Buick Encore: Diagnostic information and procedures

DTC C0176: Control module temperature sensor high temperature

DIAGNOSTIC CODE INDEX

DTC C0176: CONTROL MODULE TEMPERATURE SENSOR HIGH TEMPERATURE

Diagnostic Instructions

Diagnostic Instructions

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

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0176 54

Control Module Temperature Sensor High Temperature

Circuit/System Description

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

Conditions for Running the DTC

• Ignition ON, engine running.
• Power steering system voltage is 9-16 V.
• Repetitive steering input applied.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

• Ignition ON, engine running.
• Power steering system voltage is 9-16 V.
• Repetitive steering input applied.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The power steering control module 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 on the next malfunction-free ignition cycle.

Diagnostic Aids

• DTC C0176 54 does not indicate that a malfunction has occurred. Rather that the power steering control module had to limit current to the power steering motor to avoid thermal damage to the power steering system components. Discuss with the customer about driving conditions when the steering assist was reduced.
• 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 (Encore), Power Steering Schematics (Encore)

Connector End View Reference

WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - ENCORE WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - Encore

Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Verification

1. 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. Operate the vehicle within the conditions that the customer experienced, avoiding excessive inputs, and verify the DTC does not reset.

If the DTC did not set outside of the conditions for running and setting

1. Ignition ON.
2. Verify that no steering components down stream of the power steering column assembly are mechanically binding. Refer to Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (N40), Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NJ1)

• If steering components are mechanically binding, replace the mechanically binding steering components.
• If no steering components are mechanically binding

3. Replace the Steering Gear.

• If the DTC set outside of the conditions for running and setting

2. All OK. The power steering is operating as designed.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.

• Steering Column Replacement (Mexico, N40) , Steering Column Replacement (Canada, NJ1) , Steering Column Replacement (United States, NJ1)
• Control Module References for power steering control module replacement, programming and setup.

DTC C0475: Electric steering motor

Diagnostic Instructions

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

DTC Descriptors

DTC C0475 00

Electric Steering Motor Circuit Malfunction

DTC C0475 64

Electric Steering Motor Slip Detected

Circuit/System Description

The power steering control module continuously monitors the voltage and current levels being commanded to the 3-phase steering assist motor. The power steering control module compares the desired and actual current levels to detect malfunctions in the internal power steering assist motor circuits.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The power steering control module detects a short to ground, short to voltage, or an open/high resistance on any of the internal power steering assist motor circuits.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

• The DTC is stored in memory.
• No steering assist.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive malfunction free ignition cycles.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Power Steering Schematics (Encore), Power Steering Schematics (Encore)

Connector End View Reference

WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - ENCORE WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - Encore

Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Testing

1. Verify that DTC C0475 is not set.

• If the DTC is set

Replace the K43 Power Steering Control Module.

• If the DTC is not set

2. All OK.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.

• Steering Column Replacement (Mexico, N40) , Steering Column Replacement (Canada, NJ1) , Steering Column Replacement (United States, NJ1)
• Control Module References for power steering control module replacement, programming and setup.

DTC C0545: Steering wheel torque sensor

Diagnostic Instructions

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

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0545 00

Steering Wheel Torque Sensor Malfunction

DTC C0545 4B

Steering Wheel Torque Sensor Calibration Not Learned

Circuit/System Description

The power steering control module continuously monitors the digital torque sensor's torque signal. As the steering wheel is turned and torsional twist is applied to the steering shaft, the steering input and output shafts are monitored via the torque signal circuit and then processed by the power steering control module to calculate the steering torque.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The power steering control module detects a short to ground, short to voltage, or an open/high resistance on any of the torque sensor circuits.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

• DTC C0545 is stored in memory.
• No steering assist.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive malfunction-free ignition cycles.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Power Steering Schematics (Encore), Power Steering Schematics (Encore)

Connector End View Reference

WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - ENCORE WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - Encore

Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Verification

1. Ignition ON.
2. Verify the scan tool Steering Input Torque parameter changes when turning the steering wheel.

• If the parameter does not change

1. Program the K43 Power Steering Control Module.
2. Verify the DTC does not set.

• If the DTC sets, replace the Steering Column.
• If the DTC does not set

3. All OK.

• If the parameter changes

3. All OK.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.

• Steering Column Replacement (Mexico, N40) , Steering Column Replacement (Canada, NJ1) , Steering Column Replacement (United States, NJ1)
• Control Module References for power steering control module replacement, programming and setup.

DTC C056D: Electronic control unit hardware

Diagnostic Instructions

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

DTC Descriptors

DTC C056D 39

Electronic Control Unit Hardware Internal Malfunction

DTC C056D 3B

Electronic Control Unit Hardware Internal Self - Test Malfunction

DTC C056D 3C

Electronic Control Unit Hardware Internal Communication Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

The power steering control module continuously monitors the voltage and current levels being commanded to the 3-phase steering assist motor. The power steering control module compares the desired and actual current levels to detect malfunctions in the internal power steering assist motor circuits

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition OFF, ACCESSORY, or RUN mode.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The power steering control module has detected missing calibration data, calibration procedure not run or completed, missing VIN, or internal software malfunction

Actions Taken When DTC Sets

• DTC is stored in memory
• Steering assist is set to a default level.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

A current or history DTC will clear after the power steering control module has been programmed and calibrated.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Power Steering Schematics (Encore), Power Steering Schematics (Encore)

Connector End View Reference

WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - ENCORE WIRING SYSTEMS AND POWER MANAGEMENT - COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEWS - INDEX - Encore

Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

1. Ignition ON.
2. Verify that DTC C056D is not set.

• If DTC C056D is set

1. Program the K43 Power Steering Control Module.
2. Verify the DTC does not set.

• If the DTC sets, replace the Steering Column.
• If the DTC does not set

3. All OK.

• If DTC C056D is not set

3. All OK.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the repair.

• Steering Column Replacement (Mexico, N40) , Steering Column Replacement (Canada, NJ1) , Steering Column Replacement (United States, NJ1)
• Control Module References for power steering control module replacement, programming and setup.

SYMPTOMS - POWER STEERING SYSTEM

NOTE: Review the system description and operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Power Steering System Description and Operation.

Visual/Physical Inspection

• Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the power steering system.
• Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
• If equipped with hydraulic power steering, inspect for leaking power steering components. If necessary, refer to Power Steering Fluid Leaks.
• If equipped with hydraulic power steering, verify the power steering fluid level is correct. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid.
• If equipped with hydraulic power steering, inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:

• Milky fluid - water
• Brown fluid - burnt
• Debris in fluid - plastic or dirt

• If the hydraulic power steering system is contaminated, flush the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Flushing.

Symptoms List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

• Power Steering Fluid Leaks
• Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1), Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder
• Noise from the Power Steering System (2H0, N40), Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (LUJ, N40)
• Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (N40), Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1)
• Increase in Effort While Turning Steering Wheel
• Poor Return of Steering Wheel
• Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (N40), Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NJ1)

Power steering system test

Special Tools

CH-44721 Power Steering Analyzer

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Rack and Pinion System

Fig. 3: Testing Rack and Pinion System Pressures

Test Description

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

5

This step tests the system for restrictions.

7

This step tests the following components for the following conditions:

• The power steering pump for internal leaks
• The power steering pipes for kinks

8

This step tests the ability of the power steering pump to regulate flow at maximum pressure.

10

This step tests the ability of the power steering pump to regulate flow under normal operating conditions

12

This step tests the internal components of the power steering pump and the steering gear.

Power Steering System Test

POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKS

Special Tools

GE-28431-6 Fluorescent Dye

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

NOTE:

• If fluid is found on a manual steering gear or on an electronic power steering gear, do not replace steering gear. Vehicles equipped with these systems do not use hydraulic power steering fluid. The fluid may be assembly fluid or another system fluid.
• Clean the components and identify the sources of the leaks before attempting to repair or replace any power steering components. Clearly mark all locations of leaks with paint, marker, or equivalent for warranty identification and engineering root cause analysis.

Some customers may comment on a fluid LEAK or NOISY power steering pump. Upon inspection, the technician may find power steering fluid leaking from the hydraulic power steering system. Use the following inspection procedure in order to diagnose the source of the leak and take appropriate action to correct the condition.

1. Inspect the fluid level in the power steering fluid reservoir. Refer to Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid. If the fluid level is NOT low, a careful analysis of the condition is necessary to confirm that the type of fluid is actually power steering fluid.
2. Visually inspect the power steering system and components where the fluid has accumulated.

CAUTION: Do not clean using brake cleaner or other reactive solvents as these solvents can damage rubber gaskets, seals and bushings.

3. Use a clean towel or a rag in order to completely clean off all residual fluid from the power steering components.
4. Add 30 cc (1 oz) of GE-28431-6 dye to the power steering fluid.
5. Start the vehicle and warm the steering system by turning to the left steering stop and to the right steering stop 10 times with the weight of the vehicle on the front tires.
6. Turn vehicle engine OFF.
7. Shine a black light on the area where the residual fluid accumulated. Identify the sources of the leaks.
8. Mark all locations of leaks with paint, marker, or equivalent.
9. Repair or replace all affected components.

RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (NJ1)

Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1)

RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (2H0, N40)

Rattle, Clunk, or Shudder Noise from the Power Steering System (2H0, N40)

RATTLE, CLUNK, OR SHUDDER NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (LUJ, N40)

WHINE OR GROWL NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (N40)

Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (N40)

WHINE OR GROWL NOISE FROM THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM (NJ1)

Whine or Growl Noise from the Power Steering System (NJ1)

INCREASE IN EFFORT WHILE TURNING STEERING WHEEL

Increase in Effort While Turning Steering Wheel

POOR RETURN OF STEERING WHEEL

Poor Return of Steering Wheel

STEERING EFFORT HARD OR TOO EASY IN ONE OR BOTH DIRECTIONS (N40)

Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (N40)

STEERING EFFORT HARD OR TOO EASY IN ONE OR BOTH DIRECTIONS (NJ1)

Steering Effort Hard or Too Easy in One or Both Directions (NJ1)

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