AutoCodes – Generic – C1601

C1601 Code - Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply

Quick Answer

The Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Unit receives power from the battery and then provides power to the EPS DC/DC converter and EPS motor control circuit. Common causes include Faulty Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Unit, EPS Control Unit harness is open or shorted, EPS Control Unit 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
C1601 indicates Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Unit, EPS Control Unit harness is open or shorted, EPS Control Unit 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.
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Code Popularity 8,460
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Nov 07, 2020
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Code C1601 Description

The Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Unit receives power from the battery and then provides power to the EPS DC/DC converter and EPS motor control circuit. (Or EPS Control Unit receives power for EPS DC/DC converter and EPS motor control circuit from the battery.) The EPS Control Unit sets the ODBII code when the power supply malfunction supplied to EPS control unit is detected.
OBDII Code C1601 - Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply - AutoCodes.com
C1601 Code - Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1601?

  • Faulty Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Unit
  • EPS Control Unit harness is open or shorted
  • EPS Control Unit circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C1601?

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 C1601 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 C1601 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C1601 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1601 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 C1601 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- Common symptoms include loss of power steering assistance, illuminated power steering warning light on the dashboard, and difficulty steering the vehicle.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- The code C1601 can be triggered by issues such as a weak or failing battery, faulty power steering control module, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning electric power steering motor.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- Diagnosis typically involves checking the battery voltage levels, inspecting the power steering control module and motor for any visible damage, and testing the electrical connections for proper continuity.

4. Can a weak car battery cause OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- Yes, a weak or failing car battery can lead to insufficient power supply to the electric power steering system, triggering the C1601 code.

5. How can I repair OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- Repair options may include replacing the car battery if it is weak, repairing or replacing the power steering control module, fixing damaged wiring, or replacing the electric power steering motor.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with the C1601 code as it can affect the vehicle's steering performance and compromise safety. It is best to address the issue promptly.

7. Can I reset OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply with a diagnostic tool?

- Resetting the code with a diagnostic tool may temporarily clear the code, but it will reappear if the underlying issue causing the code is not resolved.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- The cost of repairs for the C1601 code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

9. Are there any preventive maintenance tips to avoid OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- Regularly checking the car battery's health, ensuring proper electrical connections, and addressing any power steering system issues promptly can help prevent the occurrence of the C1601 code.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code C1601 Electric Power Steering Battery Power Supply?

- While some basic diagnostics and repairs can be done by DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing and repairing complex electrical issues related to the power steering system may require professional expertise and specialized tools.

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