C0605 code meaning
Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Circuit/Open
What C0605 means
The steering wheel angle sensor tells the stability system how far and how quickly the driver turns. C0605 means its circuit is open or no usable signal arrives at all: a broken supply, ground or signal wire, an unplugged connector or a dead sensor. In a Bosch patent for a PWM-output sensor, the control unit treats the signal as missing when no high level appears within one PWM period; a Kelsey-Hayes patent declares an open or short once the phase lines stay out of range for about 5 ms and blocks yaw control. Bosch's GMR sensor today sends angle and rate over CAN. No maker publishes C0605 with this meaning; GM's PI0954 used C0605 on the 2010 Buick LaCrosse for a suspension accelerometer, an unrelated older assignment.
C0605 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 C0605
- ESC/stability control warning lamp on, system off
- Traction control and lane or parking assistants may be unavailable
- Steering angle reads zero or not available in scan data
Common causes of C0605
- Most likelyConnector at the steering column loose or not latched after airbag or column work
- PossibleBroken supply, ground or signal wire in the column harness
- PossibleSteering angle sensor electronics failed
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Steering angle sensorABS control module
What each part of C0605 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 05 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0605 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 C0605
What does C0605 mean?
C0605 means "Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Circuit/Open". The steering wheel angle sensor tells the stability system how far and how quickly the driver turns. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0605?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C0605 the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C0605 fail an emissions test?
C0605 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 C0605 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0605 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.