AutoCodes – Generic – C1170

C1170 Code - Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Variation

Quick Answer

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is an active safety system which improves vehicle stability in all driving situations. Common causes include Re-Initialize Steering Angle Sensor. 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
C1170 indicates Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Variation.
Common causes
Common causes include Re-Initialize Steering Angle Sensor.
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 40,992
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 19, 2020
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Code C1170 Description

The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is an active safety system which improves vehicle stability in all driving situations.
It operates by actuating the brakes individually on one or more wheels on the front or rear axle. ESP stabilizes the vehicle when cornering, when braking or when coasting without power and holds it reliably in track.
ESP complements the familiar functions of the anti-lock brake system (ABS), acceleration slip regulation (ASR) and engine braking regulation (EBR).
The stability regulation function is superordinate to the ABS and ASR control systems. As well as actively intervening with the brakes, ESP also has an influence on engine/transmission management.
The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) includes the following system interplay:
ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during braking and thus maintains the steerability and directional control of the vehicle during deceleration.
ASR prevents the drive wheels from spinning while driving. It also improves directional control with better traction across the entire speed range.
EBR reduces brake slip at the drive wheels during deceleration and ensures directional control.
ESP prevents the vehicle from breaking away when it is oversteered or understeered. In all situations, it ensures that the vehicle does not deviate from the course specified by the driver (within the bounds of physical limits). Brake forces are produced selectively at the individual wheels to correct this.
OBDII Code C1170 - Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Variation - AutoCodes.com
C1170 Code - Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Variation

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1170?

  • Re-Initialize Steering Angle Sensor

How to Fix the DTC C1170?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the C1170 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.

Need more information about the C1170 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C1170 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1170 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

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 C1170 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1170 (Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Variation)?

The common symptoms include the traction control light or ABS warning light coming on, erratic steering behavior, and potential loss of stability control.

2. What can cause the OBDII code C1170 to trigger?

The code C1170 is typically triggered by a misalignment or calibration issue with the steering angle sensor, often due to improper installation or a faulty sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the root cause of OBDII code C1170?

To diagnose the issue, you can use a diagnostic scan tool to read the code and check the alignment and calibration of the steering angle sensor. Ensuring the sensor is securely mounted and properly calibrated is crucial.

4. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code C1170 triggered?

It is not recommended to drive with the code triggered, as it can affect the proper functioning of the vehicle's stability control system, potentially compromising safety.

5. Can I reset OBDII code C1170 myself?

While you can clear the code using a diagnostic scan tool, it's essential to address the root cause of the issue to prevent the code from reoccurring.

6. What are the repair options for OBDII code C1170?

Repair options include realigning or recalibrating the steering angle sensor, replacing a faulty sensor, or seeking professional assistance to diagnose and fix the issue.

7. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code C1170?

The cost of fixing the code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, whether it requires sensor realignment, calibration, or replacement. It's advisable to get a diagnosis and quote from a qualified mechanic.

8. Can extreme weather conditions affect OBDII code C1170?

Extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can potentially impact the calibration and functioning of the steering angle sensor, leading to the triggering of code C1170.

9. Are there any preventative maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code C1170?

Regularly checking the alignment and calibration of the steering angle sensor, especially after any maintenance work or component replacements, can help prevent issues that trigger code C1170.

10. How important is it to address OBDII code C1170 promptly?

Promptly addressing OBDII code C1170 is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle's stability control system and maintain optimal safety while driving.

Discuss the causes and fixes for C1170 OBDII Code

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