids

5

Replace the steering angle sensor. Refer to Steering Wheel Position Sensor or Steering Shaft Lower Bearing Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 7

--

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 7

--

7

  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 test.

Does the DTC reset?

Go to Step 2

System OK