Magnasteer/Variable Effort Steering (VES)

C1241 MAGNASTEER MALFUNCTION

DTC C1241 - Magnasteer Malfunction (1 Of 2):

DTC C1241 - Magnasteer Malfunction (2 Of 2):

Circuit Description

The EBTCM controls a bi-directional magnetic rotary solenoid. The solenoid is in the steering gear. The solenoid adjusts the amount of power steering assist in order to achieve a given level of driver effort in turning the vehicle. The EBTCM varies the steering assist by adjusting the current flow through the solenoid. The amount of steering assist adjusted for steering is dependent upon vehicle speed. As the vehicle speed increases, the following actions occur:

^ The steering assist decreases.
^ The driver effort increases.

As the vehicle speed decreases, the following actions occur:

^ The steering assist increases.
^ The driver effort decreases.

The EBTCM detects an open or a short in the steering circuit by comparing feedback current to the commanded current. If the feedback current is less than 360 mA while the absolute value of the commanded current is greater than 826 mA for 0.5 seconds, a fault is present.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

All of the following conditions occur:

^ The ignition is ON.
^ The EBTCM detects one of the following conditions:
- An open
- A short to ground
- A short to voltage

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

^ The EBTCM stores a malfunction DTC.
^ The EBTCM disables the variable effort steering.
^ The DTC displays the SERVICE STEERING SYS message.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

^ The condition for DTC is no longer present and you used scan tool Clear DTCs function.
^ The condition for DTC is no longer present and you used the On-Board Clear DTCs function.
^ The EBTCM does not detect the DTC in 50 drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

^ Perform a thorough inspection of the wiring and the connectors. Failure to carefully and fully inspect wiring and connectors may result in misdiagnosis. This may cause part replacement with reappearance of the malfunction.
^ An intermittent malfunction may be caused by poor connections, broken insulation, or a wire that is broken inside the insulation.
^ If an intermittent malfunction exists, refer to Intermittents and Poor Connections.