C062A code meaning
Variable Effort Steering Module Temperature Too High
What C062A means
The variable effort steering module, or its coil driver, reports a temperature above its permitted limit. Heat matters twice here: a GM patent on magnetic variable effort steering notes that fluid viscosity, magnet properties and coil current all drift with temperature and either fits a sensor in the fluid sump or infers temperature from the current error. A JTEKT patent warns that a continuously energised steering coil can reach about 200 °C and holds it at or below 100 °C by pulsing it. Driver chips set their own limits; TI's DRV8873-Q1 warns at a die temperature of roughly 140–160 °C and shuts down at 165–185 °C. No maker publishes C062A. The function is typically reduced or suspended until things cool down.
C062A at a glance
- Check engine lightUsually not
- Emissions testNot an emissions code
- Limp modePossible
- Repair difficultyMedium
- Typical labor0.3 to 3 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of C062A
- Variable effort reduced or switched off temporarily
- Steering feel changes after hard use and returns after cooling
Common causes of C062A
- PossibleVery high underhood or fluid temperature, for example after long parking manoeuvres in heat
- PossiblePartly shorted coil drawing excess current and heating the driver
- Less likelyFaulty internal temperature measurement reporting heat that is not there
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Ves module
What each part of C062A means
| C | Chassis system: brakes, ABS, steering and suspension. |
| 0 | Generic code: it means the same on every make (SAE standard). |
| 2A | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note C062A 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 C062A
What does C062A mean?
C062A means "Variable Effort Steering Module Temperature Too High". The variable effort steering module, or its coil driver, reports a temperature above its permitted limit. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with C062A?
Drive gently and only to a workshop. With C062A the car can go into limp mode (reduced power) to protect itself.
Will C062A fail an emissions test?
C062A 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 C062A to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.3 to 3 hours of work. This is a job for a workshop.
Will C062A clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.