C0440 code meaning
Steering Wheel Position Sensor Circuit
What C0440 means
C0440 cannot be verified publicly; searches of the available J2012 tables, GM bulletin PIP5094 and the full NHTSA index found no hit. Its title is word for word that of C0455, which GM does use for the steering wheel position sensor read by the brake module; the description here sticks to the sensor. It sits on the steering column and gives stability control the driver's intended direction. Bosch builds it with two measuring gears of different tooth counts, so the absolute angle is known over several turns, and sends angle and rate over CAN with internal plausibility checks. Saab's 9-5 sensor uses gears with 28 and 26 teeth and needs a zero calibration after front end work. GM bulletin PI0639D traces C0455 on 2007–17 trucks and vans to fretting corrosion at the connector.
C0440 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.3 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0440
- Stability control and traction control warning lamps on
- Service StabiliTrak or ESP message
Common causes of C0440
- Most likelyFretting corrosion or loose fit at the sensor connector
- PossibleZero position not calibrated after alignment or column work
- Less likelySteering angle sensor internally defective
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Steering angle sensorClock springABS control module
What each part of C0440 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 40 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0440 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 C0440
What does C0440 mean?
C0440 means "Steering Wheel Position Sensor Circuit". C0440 cannot be verified publicly; searches of the available J2012 tables, GM bulletin PIP5094 and the full NHTSA index found no hit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0440?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0440 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0440 fail an emissions test?
C0440 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 C0440 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0440 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.