C0176

DTC C0176

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor
DTC C0176 54
- System Thermal Error

Circuit/System Description

The power steering control module (PSCM) monitors the temperature of the power steering system. The PSCM uses voltage, current levels and input from an internal temperature sensor to calculate an estimated system temperature. If the PSCM detects a high system temperature event is occurring, the amount of assist is reduced to lower system temperature to prevent thermal damage to the power steering components.

Conditions for Running the DTC

* Engine Running.
* Power steering system voltage is 9-16 volts.
* Repetitive steering input is present.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The PSCM detects a high system temperature.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

* DTC C0176 54 is stored in memory.
* Steering assist is reduced.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

* A current DTC will clear when the Power Steering System temperature returns to normal.
* A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive malfunction-free ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

* DTC C0176 54 does not indicate that a malfunction has occurred. Rather that the PSCM had to limit current to the power steering motor to avoid thermal damage to the Power Steering System components.
* Inspect the under dash area around the steering column assembly. Ensure that no other components have come in contact with the power steering motor and module assembly, such as under dash insulation, or other electrical components.
* Ensure that no steering components down stream of the power steering column assembly, such as ball joints, tie rod ends, universal joints, or the steering gear assembly, are mechanically binding.

Reference Information
Schematic Reference

Power Steering Schematics Electrical Diagrams
Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views Connector End Views By Name
Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation (Electronic Power Steering) Power Steering System (Electronic Power Steering)Power Steering System Description and Operation (Hydraulic Power Steering) Power Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering)
Electrical Information Reference

* Circuit Testing Circuit Testing
* Connector Repairs Connector Repairs
* Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
* Wiring Repairs Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References Programming and Relearning for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Verify that the DTC sets outside of the Conditions for Running and Setting. Since most occurrences of this DTC are caused by excessive driver inputs, review with the customer the conditions under which the DTC set.

If the DTC set within the Conditions for Running and Setting, the power steering is operating as designed.