Service Information

Volt

DTC C0176

Diagnostic Instructions

•	Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

•	Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.

•	Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0176 54: Control Module Temperature Sensor High Temperature

The power steering control module monitors the temperature of the Power Steering System. The power steering control module uses voltage, current levels and input from an internal temperature sensor to calculate an estimated system temperature. If the power steering control module detects a high system temperature event is occurring, the amount of assist is decreased to reduce system temperature, in effort to prevent thermal damage to the power steering components.

Conditions for Running the DTC

•	Vehicle ON.

•	Power steering system voltage is 9-16 volts.

•	Repetitive steering input applied.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The power steering control module detects a high system temperature.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

•	DTC C0176 54 is stored in memory.

•	Steering assist is reduced.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

•	A current DTC will clear on the next malfunction free ignition cycle.

•	A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive malfunction free ignition cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

•

DTC C0176 54 does not indicate that a malfunction has occurred. Rather that the power steering control module had to limit current to the power steering motor to avoid thermal damage to the power steering system components. Discuss with the customer about driving conditions when the steering assist was reduced.

•	Ensure that no steering components down stream of the power steering column assembly, such as ball joints, track rod ends, universal joints, or the steering gear assembly, are mechanically binding.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Power Steering Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Power Steering System Description and Operation : Electronic Power Steering

Electrical Information Reference

•	Circuit Testing

•	Connector Repairs

•	Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

•	Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Verify that the DTC sets outside of the conditions for running and setting. Since most occurrences of this DTC are caused by excessive driver inputs, review with the customer the conditions under which the DTC set.

⇒	If the DTC set within the normal conditions for running and setting, the power steering is operating as designed.

Operate the vehicle within the conditions that the customer experienced, avoiding excessive inputs, and verify the DTC does not reset.

⇒	If the DTC resets, replace the K43 Power Steering Control Module.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

•	Steering Gear Replacement

•	Power Steering Assist Motor Replacement for power steering control module replacement

•	Control Module References for power steering control module programming and setup