Quick Answer
B0673 means: B0673 indicates a problem with the steering wheel position sensor circuit.
Can I drive with B0673? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe vehicle operation.
Common Questions
What does B0673 mean and how does it affect my car?
B0673 signifies a problem with your steering wheel position sensor circuit. This could lead to steering issues and affect safety features. If left unresolved, it may cause handling problems and increased wear on your vehicle's steering components.
What are the most common causes of B0673 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty steering wheel position sensor and damaged wiring. Repair costs can range from $100 to $300 for sensor replacement and $50 to $150 for wiring repairs.
Can I drive my car with B0673 or should I stop immediately?
It is advisable to stop driving your vehicle until the issue is resolved. Safety features may be compromised, and the steering could become less responsive, leading to hazardous driving conditions.
How can I diagnose B0673 myself using GeekOBD APP?
You can use the GeekOBD APP to scan for codes and view freeze frame data. It will help you understand the circumstances under which the B0673 code was triggered, and you can test the steering position sensor directly from the app's diagnostics section.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0673?
This issue is often found in models like the 2013-2016 Honda Accord and the 2014-2017 Toyota Camry. Always check for any recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to your vehicle.
How can I prevent B0673 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including inspections of the steering system and wiring, can help prevent issues. Keeping your vehicle clean and dry, especially in the steering column area, can also help minimize damage.
What is B0673?
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) B0673 indicates a malfunction in the steering wheel position sensor circuit, particularly its range or performance. This sensor is crucial for steering angle detection, which is integral to various vehicle functions, including stability control, traction control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). When this code is triggered, it means that the vehicle's onboard computer has detected that the input from the steering wheel position sensor is outside of the expected range. This could lead to issues such as erratic steering behavior, compromised safety features, and potentially increased wear on steering components. For example, common vehicles impacted by this code include the 2013-2016 Honda Accord and the 2014-2017 Toyota Camry. Drivers may experience symptoms like the check engine light illuminating, steering wheel stiffness, or difficulty in steering. Addressing this issue promptly is essential, as ignoring it could lead to more severe problems down the road, including loss of steering control in critical situations.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B0673 is present:
- The check engine light stays on constantly, indicating a persistent issue that needs diagnosis.
- Steering wheel feels unusually stiff or unresponsive, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle safely.
- Increased wear on tires or uneven tire tread patterns due to misalignment caused by sensor issues.
- Unpredictable steering behavior, such as the steering wheel not returning to center after a turn.
- Potential activation of stability control or traction control warning lights, suggesting that safety systems are compromised.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B0673 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause is a faulty steering wheel position sensor, which has a likelihood of about 70%. This sensor may fail due to wear over time or exposure to elements.
- Another potential cause could be damaged wiring or connectors in the steering column, which can lead to poor signal transmission. This has a likelihood of around 20%.
- A third cause may involve issues with the vehicle's power steering system, which can affect sensor performance, especially in older models.
- Less common, but serious, could be a malfunction in the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU), affecting multiple systems, including steering.
- A rare cause may be software glitches or updates needed in the vehicle's firmware that impact the steering sensor readings.
B0673 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Wheel Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the steering wheel position sensor if found defective during testing.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair or Replacement
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors in the steering column.
- Total: $50 - $150
- Success rate: 85%
Money-Saving Tips for B0673
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional B0673 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0673. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the steering wheel position sensor and wiring for continuity and proper voltage (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to test the steering wheel position sensor and wiring for continuity and proper voltage (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the steering system and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the steering system and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure no codes reappear (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and ensure no codes reappear (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Steering Sensor Replacement in a 2015 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2015 Honda Accord, 75,000 miles
Problem: Customer complained of an illuminated check engine light and stiff steering.
Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, B0673 was retrieved. Visual inspection revealed a faulty steering position sensor.
Solution: Replaced the steering wheel position sensor and cleared the codes. Re-tested the system.
Cost: $250 (sensor: $150, labor: $100)
Result: Check engine light turned off and steering returned to normal. Customer reported satisfaction with repair.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on a 2016 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2016 Toyota Camry, 60,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported unresponsive steering and a check engine light.
Diagnosis: GeekOBD APP revealed B0673. Inspection found damaged wiring in the steering column.
Solution: Repaired wiring connections and secured all connectors.
Cost: $120 (wiring repair: $70, labor: $50)
Result: Steering responsiveness improved, and check engine light remained off.