Quick Answer
B068A means: B068A indicates a malfunction in the steering wheel position sensor circuit.
Can I drive with B068A? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure vehicle safety.
Common Questions
What does B068A mean and how does it affect my car?
The B068A code indicates a malfunction in the steering wheel position sensor circuit. This can lead to erratic steering behavior, making it difficult to control your vehicle. If you experience issues like difficulty steering or warning lights, it's essential to address this code promptly to maintain safe driving conditions.
What are the most common causes of B068A and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty steering wheel position sensor, damaged wiring, or software glitches in the control module. Repair costs can range from $50 for minor updates to $300 for sensor replacement, depending on the issue.
Can I drive my car with B068A or should I stop immediately?
It is not advisable to drive your vehicle with a B068A code due to the potential for compromised steering control. You should seek immediate inspection to prevent accidents.
How can I diagnose B068A myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for error codes, view freeze frame data, and monitor real-time sensor readings. This will help you understand the context of the B068A code and determine if further action is required.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by B068A?
The B068A code is often found in Ford and Lincoln vehicles, particularly models like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and Lincoln MKX. Known issues may be documented in recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).
How can I prevent B068A from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including visual inspections of wiring and connectors, can help prevent issues with the steering system. Also, ensure your vehicle's software is up-to-date through your dealership.
What is B068A?
The diagnostic trouble code B068A pertains primarily to the steering wheel position sensor malfunction in certain Ford and Lincoln vehicles. This code indicates that the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue with the circuit related to the steering wheel module or its sensors. When this sensor is not functioning correctly, it can lead to a range of problems, including erratic steering behavior, difficulty in steering response, or even the activation of safety features like electronic stability control. This issue is particularly common in models like the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and Lincoln MKX, where the steering system is closely monitored for performance and safety. If left unaddressed, a B068A code can lead to further complications, including increased wear on steering components or failure of safety systems designed to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle. For car owners, recognizing the signs of this trouble code and understanding its implications can be crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance.
System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when B068A is present:
- The check engine light illuminates, signaling a potential issue with the steering system.
- Steering feels unusually loose or tight, creating difficulty in maneuvering the vehicle.
- The vehicle may exhibit unintended steering movements, particularly when driving straight.
- Electronic stability control warning lights may activate intermittently.
- Inconsistent responses in steering feedback can occur during sharp turns or rapid maneuvers.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of B068A (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of the B068A code is a faulty steering wheel position sensor, which occurs in about 60% of cases. This sensor can malfunction due to wear and tear or electrical issues.
- A second potential cause is damaged wiring or connectors within the steering column, which may lead to intermittent signal loss, requiring inspection and repair.
- Thirdly, software glitches in the vehicle's control module can also trigger this code. Regular updates from the dealership can help prevent these issues.
- Less common causes include steering column replacement or alignment issues that affect sensor readings, which can be quite serious if not resolved.
- A rare but possible cause involves complete failure of the steering control module, which can be costly and complicated to replace.
B068A Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Wheel Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty steering wheel position sensor with an OEM part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the steering column.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 75%
Control Module Update
Updating the steering control module software to resolve potential glitches.
- Total: $50 - $100
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for B068A
- 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 B068A Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B068A. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Conduct a visual inspection of the steering column, checking for damaged wires, loose connectors, or signs of wear (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Conduct a visual inspection of the steering column, checking for damaged wires, loose connectors, or signs of wear (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan
Step 2: Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan. Retrieve all codes and examine freeze frame data to provide context for the B068A code (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Test the steering wheel position sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance readings (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Test the steering wheel position sensor with a multimeter to check for proper voltage and resistance readings (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: If necessary, perform a system function test to verify that all components are operating correctly after any repairs (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: If necessary, perform a system function test to verify that all components are operating correctly after any repairs (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Conduct a road test to ensure the vehicle responds appropriately under various driving conditions and that the code does not reoccur (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Conduct a road test to ensure the vehicle responds appropriately under various driving conditions and that the code does not reoccur (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 on 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported the check engine light and loose steering.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan showed B068A code. Visual inspection revealed a faulty steering wheel position sensor.
Solution: Replaced the steering wheel position sensor and updated the control module software.
Cost: $275 (sensor $200, labor $75)
Result: Steering response improved significantly, and the check engine light was cleared.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2016 Lincoln MKX
Vehicle: 2016 Lincoln MKX, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced erratic steering and stability control warnings.
Diagnosis: B068A code confirmed; visual inspection found damaged wiring near the steering column.
Solution: Repaired the wiring and secured all connections.
Cost: $150 (labor $100, parts $50)
Result: Steering issues resolved, no fault codes present after testing.