C0699 - DTC C0699 - Steering Angle Sensor Malfunction in Common GM Models

Quick Answer

C0699 means: C0699 refers to a malfunction in the steering angle sensor, affecting steering control and vehicle stability.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $400 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with C0699? Immediate attention is recommended to ensure safe driving conditions.

Common Questions

What does C0699 mean and how does it affect my car?

C0699 indicates a malfunction in your vehicle's steering angle sensor, which can lead to poor steering response and compromised vehicle stability. If the sensor fails, it may cause the check engine light to illuminate and can affect your ability to steer accurately, especially during turns.

What are the most common causes of C0699 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of C0699 include a faulty steering angle sensor (60% likelihood), damaged wiring, and calibration issues. Repair costs can range from $150 for a sensor replacement to $50 for a wiring fix.

Can I drive my car with C0699 or should I stop immediately?

While you may be able to drive with C0699, it is not advisable as it can lead to erratic steering and loss of control. It's best to get it diagnosed and repaired promptly to ensure safety.

How can I diagnose C0699 myself using GeekOBD APP?

With the GeekOBD APP, you can perform an OBD2 scan to read the C0699 code and any other related codes. The app will also provide freeze frame data, helping you understand the conditions under which the fault occurred.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0699?

C0699 is frequently reported in 2010-2019 GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Malibu, GMC Terrain, and Buick Enclave. Some models may also have recalls associated with steering systems.

How can I prevent C0699 from happening again?

To prevent C0699, ensure regular maintenance of your vehicle's steering system, including checking for loose connections and performing calibrations after repairs. Keeping the system clean and free of contaminants can also help.

What is C0699?

The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0699 indicates a malfunction related to the steering angle sensor, commonly found in various General Motors (GM) vehicles, including models like the Chevrolet Malibu, GMC Terrain, and Buick Enclave from the years 2010 to 2019. The steering angle sensor is a critical component in the vehicle's steering system, as it measures the angle of the steering wheel and sends this data to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU). When the ECU detects an anomaly or failure in the sensor's performance, it triggers the C0699 code. This malfunction can lead to issues such as inaccurate steering feed-back, impaired stability control, and potentially hazardous driving conditions due to the loss of power assist feature. Common symptoms include the illumination of the check engine light, erratic steering behavior, and reduced responsiveness during turns. If left unaddressed, this can escalate into more severe steering system failures, compromising safety and handling. Owners should promptly seek diagnostic services to understand the exact nature of the malfunction, as ignoring the issue could lead to costly repairs down the line.

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

Symptoms

Common symptoms when C0699 is present:

The check engine light illuminates and stays on, indicating a system fault that needs attention.
Steering feels loose or unresponsive, particularly during sharp turns or lane changes, leading to a lack of control.
You may experience a sudden loss of power steering assistance, making it difficult to steer at lower speeds.
Inconsistent steering feedback, where the steering wheel does not return to the center after making a turn.
The vehicle's traction control system may engage unexpectedly, leading to reduced acceleration in slippery conditions.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of C0699 (ordered by frequency):

{'cause': 'Faulty steering angle sensor', 'likelihood': '60%', 'details': 'The most common cause of the C0699 code is a malfunctioning steering angle sensor itself, which can fail due to wear and tear over time or exposure to moisture.'}
{'cause': 'Damaged wiring or connectors', 'details': 'Corroded or damaged wiring and connectors can disrupt the signal sent from the steering angle sensor to the ECU, leading to code C0699.'}
{'cause': 'Calibration issues', 'details': 'Improper calibration after repairs or replacement of the steering angle sensor can trigger this code. Regular checks during maintenance can help prevent this.'}
{'cause': 'Faulty ECU', 'details': 'A malfunctioning ECU can misinterpret sensor signals, potentially leading to a C0699 code, although this is less common.'}
{'cause': 'Physical obstruction', 'details': 'In rare cases, physical obstructions in the steering mechanism can cause incorrect readings from the sensor.'}

C0699 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Steering Angle Sensor Replacement

Replacing the faulty steering angle sensor, including labor costs.

Total: $150 - $400
Success rate: 85%

Wiring Repair

Repairing damaged wiring or connectors related to the steering angle sensor.

Total: $50 - $150
Success rate: 90%

Money-Saving Tips for C0699

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 C0699 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0699. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Start with an initial visual inspection to check for any obvious signs of damage to the wiring, connectors, or the steering angle sensor itself

Step 1: Start with an initial visual inspection to check for any obvious signs of damage to the wiring, connectors, or the steering angle sensor itself. This should take about 5-10 minutes.