C01A6 - Understanding DTC C01A6: A Comprehensive Guide for 2015-2019 Ford F-150 Owners

Quick Answer

C01A6 means: DTC C01A6 indicates a problem with the electronic power steering system, affecting steering assist.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with C01A6? Immediate attention is recommended, as steering issues can compromise safety.

Common Questions

What does C01A6 mean and how does it affect my car?

DTC C01A6 indicates a problem with your vehicle's electronic power steering system. This can lead to reduced steering assist, making it harder to control the vehicle. If you notice warning lights or a stiff steering wheel, it’s crucial to address the issue to maintain safe driving conditions.

What are the most common causes of C01A6 and how much does it cost to fix?

The most common causes of C01A6 include a faulty steering angle sensor, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning EPS motor. Repair costs can vary, with sensor replacement ranging from $150 to $300, while EPS motor replacement can cost between $400 and $700.

Can I drive my car with C01A6 or should I stop immediately?

It is not safe to drive a vehicle with DTC C01A6, as it indicates potential steering failure. Loss of steering assist can compromise your control over the vehicle, making it advisable to stop driving and seek immediate repairs.

How can I diagnose C01A6 myself using GeekOBD APP?

You can use the GeekOBD APP to perform a diagnostic scan of your vehicle. First, connect the OBD2 reader, then open the app and retrieve the DTC codes. Analyze the freeze frame data to understand driving conditions when the code was triggered, and follow the app's guidance for further diagnostics.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by C01A6?

DTC C01A6 is commonly seen in the 2015-2019 Ford F-150 models. Owners of these vehicles should monitor for symptoms and consider having the EPS system checked regularly to avoid potential issues.

How can I prevent C01A6 from happening again?

Regular maintenance is key to preventing DTC C01A6. Ensure that your vehicle's EPS system is inspected during routine service checks. Keep an eye on the steering system for any signs of wear, and address any warning lights immediately to avoid more significant issues.

What is C01A6?

DTC C01A6 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates an issue related to the vehicle's steering system, specifically the electronic power steering (EPS) module. This code is typically triggered when the EPS module detects a fault in its operation, which can affect the overall steering performance of your vehicle. For owners of the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, this could mean experiencing unexpected steering assist loss, making the vehicle harder to control. Common scenarios that can lead to this code include faults in the steering angle sensor, wiring issues, or problems with the EPS motor itself. If the EPS system is malfunctioning, drivers may notice symptoms such as a stiff steering wheel, difficulty in making turns, or the illumination of warning lights on the dashboard. Ignoring this code may lead to more severe steering issues, decreased vehicle safety, and increased repair costs. It’s crucial to address DTC C01A6 promptly to ensure safe driving conditions and maintain the vehicle’s performance.

System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when C01A6 is present:

  • Check engine light illuminates or EPS warning light is on, signaling a possible steering system failure.
  • Steering wheel feels extremely stiff or unresponsive, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle, especially during low-speed turns.
  • Unusual noises coming from the steering column, such as grinding or whining, indicating potential mechanical issues.
  • Loss of steering assist intermittently, which may happen without warning during driving, posing serious safety risks.
  • Increased effort required to turn the steering wheel, leading to fatigue during long drives or in heavy traffic.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of C01A6 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of DTC C01A6 is a faulty steering angle sensor, which has a likelihood of about 40%. This sensor helps the EPS module understand the position of the steering wheel and can malfunction due to wear and tear or electrical issues.
  2. Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the EPS system. This can account for approximately 30% of cases, where frayed wires or poor connections disrupt the signal sent to the EPS module.
  3. A malfunctioning EPS motor can lead to this code as well, especially if it has been subjected to moisture or physical damage. Preventive maintenance can help avoid these issues through regular inspections.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a failing EPS control module, which can lead to complete steering failure. This is less frequent but critical to address immediately.
  5. A rare cause might involve software glitches within the EPS system, which could potentially be resolved through a system reflash at the dealership.

C01A6 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Steering Angle Sensor Replacement

Replacing a faulty steering angle sensor that is causing the C01A6 code.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Repair

Repairing damaged wiring or connectors in the EPS system.

  • Total: $100 - $250
  • Success rate: 75%
EPS Motor Replacement

Replacing the entire EPS motor if it is found to be defective.

  • Total: $400 - $700
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for C01A6
  • 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 C01A6 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C01A6. 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 on the EPS components (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion on the EPS components (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and gather clues on the issue (10-15 minutes)

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context and gather clues on the issue (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components like the steering angle sensor (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components like the steering angle sensor (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the EPS after repairs and clear the DTC from the system (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the EPS after repairs and clear the DTC from the system (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the steering assist is functioning correctly and that the code does not return (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the steering assist is functioning correctly and that the code does not return (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

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 Angle Sensor Replacement on 2017 Ford F-150

Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer complained of a stiff steering wheel and EPS warning light.

Diagnosis: Performed a visual inspection and OBD2 scan, confirming C01A6. The steering angle sensor was found to be faulty.

Solution: Replaced the steering angle sensor and cleared the DTC. Conducted a road test to confirm repair success.

Cost: $200 (sensor + labor)

Result: Customer reported normal steering operation and no warning lights after the repair.

Case Study 2: Wiring Repair for 2018 Ford F-150

Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 30,000 miles

Problem: Steering assist failure during driving, with intermittent EPS warning light.

Diagnosis: Checked wiring and connectors in the EPS system, discovering a damaged wire.

Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and verified the system functionality.

Cost: $150 (wiring repair + labor)

Result: Steering assist returned to normal, and the warning light was resolved.

Diagnose C01A6

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

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  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: C01A6
System: Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Chassis Codes