AutoCodes – Generic – C1900

C1900 Code - Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground

Quick Answer

The Air Suspension Module monitors the Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid. Common causes include Faulty Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid, Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid 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: C1900 indicates Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid, Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid harness is open or shorted, Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid 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 13,299

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 Dec 03, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C1900 Description

The Air Suspension Module monitors the Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid. The Air Suspension Module sets the OBDII code when the Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code C1900 - Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground - AutoCodes.com — C1900 Code - Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C1900?

Faulty Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid
Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid harness is open or shorted
Variable-Assist Power Steering (VAPS) Solenoid circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Air Suspension Module

How to Fix the DTC C1900?

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 C1900 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 C1900 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C1900 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C1900 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C1900 Ford — Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground
C1900 Lincoln — Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground
C1900 Mercury — Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground

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 C1900 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C1900 (Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground)?

- Common symptoms include an illuminated Check Engine Light, loss of power steering assist, and possible steering wheel vibration or stiffness.

2. What are the potential causes of OBDII code C1900?

- The code C1900 can be caused by a short to ground in the steering Variable Assist Power Steering (VAPS) circuit, damaged wiring, or a faulty VAPS module.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code C1900 on my vehicle?

- Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble code, inspecting the VAPS wiring for any visible damage, and performing circuit tests to pinpoint the exact location of the short to ground.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code C1900 present?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with code C1900 as it may result in loss of power steering assist, making it difficult to steer the vehicle safely.

5. How can I repair OBDII code C1900 (Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground)?

- Repair typically involves repairing or replacing damaged wiring, repairing the short to ground in the VAPS circuit, or replacing the VAPS module if it is found to be faulty.

6. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code C1900?

- DIY tips include carefully inspecting the VAPS wiring for damage, ensuring proper connections, and using a multimeter to test continuity along the circuit to locate the short to ground.

7. Can a faulty VAPS module cause OBDII code C1900?

- Yes, a faulty VAPS module can cause code C1900 if it is shorted to ground or experiencing internal issues that disrupt the circuit operation.

8. Is OBDII code C1900 specific to certain vehicle makes and models?

- OBDII code C1900 related to Steering VAPS Circuit Loop Short To Ground can be found in various vehicle makes and models equipped with variable assist power steering systems.

9. Will resetting the trouble codes clear OBDII code C1900 permanently?

- Resetting the trouble codes may temporarily clear code C1900, but it is important to diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing the short to ground to prevent the code from reoccurring.

10. How much can I expect to pay for professional repairs for OBDII code C1900?

- Repair costs for OBDII code C1900 can vary depending on the exact cause and labor rates, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for parts and labor at a repair shop.