C0626 code meaning
Variable Effort Steering Sensor Circuit Low
What C0626 means
C0626 means the signal of the variable effort steering sensor reads below the lowest level the module accepts. A Kelsey-Hayes patent shows the typical window for such a steering wheel sensor: with a 5 V supply each channel switches between roughly 0.6 V and 4.4 V, and anything under the lower band counts as low. After about 5 ms out of range the module stops trusting the signal, and after roughly 100 ms it latches an open or short fault. A Ford patent lists steering wheel rate and position among the inputs of a speed-dependent effort controller. Typical causes are a signal wire shorted to ground, a lost 5 V feed or a failed output stage. No maker publishes C0626. Unlike C0627, the fault lies on the ground side.
C0626 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 repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C0626
- Variable assist disabled, steering effort fixed
- Steering warning lamp or message
Common causes of C0626
- Most likelySignal wire chafed through and shorted to ground
- Possible5 V sensor feed missing or pulled down by another fault
- PossibleSensor output stage failed and stuck low
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ves sensor
What each part of C0626 means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 26 | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C0626 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 C0626
What does C0626 mean?
C0626 means "Variable Effort Steering Sensor Circuit Low". C0626 means the signal of the variable effort steering sensor reads below the lowest level the module accepts. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C0626?
C0626 does not normally turn on the check engine light by itself. Watch for the symptoms above and have it checked soon.
Will C0626 fail an emissions test?
C0626 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 C0626 to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C0626 clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.