Quick Answer
C0355 means: DTC C0355 indicates a malfunction in the steering position sensor circuit.
Can I drive with C0355? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe driving and vehicle handling.
Common Questions
What does C0355 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC C0355 indicates a malfunction in the steering position sensor circuit. This can lead to problems with steering control, making your vehicle harder to handle. It's important to address this issue quickly to maintain safe driving conditions.
What are the most common causes of C0355 and how much does it cost to fix?
The most common causes of C0355 include a faulty steering position sensor (70% likelihood) and damaged wiring (20% likelihood). Repair costs can range from $150 to $300 for sensor replacement.
Can I drive my car with C0355 or should I stop immediately?
It's advisable to avoid driving your vehicle with a C0355 code active. Steering issues can lead to dangerous situations, especially at high speeds or during sharp turns.
How can I diagnose C0355 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Using the GeekOBD APP, you can scan for DTCs, view freeze frame data, and monitor the steering position sensor's performance. Look for any discrepancies in the data to identify potential issues.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0355?
DTC C0355 is most commonly found in 2006-2015 Chevrolet Malibu models, along with other vehicles equipped with electronic steering systems.
How can I prevent C0355 from happening again?
Regular maintenance checks on your vehicle's electrical systems, ensuring clean connectors, and using quality parts for repairs can help prevent C0355 from recurring.
What is C0355?
DTC C0355 indicates a malfunction in the steering position sensor circuit. This sensor plays a critical role in your vehicle's electronic stability control (ESC) and power steering systems. When this code is triggered, it usually means there is a fault in the wiring, connector, or the sensor itself. This can lead to various issues, such as steering wheel instability or difficulty in maneuvering the vehicle. In practical terms, if your steering sensor isn't functioning properly, it can affect your vehicle’s handling and safety, making it crucial to address this issue promptly. The problem is often seen in vehicles like the Chevrolet Malibu from 2006 to 2015, but it can also affect other models with similar electronic steering systems. Ignoring DTC C0355 can lead to more significant problems, including complete loss of power steering assistance. Therefore, when you see this code, it’s best to get it diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure safe driving.
System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when C0355 is present:
- Check engine light stays on constantly, indicating an issue that needs attention.
- Steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive, making it hard to control the vehicle's direction.
- Inconsistent power steering assistance, which may feel heavy or require more effort to turn.
- Error messages on the dashboard related to power steering or stability control.
- Difficulty in making tight turns, leading to potential safety issues during driving.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of C0355 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty steering position sensor (70% likelihood) - This is the most common issue, where the sensor fails to send accurate signals to the vehicle's ECU.
- Damaged wiring or connectors (20% likelihood) - Physical damage to the wiring harness or connectors can disrupt the signal flow.
- Low power steering fluid (5% likelihood) - While less common, low fluid levels can sometimes trigger sensor-related codes.
- ECU malfunction (3% likelihood) - A rare scenario where the vehicle’s computer is not interpreting the sensor data correctly.
- Corrosion or dirt in the connector (2% likelihood) - Environmental factors can affect the connectivity and signal transmission.
C0355 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Position Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty steering position sensor with a new unit.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for C0355
- 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 C0355 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0355. 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 or specific diagnostic tools to test the steering position sensor (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the steering position sensor (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation after repairs and clear codes (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success (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 Position Sensor Replacement on 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle: 2010 Chevrolet Malibu, 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported a constant check engine light and unresponsive steering.
Diagnosis: Diagnostic scan revealed DTC C0355. Visual inspection showed a damaged steering position sensor.
Solution: Replaced the faulty steering position sensor with a new OEM part.
Cost: $250 (parts: $150, labor: $100)
Result: After the repair, the check engine light was cleared, and the steering responsiveness improved significantly.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
Vehicle: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, 60,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced erratic steering and warning lights on the dashboard.
Diagnosis: OBD2 scan confirmed C0355; inspection revealed damaged wiring in the steering column.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and reseated connectors to ensure proper function.
Cost: $180 (parts: $30, labor: $150)
Result: The steering performance returned to normal and the codes were cleared successfully.