What it means
The Power Steering Control Module has stopped transmitting on the vehicle data bus, so other control units no longer receive its messages. Electric power steering can fail, requiring much higher steering effort. Typical causes are loss of power or ground at the module, an open or shorted CAN/LIN bus wire, a connector fault, or an internal module failure.
At a glance
- Usually lights the warning light of the system that lost communication
How it works
The Power Steering Control Module controls or coordinates electric steering assist and sends status messages to other modules over the vehicle network. This code sets when those messages are missing; a failed fuse or power feed, poor ground, damaged CAN wiring, gateway routing fault, or module failure can interrupt communication and may disable electric assist.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- EPS module unpowered (large fuse on battery)
- CAN wiring to EPS broken
- Gateway module routing CAN messages incorrectly
Symptoms
- Multiple warning lights may illuminate
- Affected modules may go into limp mode or shut down
- Specific functions inoperative depending on module
- Diagnostic tools may show communication faults
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and scan all modules for steering, low-voltage, and network codes; check whether the Power Steering Control Module is reachable with the scan tool.
- Check the battery and charging system, then verify the EPS module’s high-current fuse and other specified power feeds and grounds using the wiring diagram.
- Inspect the Power Steering Control Module connectors and CAN wiring for corrosion, loose pins, chafing, or damage, paying attention to the high-current supply connection.
- Check gateway status and network communication to determine whether the EPS module is offline or its messages are not being routed.
- If the module has correct power and ground, test the CAN circuit to the manufacturer’s procedure and specification before replacing the module.
Common fixes
- Restore battery and charging-system voltage if low voltage is present.
- Repair a blown EPS fuse, poor ground, or damaged power feed to the Power Steering Control Module.
- Repair a loose or corroded connector or damaged CAN wiring to the EPS module.
- Correct a verified gateway routing issue.
- Replace the Power Steering Control Module only after its high-current supply, grounds, and network path test correctly.
Can I keep driving?
Electric steering assist may be reduced or lost, making the steering much heavier, especially at low speed; avoid driving if effort is excessive or unpredictable. If steering remains controllable, proceed cautiously to a safe place for inspection and avoid tight maneuvers or high speeds.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.