AutoCodes – Buick – C1287 Buick

C1287 Buick Code - Steering Sensor Rate Malfunction

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) is activated by the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) calculating the desired yaw rate and comparing it to the actual yaw rate input. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS), Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) harness is open or shorted. 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: C1287 Buick indicates Steering Sensor Rate Malfunction.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS), Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) harness is open or shorted.
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.

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Code Popularity 4,048

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1287 Buick Description

The Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) is activated by the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) calculating the desired yaw rate and comparing it to the actual yaw rate input. The desired yaw rate is calculated from measured steering wheel position, vehicle speed, and lateral acceleration. The difference between the desired yaw rate and actual yaw rate is the yaw rate error, which is a measurement of oversteer or understeer. If the yaw rate error becomes too large, the EBCM will attempt to correct the vehicle's yaw motion by applying differential braking to the left or right front wheel.
The amount of differential braking applied to the left or right front wheel is based on both the yaw rate error and side slip rate error. The side slip rate error is a function of the lateral acceleration minus the product of the yaw rate and vehicle speed. The yaw rate error and side slip rate error are combined to produce the total delta velocity error. When the delta velocity error becomes too large and the VSES system activates, the drivers steering inputs combined with the differential braking will attempt to bring the delta velocity error toward zero.
The VSES activations generally occur during aggressive driving, in the turns or bumpy roads without much use of the accelerator pedal. When braking during VSES activation, the brake pedal will feel different than the ABS pedal pulsation. The brake pedal pulsates at a higher frequency during VSES activation.

OBDII Code C1287 Buick - Steering Sensor Rate Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — C1287 Buick Code - Steering Sensor Rate Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1287 Buick?

Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS)
Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM)
Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel Position Sensor (SWPS) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C1287 Buick?

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 C1287 Buick 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 C1287 Buick code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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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 C1287 Buick Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code C1287 in a Buick related to steering sensor rate malfunction?

- Common symptoms include the ABS warning light illuminating on the dashboard, issues with the stability control system, and possible steering irregularities.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code C1287 Buick indicating a steering sensor rate malfunction?

- The code can be triggered by a faulty steering angle sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the steering system, or issues with the ABS module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code C1287 in my Buick for a steering sensor rate malfunction?

- Diagnosing the code involves conducting a thorough inspection of the steering angle sensor, checking for any damaged wiring, and performing a scan of the ABS system for related faults.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code C1287 Buick related to steering sensor rate malfunction?

- While some basic inspections like checking for loose connections can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing the root cause of the issue may require professional expertise and specialized tools.

5. Is it safe to drive my Buick with OBDII code C1287 indicating a steering sensor rate malfunction?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code active, as it can affect the proper functioning of the stability control system and compromise driving safety.

6. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C1287 Buick related to a steering sensor rate malfunction?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the underlying issue, but they may involve sensor replacement, wiring repairs, or ABS module reprogramming, potentially ranging from $200 to $800 or more.

7. Can resetting the OBDII system clear the C1287 code for a steering sensor rate malfunction in a Buick?

- Resetting the system may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue persists, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle for a short period.

8. Are there any preventative measures to avoid OBDII code C1287 Buick related to steering sensor rate malfunction?

- Regular maintenance and inspection of the steering system, including the angle sensor and associated components, can help prevent issues leading to the code.

9. How long does it take to repair OBDII code C1287 Buick for a steering sensor rate malfunction?

- The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the issue and the availability of parts, but it typically takes a few hours to a full day to diagnose and fix the problem.

10. Will OBDII code C1287 Buick for a steering sensor rate malfunction affect the vehicle's overall performance?

- While the code may not directly impact the engine performance, it can affect the stability and control systems, potentially compromising the overall driving experience and safety.