AutoCodes – Chevrolet – C1288 Chevrolet

C1288 Chevrolet Code - Steering Sensor Circuit 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: C1288 Chevrolet indicates Steering Sensor Circuit 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 2,045

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 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1288 Chevrolet 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 C1288 Chevrolet - Steering Sensor Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com — C1288 Chevrolet Code - Steering Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1288 Chevrolet?

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 C1288 Chevrolet?

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 C1288 Chevrolet 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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Need more information on how to fix the C1288 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 C1288 Chevrolet Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet) - Steering Sensor Circuit Malfunction?

Common symptoms include the "Service StabiliTrak" message appearing on the dashboard, illuminated ABS light, and potential loss of power steering assistance.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet)?

Possible causes of this code include a faulty steering angle sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the steering sensor circuit, or issues with the electronic stability control system.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet)?

Diagnosing the issue involves using a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the specific trouble codes, checking the wiring and connectors for any damage, and testing the steering angle sensor for proper functionality.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet) - Steering Sensor Circuit Malfunction?

It is not recommended to continue driving with this code present, as it can affect the vehicle's stability control system and potentially lead to unsafe driving conditions.

5. How can I reset OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet)?

Resetting the code involves using a diagnostic scanner to clear the trouble codes after the underlying issue has been diagnosed and fixed.

6. Is it safe to repair OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet) - Steering Sensor Circuit Malfunction myself?

While some basic checks like inspecting wiring and connectors can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing the steering sensor circuit malfunction may require specialized tools and expertise, so it's advisable to consult a professional technician.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet)?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may involve replacing the steering angle sensor, repairing damaged wiring, or addressing other related components. Costs can range from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.

8. Can a low car battery cause OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet) to appear?

A low car battery can potentially trigger various electrical issues, including the steering sensor circuit malfunction. Ensuring the battery is in good condition is a good practice when troubleshooting this code.

9. Will OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet) affect the vehicle's drivability?

While the vehicle may still be driveable with this code present, it is not recommended as it can impact the stability control system and overall handling of the vehicle.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code C1288 (Chevrolet)?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the availability of parts. In general, it may take a few hours to a full day to diagnose and repair the steering sensor circuit malfunction.