AutoCodes – Generic – C0208

C0208 Code - Steering Wheel Position Sensor

Quick Answer

The steering wheel position sensor produces 2 separate voltage signals to indicate steering wheel position to the Real Time Damping (RTD) module. Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor, Steering Wheel Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Position 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: C0208 indicates Steering Wheel Position Sensor.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor, Steering Wheel Position Sensor harness is open or shorted, Steering Wheel Position 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.

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Code Popularity 1,474

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 May 09, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code C0208 Description

The steering wheel position sensor produces 2 separate voltage signals to indicate steering wheel position to the Real Time Damping (RTD) module. The RTD module converts each signal into a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) signal to indicate steering wheel position to the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM). The EBCM supplies 5 volts to the RTD module on each steering wheel position PWM serial data circuit. The RTD module toggles each of these voltages to ground in order to create the PWM signals. Each PWM signal must have a frequency of 121-134 Hz and a duty cycle of 9-91 percent in order to be a valid steering wheel position signal. With each 360 degree rotation of the steering wheel, each signal transitions from the minimum duty cycle to the maximum duty cycle and then back to the minimum duty cycle. The steering wheel position signals are spaced 90 degrees apart. Therefore, the duty cycles of the 2 signals usually differ, depending on steering wheel position.

OBDII Code C0208 - Steering Wheel Position Sensor - AutoCodes.com — C0208 Code - Steering Wheel Position Sensor

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0208?

Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor
Steering Wheel Position Sensor harness is open or shorted
Steering Wheel Position Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C0208?

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 C0208 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 C0208 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0208 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0208 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C0208 Buick — Steering Wheel Position Sensor
C0208 Cadillac — Steering Wheel Position Sensor
C0208 Chevrolet — Steering Wheel Position Sensor
C0208 GMC — Steering Wheel Position Sensor
C0208 Pontiac — Steering Wheel Position Sensor
C0208 Saturn — Steering Wheel Position Sensor

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 C0208 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code C0208 related to the Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

- Common symptoms include issues with the vehicle's stability control system, traction control system, and potentially the steering system itself.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code C0208 related to the Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

- Possible causes include a faulty steering wheel position sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, or a malfunction in the stability control system.

3. How can I diagnose the Steering Wheel Position Sensor issue causing OBDII code C0208?

- Diagnosing the issue involves using a diagnostic scanner to read the code, checking the sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, and potentially testing the sensor's functionality.

4. Can a DIY enthusiast repair OBDII code C0208 related to the Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

- Repairing this issue often requires specialized tools and knowledge, so it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

5. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code C0208 triggered by the Steering Wheel Position Sensor issue?

- It is not recommended to drive with this code triggered, as it can affect the vehicle's stability and traction control systems, potentially compromising safety.

6. Are there any temporary fixes or resets for OBDII code C0208 related to the Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

- Temporary fixes like clearing the code with a diagnostic scanner may temporarily reset the warning light, but the underlying issue will still need to be addressed for a permanent solution.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code C0208 caused by the Steering Wheel Position Sensor issue?

- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but they may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Can a Steering Wheel Position Sensor calibration fix OBDII code C0208?

- In some cases, recalibrating the steering wheel position sensor may resolve the issue triggering OBDII code C0208, but it is best to consult a professional for proper diagnosis and calibration.

9. What other codes or issues may be related to OBDII code C0208 and the Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

- Other related codes may include steering angle sensor codes or stability control system codes, as they all work together to ensure proper vehicle handling and safety.

10. How long does it take to repair the Steering Wheel Position Sensor issue causing OBDII code C0208?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the availability of parts, but it may take a few hours to a full day for a mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.