Hey everyone, now that the nice weather is approaching, I want to start performing some fix's for the car. The one I would like some advice on is my active handling. The active handling message comes on even if im driving straight. Brought the car to the dealership and they just assumed it was the sensor. Im going to bring it to a more reputable dealership to see if that is indeed the only issuse with it (the wheel position feels a bit screwy, thats why i say that) Anyway, is there anyway to purchase the sensor and replace myself? Is this only a dealer part? Also, if I were to get my hands on the part I need (what is the part by the way :o) how hard is something like this to perform, what does it entail? If anyone has any input I would appreciate it, thanks in advance everyone

 

First retrive the trouble/diagnostic codes from your DIC using this link. Write down all the codes completely. Post the codes and we'll go from there.

How to retrieve diagnostic codes

 

c1287 is the code that appears. As I stated, the dealer is telling me they THINK I need a new sensor. Im wondering where this sensor is located and if it is possible to buy and install myself.

 

Difficult to be certain without going into it more. There are a load of elements that make up the active handling system.

I have the same fault and I've tied it down to a steering wheel position sensor (SWPS). I have one ready to install but its not a quick job.

http://www.ddisoftware.com/c5-procs/

 

You certainly can replace the sensor yourself, although, it is a somewhat involved procedure. Also, there are several different sensors that were used so you'll need to identify the one for your car before replacing it. I can send you the procedures required if you decide to do it yourself if a bad sensor is indeed your problem. Here's the diagnostic for the code from the manual.



Circuit Description
The EBCM uses three inputs from the Steering Wheel Position sensor:

• Phase A digital input
• Phase B digital input
• Analog input

This information is used to calculate three things:

• The front wheels position when centered.
• The front wheels position when turning.
• The vehicles lateral acceleration.

The EBCM runs a centering routine when the vehicle speed goes above 10 km/h (6 mph). When the vehicle reaches 10 km/h (6 mph), the EBCM monitors the Steering Wheel Position Sensor inputs (Phase A, Phase B and Analog voltage) to see if the steering wheel is moving. If the steering wheel is not moving for a set period of time, then the EBCM assumes the vehicle is going in a straight line. At this point, the EBCM looks at the analog voltage signal and reads the voltage. This voltage, normally around 2.5 V, is then considered the center position and the digital degrees also become zero at the same time. This centering routine is necessary to compensate for wear in the steering and suspension. Wear in the steering and suspension can result in a change in the relationship between the steering wheel and the front wheels. By running the centering routine the EBCM can compensate for these changes by changing the digital and analog center position.

The EBCM uses the digital input (Phase A and Phase B) from the Steering Wheel Position Sensor to calculate the direction the driver of the vehicle is trying to steer during an ABS and Active Handling event. This information is also used to calculate the vehicles lateral acceleration for Magnasteer®2.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

• DTC C1287 can be set any time ignition is present. A fault exists if the steer rate (speed that the steering wheel appears to be turning) exceeds the limits set by the EBCM.
• DTC C1287 will set if the analog degrees differs from the digital degrees by more than 25 degrees for 5 seconds when the vehicle is not in a Active Handling event, or 1 second if the vehicle is in an Active Handling event.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets
ABS and TCS remain enabled, Active Handling™ is disabled.

• Indicators that turn on: Car Icon (TCS indicator)
• Messages displayed on the DIC: Service Active HNDLG Service Vehicle Soon

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

• Condition for DTC is no longer present and scan tool clear DTC function is used.
• Fifty ignition cycles have passed with no DTCs detected.

Diagnostic Aids
It is very important that a thorough inspection of the wiring and connectors be performed. Failure to carefully and fully inspect wiring and connectors may result in misdiagnosis, causing part replacement with reappearance of the malfunction. Check connector C102 RH side rear of engine compartment for water intrusion or missing plugs, and that the connector is oriented horizontal to prevent water intrusion.

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

Checks for normal state change of Phase A and Phase B when turning left.

Checks for normal state change of Phase A and Phase B when turning right.

 

good info posted thanks

 

Any chance you just bought new wheels or maybe changed tires?

 

This is definatly some good information. Im always so impressed by the knowledge the members of this forum have. It certainly does seem to be an involved process something im not sure if im ready to tackle. I will keep all this information and let you all know if Im going to give it a try. Thanks for everything Oh one more thing, does anyone know where to/ how much a sensor costs?

 

Nope did not change anything