Quick Answer
C0802 means: C0802 relates to a malfunction in the steering angle sensor or its circuit.
Can I drive with C0802? It's important to diagnose and repair this issue immediately to ensure vehicle safety.
Common Questions
What does C0802 mean and how does it affect my car?
The C0802 code indicates a malfunction in your vehicle's steering angle sensor or stability control system. This can lead to compromised handling, especially in adverse conditions, making your car harder to control and increasing the risk of accidents.
What are the most common causes of C0802 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes include a faulty steering angle sensor (60%), damaged wiring (25%), and software glitches. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $300 for sensor replacement.
Can I drive my car with C0802 or should I stop immediately?
While you can drive with C0802, it is not recommended as it can compromise vehicle stability and safety. It's better to address the issue as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose C0802 myself using GeekOBD APP?
Use the GeekOBD APP to perform an OBD2 scan. Look for the C0802 code and any additional codes. Check freeze frame data to understand when the fault occurred and monitor live data for the steering angle sensor.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0802?
C0802 is commonly found in 2015-2018 Ford F-150, 2016-2019 Chevrolet Silverado, and several other models from various manufacturers. Check for any recalls or technical service bulletins related to your vehicle.
How can I prevent C0802 from happening again?
Regular maintenance is key. Ensure that your vehicle's electronic systems are updated, and inspect wiring and connectors for wear or damage, especially after any accidents.
What is C0802?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C0802 indicates a problem related to the vehicle's steering angle sensor or the stability control system. This code typically arises when the sensor or its circuit is malfunctioning, which can prevent the stability control system from functioning correctly. For many vehicle owners, this may manifest as an illuminated check engine light or stability control warning. In real-world terms, this can affect your vehicle's handling, especially in slippery conditions. The steering angle sensor is crucial for ensuring that your vehicle can maintain proper traction and stability, so if you're experiencing this code, it's essential to address it promptly. Ignoring C0802 could lead to reduced vehicle safety, making your car harder to control in emergency situations or adverse weather conditions. Some common vehicle makes/models experiencing this code include the 2015-2018 Ford F-150 and 2016-2019 Chevrolet Silverado. If you're facing this issue, it's advisable to consult a qualified technician who can perform a thorough diagnosis and repair. This may involve checking for wiring issues, replacing the sensor, or recalibrating the system, depending on the specific cause of the fault.
System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when C0802 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a fault in the stability control system.
- Unusual handling or difficulty in steering, particularly if the vehicle feels unstable during cornering.
- Increased stopping distance or traction loss during wet or slippery conditions, indicative of stability control failure.
- Warning messages on the dashboard related to stability control or traction control systems.
- Potential for the vehicle to enter limp mode, restricting speed and power to prevent further damage.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of C0802 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of C0802 is a faulty steering angle sensor, accounting for approximately 60% of cases. This sensor can wear out over time or become misaligned due to impacts or accidents.
- Another significant cause is damaged wiring or poor connections in the sensor circuit, which can account for about 25% of C0802 occurrences. Corrosion or frayed wires can interrupt signal transmission.
- A third cause could be software glitches in the vehicle's control module, leading to incorrect readings from the sensor. Regular software updates can help prevent this issue.
- Less common but serious causes include issues with the vehicle's Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system, which may require specialized diagnostic tools to identify.
- A rare but possible cause could be a malfunctioning steering column, which might need replacement or recalibration.
C0802 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Steering Angle Sensor Replacement
Replacing the faulty steering angle sensor with a new OEM part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair
Repairing damaged wiring or poor connections in the sensor circuit.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 80%
Control Module Reprogramming
Reprogramming the vehicle's control module if software issues are identified.
- Total: $75 - $150
- Success rate: 75%
Money-Saving Tips for C0802
- 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 C0802 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0802. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 2: 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 3: Step 3
Step 3: Component testing - Use multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test the steering angle sensor and related circuits (20-30 minutes)
Step 4: Step 4
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the steering angle sensor and recalibrate if necessary (10-15 minutes)
Step 5: Step 5
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success and monitor for any returning codes (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 Angle Sensor Replacement on 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer noticed the check engine light was on and experienced handling issues during wet conditions.
Diagnosis: Diagnosed with a faulty steering angle sensor after initial inspection and OBD2 scan revealed C0802.
Solution: Replaced the steering angle sensor with an OEM part and recalibrated the system.
Cost: $250 (parts: $150, labor: $100)
Result: Customer reported improved handling and no further issues with stability.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2016 Chevrolet Silverado
Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Silverado, 60,000 miles
Problem: Check engine light was on and stability control warnings appeared intermittently.
Diagnosis: Found frayed wiring in the steering angle sensor circuit during visual inspection.
Solution: Repaired the damaged wiring and secured all connections.
Cost: $150 (parts: $50, labor: $100)
Result: No more warning lights, and stability control functioned correctly after repairs.