code c1281
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 139
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From: statesboro ga
code c1281
I read about code c1281 and understand its about the steering sensor...What will happen if I do not get if fixed right away??? Is this something that can effect the performance or driveability in a negative way??? If so, what could happen....thanks
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 3,692
Likes: 5
From: Hayward CA
Worst case scenario...... the sensor will trigger the EBTCM to apply braking to one of the front brakes. 
(I had this happen)
Replace it as soon as you can. If you're worried about it, turn off TC/AH and don't drive like a maniac.
(I had this happen)Replace it as soon as you can. If you're worried about it, turn off TC/AH and don't drive like a maniac.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 41,066
Likes: 9,832
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
If you have C1281 the Active Handling system is turned off until the code is cleared. Nothing will happen. An inadvertant action may take place if there is no code and the sensor has an error. This is a very narrow window of opportunity.
Bill
Bill
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 139
Likes: 0
From: statesboro ga
Is the sensor itself bad or does it have to be re-calibrated somehow by a scanner or such.. I believe that a mechanic shop may have done this when they put on a new balancer.... what needs to be done???
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 1,727
Likes: 20
From: Carson City, NV
Bill will have the answer for you, so take his advice. If it were me, I would disconnect the steering linkeage and re-center the wheel. They probably had to remove the rack and pinion assy. to work on the pulley. If they didn't get it back exactly as it was before, then this could be the problem. Bill knows how to calibrate this most likely.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 4,933
Likes: 30
From: San Rafael CA
They screwed up and let the steering wheel rotate .... you're lucky they didn't damage the airbag clockspring .... From another post (SEARCH is a powerful tool ....)
If you have a VOM you can check it yourself. At the base of the steering column is the SWPS connection. Separate it and test the middle lt blue wire with the ingition on. It will read about .24V or 4.9V. If its low, unbolt steering connector in engine compartment and rotate wheel to the right 360 deg. If it is 4.9V make one turn to the left. Then retest Voltage. By the way, if you are big, it is easier to do if you remove the front seat--there is not a lot of room to work with in the cabin.
DO NOT turn the wheel except as listed above. Disconnect battery for at least 5 minutes before starting ANY work on the steering column. This will allow the airbag system to discharge and lessen the chance of firing the bag inadvertently.
