C0287 code meaning
Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor Circuit
What C0287 means
The publicly available J2012 lists do not contain C0287, and no maker uses it for an ESP Performance fault. In later GM brake systems the number belongs to the longitudinal acceleration sensor: the Saab 9-5 of 2010 and 2011 and the 2011 Saab 9-4X file it under the multi-axis sensor that also delivers lateral acceleration and yaw rate over CAN. It sets when that signal is missing, disagrees with the speed change of the car or has an offset outside its window; subcode 4B marks a calibration never learned, 71 invalid data. Only hill start assist is switched off. GM bulletins PI1525 (2014–15 Regal, Malibu, Sonic) and PIT5427 (2010–15 Equinox and Terrain, corroded connector X411) list it with C0186 and C0196. Older GM tables used the number otherwise.
C0287 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairAfter a drive cycle
Symptoms of C0287
- Hill start assist not available
- Stability control or airbag warning lamp on when stored together with C0186 or C0196
Common causes of C0287
- Most likelyMulti-axis sensor replaced or disturbed without setup and yaw sensor learn
- PossibleCorroded or loose connector in the sensor supply or CAN lines
- PossibleFaulty multi-axis sensor or outdated software in the module hosting it
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Longitudinal accel sensorMulti axis accel sensorBrake control module
What each part of C0287 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 87 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0287 and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about C0287
What does C0287 mean?
C0287 means "Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor Circuit". The publicly available J2012 lists do not contain C0287, and no maker uses it for an ESP Performance fault. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0287?
C0287 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will C0287 fail an emissions test?
C0287 is not an emissions code, so on its own it usually does not fail an emissions test. Other stored codes or a lit check engine light still can.
How hard is C0287 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0287 clear itself after the repair?
After the repair the car has to complete a drive cycle (a mix of city and highway driving) before the test runs again. Until then the readiness monitor shows "not ready", which can fail an inspection.