AutoCodes – Generic – C0220

C0220 Code - Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) is activated when the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) determines that the desired yaw rate does not match the actual yaw rate. Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) 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: C0220 indicates Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness is open or shorted, Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) 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 2,366

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 C0220 Description

The Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) is activated when the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) determines that the desired yaw rate does not match the actual yaw rate. The desired yaw rate is calculated from the measured steering wheel position, vehicle speed, and lateral acceleration. With no sensor bias present, a volt signal from these sensors is interpreted by the EBCM respectively as follows:
- Zero yaw rate.
- Zero lateral acceleration.
- Zero longitudinal acceleration.
The sensor bias compensates, during VSES initialization, for sensor mounting alignment errors, electronic signal errors, temperature changes, and manufacturing differences.

OBDII Code C0220 - Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage - AutoCodes.com — C0220 Code - Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC C0220?

Faulty Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM)
Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) harness is open or shorted
Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC C0220?

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 C0220 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 C0220 code?

Need more information on how to fix the C0220 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the C0220 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

C0220 Buick — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage
C0220 Cadillac — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage
C0220 Chevrolet — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage
C0220 GMC — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage
C0220 Pontiac — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage
C0220 Saturn — Longitudinal Accelerometer Signal Voltage

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 C0220 Code

1. What does OBDII code C0220 mean?

C0220 indicates an issue with the longitudinal accelerometer signal voltage, which is critical for systems like ABS or stability control to function properly.

2. What are the symptoms of code C0220?

Common symptoms include the ABS or traction control warning light illuminating, reduced stability control functionality, and potentially longer braking distances.

3. What causes code C0220 to appear?

Possible causes include a faulty longitudinal accelerometer, damaged wiring or connectors, or a malfunctioning ABS control module.

4. How do I diagnose a C0220 code?

Start by scanning for additional codes, inspecting the accelerometer wiring and connectors for damage, and testing the sensorâ€™s output voltage using a multimeter.

5. Can a dirty sensor cause C0220?

Yes, dirt or debris on the longitudinal accelerometer or its connectors can interfere with the signal voltage and trigger this code.

6. How do I fix code C0220?

Repairs may include replacing the longitudinal accelerometer, cleaning or repairing wiring and connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the ABS control module if necessary.

7. Is it safe to drive with a C0220 code?

Driving with a C0220 code may be unsafe, as it can impact your vehicle's ABS and stability control systems, reducing braking and handling performance.

8. Where is the longitudinal accelerometer located?

The longitudinal accelerometer is typically located near the center of the vehicle, often under the center console or near the floorboard.

9. Can a weak battery cause code C0220?

A weak or failing battery can indirectly cause this code by leading to low voltage issues that affect the accelerometer or ABS system.

10. Do I need a professional mechanic to fix code C0220?

While basic checks like inspecting wiring can be done at home, diagnosing and replacing the accelerometer or reprogramming the ABS module often requires professional tools and expertise.