AutoCodesFord – B1C33 Ford

B1C33 Ford Code - Steering Column Tilt Feedback Signal Circuit Short

Quick Answer

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) monitors the position of the adjustable steering column using of Hall-effect type rotation sensors that are integral to the tilt and telescoping motors. Common causes include Faulty Steering Column Tilt Motor, Steering Column Tilt Motor harness is open or shorted, Steering Column Tilt Motor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
B1C33 Ford indicates Steering Column Tilt Feedback Signal Circuit Short.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Steering Column Tilt Motor, Steering Column Tilt Motor harness is open or shorted, Steering Column Tilt Motor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 923
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 26, 2019
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Code B1C33 Ford Description

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) monitors the position of the adjustable steering column using of Hall-effect type rotation sensors that are integral to the tilt and telescoping motors. Both the adjustable steering column tilt motor and telescope motor can be serviced separately from the steering column.
The SCCM sends a reference voltage along the sensor feed circuit through the Hall-effect sensor and back to the SCCM through a shared signal return circuit. The sensors provide a digital signal used by the SCCM to calculate the position of the steering column in relation to the full forward/rearward and full up/down positions. The SCCM uses this signal to store and recall memory positions, to carry out the easy entry/exit operations and to make sure the adjustable steering column tilt and telescope motors do not stall against the steering column end of travel.
If an adjustable steering column tilt or telescope motor sensor Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) sets (or if either of the sensor circuits become open), the SCCM does not recall a programmed memory position or automatically position the steering column during the easy entry/exit operations. The affected steering column motor operates in jog mode. Jog mode allows limited operation of the affected steering column motor using only the steering column control switch. When the steering column control switch is operated in jog mode, the steering column moves in the desired direction for one second, then stops regardless of the length of time the switch is actually activated. The steering column control switch must be released, then activated again in order to move the steering column for an additional second.
OBDII Code B1C33 Ford - Steering Column Tilt Feedback Signal Circuit Short - AutoCodes.com
B1C33 Ford Code - Steering Column Tilt Feedback Signal Circuit Short

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC B1C33 Ford?

  • Faulty Steering Column Tilt Motor
  • Steering Column Tilt Motor harness is open or shorted
  • Steering Column Tilt Motor circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Steering Column Control Module (SCCM)

How to Fix the DTC B1C33 Ford?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the B1C33 Ford code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about B1C33 Ford Code

What does the OBDII code B1C33 mean for Ford vehicles?

B1C33 indicates a problem with the steering column tilt feedback signal circuit, commonly related to a short circuit.

What symptoms might indicate a B1C33 code?

Symptoms can include steering wheel adjustment issues, warning lights on the dashboard, or a malfunctioning tilt steering mechanism.

What could cause the B1C33 code to trigger?

Causes may include damaged wiring, a faulty steering column position sensor, or issues within the steering control module.

How can I diagnose the B1C33 code?

Begin with a visual inspection of wiring and connectors, use a multimeter to test the steering column position sensor, and check for other related trouble codes.

What are common repair steps for the B1C33 code?

Common repairs involve repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the steering column position sensor, or reprogramming the steering control module.

Can low battery voltage affect the B1C33 code?

Yes, low battery voltage can cause erratic signals in the electrical system, potentially leading to false codes, including B1C33.

Is it safe to drive a vehicle with a B1C33 code?

While it may be drivable, it’s advisable to have the issue inspected and repaired promptly to ensure steering functionality and safety.

How can I reset the B1C33 code after repairs?

The code can typically be reset using an OBDII scanner after the necessary repairs have been completed and verified.

Will clearing the B1C33 code resolve the issue?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the warning light, but the underlying problem must be fixed to prevent the code from reappearing.

Discuss the causes and fixes for B1C33 Ford OBDII Code

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