C1278 Mercury Code - Steering Wheel Angle 1 And 2 Signal Faulted
Quick Answer
The steering wheel rotation (in degrees) is sent to the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor 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
- C1278 Mercury indicates Steering Wheel Angle 1 And 2 Signal Faulted.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor 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.
Code C1278 Mercury Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1278 Mercury?
- Faulty Steering Wheel Angle Sensor
- Steering Wheel Angle Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Steering Wheel Angle Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC C1278 Mercury?
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 C1278 Mercury 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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Frequently Asked Questions about C1278 Mercury Code
What does the OBDII code C1278 signify?
The OBDII code C1278 indicates a fault in the steering wheel angle sensor signals, specifically that the signals from both angle sensors (1 and 2) are not aligning or communicating properly.
What symptoms might I experience with code C1278?
Common symptoms include an illuminated check engine light, erratic steering behavior, difficulty with electronic stability control, and potential issues with traction control systems.
What causes the C1278 code to trigger?
The code can be triggered by faulty steering wheel angle sensors, poor electrical connections, damaged wiring, or issues with the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM).
How can I diagnose the C1278 code?
To diagnose the C1278 code, use an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspect the steering wheel angle sensors and wiring for damage, and check for loose or corroded connections.
What are some common repairs for code C1278?
Common repairs include replacing faulty steering wheel angle sensors, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, and ensuring proper calibration of the sensors after replacement.
Can I drive my vehicle with code C1278?
While it's possible to drive with this code, it is not recommended as it can affect vehicle handling and stability, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions.
Is there any preventive maintenance to avoid C1278?
Regular inspections of the steering system, checking electrical connections, and ensuring proper calibration of sensors during any steering or suspension work can help prevent this issue.
How do I reset the C1278 code after repairs?
To reset the C1278 code, clear the code using an OBDII scanner after making the necessary repairs, and then take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the issue does not reoccur.
Will code C1278 affect my vehicle's performance?
Yes, code C1278 can impact the performance of vehicle stability and traction control systems, potentially leading to compromised handling and safety while driving.
Discuss the causes and fixes for C1278 Mercury OBDII Code
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