Question(s) regarding steering wheel position sensor
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 116
Likes: 2
From: Rochester New York
Question(s) regarding steering wheel position sensor
Hey folks,
My car is a 1997 A4, ~45k on the clock, daily driver for me; I've had it since 7/2009.
Every so often, my car will throw the C1286 code. Been doing it since I've had the car.
I notice absolutely no difference in how the car drives, or any ill effects. So I haven't gotten around to fixing the issue. From reading on here, I've tried to read with my multimeter from the sensor, but its very awkward under the dash and haven't been able to do so.
What does this sensor actually do on a non-active handling '97?
Thanks,
-Mike
My car is a 1997 A4, ~45k on the clock, daily driver for me; I've had it since 7/2009.
Every so often, my car will throw the C1286 code. Been doing it since I've had the car.
I notice absolutely no difference in how the car drives, or any ill effects. So I haven't gotten around to fixing the issue. From reading on here, I've tried to read with my multimeter from the sensor, but its very awkward under the dash and haven't been able to do so.
What does this sensor actually do on a non-active handling '97?
Thanks,
-Mike
Racer
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 488
Likes: 2
From: Myrtle Beach SC
I also get the C1286 code. The way I understand things, the steering wheel position sensor plays a part in the "centering routine" performed by the EBTCM. If, at the end of the centering routine, the bias value is + or - 30 degrees from the previous value, the code will set. It will also set at startup if the previous value was out of range. The centering routine is necessary to compensate for wear in the steering and suspension components.
The two repair options for this code are to replace the steering wheel position sensor or the EBTCM. My understanding is that the code does not adversely effect vehicle operation. ABS/TCS remain active when C1286 is set...it just creates a nuisance message on the DIC every time you start or stop the car ("Service Vehicle Soon").
I would start with the steering wheelposition sensor, because a replacement EBTCM is going to be hard to come by. There are some threads regarding EBTCM refurbishment on this forum that may beof some interest to you.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
The two repair options for this code are to replace the steering wheel position sensor or the EBTCM. My understanding is that the code does not adversely effect vehicle operation. ABS/TCS remain active when C1286 is set...it just creates a nuisance message on the DIC every time you start or stop the car ("Service Vehicle Soon").
I would start with the steering wheelposition sensor, because a replacement EBTCM is going to be hard to come by. There are some threads regarding EBTCM refurbishment on this forum that may beof some interest to you.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Racer
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 391
Likes: 67
From: Oak Point Texas formerly okc
St. Jude Donor '16
Mike I also have a 97 with the same code kicking up. I had it checked out and was told it may be a simple false reading. However, I am not sure I am buying that. I have done nothing and have thought about having the code turned off. I have been at a loss as well. I will keep track of your postings and if you find anything, make sure it is posted! Same problem, no answer. Pops.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 116
Likes: 2
From: Rochester New York
Thanks guys. It really is just a nuisance for me, so I think I'm going to leave it alone until I'm ready to sell the car next year, and replace the steering wheel position sensor at that time.
-Mike
-Mike
