Code 1286
Thanks, Jim

If you DON"T have active handling read this:
Circuit Description
The EBCM runs a centering routine when the vehicle speed goes above 30 km/h (18 mph) . When the vehicle reaches 30 km/h (18 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.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
DTC C1286 can be set after the centering routines completion if the bias value is -30°from the previous bias value.
DTC C1286 can also be set at start up if the bias value was out of range on the last ignition cycle.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
Magnasteer 2 is disabled, ABS/TCS remains active.
Messages displayed on the DTC:
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
Possible causes:
Steering wheel rotated with steering gear disconnected.
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. Check for a faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor.
Faulty EBCM.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
If you DO have active handling read this:
Circuit Description
Steer angle centering is the process by which the EBCM calibrates the steering sensor output so that it reads zero when the steering wheel is centered. The initial steering wheel center position is calculated after driving 10 km/h (6 mph) for more than 10 seconds in a straight line on a fairly level surface. The EBCM uses the Yaw Rate Sensor, Lateral Accelerometer and Wheel Speed Sensors to tell if the vehicle is moving in a straight line. 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.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
DTC C1286 can be set after the centering routines completion if the bias value is plus or minus 40°from the previous bias value.
DTC C1286 can also be set at start up if the bias value was out of range on the last ignition cycle.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
ABS and TCS remain enabled, Active Handling(TM) is disabled.
Indicators that turn on: Car Icon (TCS indicator)
Messages displayed on the DTC: 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 to check the vehicle for proper alignment. The car should not pull in either direction while driving straight on a flat surface. It is very important to find out from the driver when the code was set, (when the SERVICE ACTIVE HNDLG message was activated). This information may help to duplicate the failure.
It is very important that a thorough inspection of the wiring and connectors be performed. Failure to carefully 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.
An intermittent malfunction is most likely caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation, or a wire that is broken inside the insulation. Refer to Testing for Electrical Intermittents in Diagrams, Diagnostic Aids.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.








