C0498 code meaning
Lateral Acceleration Sensor Circuit
What C0498 means
C0498 is in none of the accessible J2012 lists. GM does use the number: bulletin PIP5094, a terminal-test reminder for GM cars and light trucks of 2014 and earlier, names C0498 and C0499 among many chassis codes, but without any wording, so GM's meaning stays undocumented and a lateral accelerometer fault is not confirmed; the established code with this title is C0186. The part itself is a capacitive sensor whose middle plate swings between two fixed plates under sideways force. On the Saab 9-5 it puts out 0–5 V, about 2.6 V straight ahead, and the ESP module recognises a broken wire or one shorted to ground or battery. A GM EBCM shows the same signal as 0–5 V. Losing it takes away a key ESC input.
C0498 at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0498
- Stability control unavailable, ESC lamp depending on the make
- Lateral acceleration reads a fixed value on the scan tool
Common causes of C0498
- Most likelyOpen circuit or short in the signal, reference or ground wire
- PossibleLoose or corroded connector at the sensor cluster
- PossibleLateral acceleration sensor defective
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Lateral acceleration sensorABS control moduleSensor wiring
What each part of C0498 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 98 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0498 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 C0498
What does C0498 mean?
C0498 means "Lateral Acceleration Sensor Circuit". C0498 is in none of the accessible J2012 lists. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0498?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0498 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0498 fail an emissions test?
C0498 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 C0498 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0498 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.