For 1990-2009 cars

### Circuit Description

The Variable Effort Steering (VES) system uses the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) to provide a control and return circuit for the VES actuator. The EBCM commands current from 0-619 mA depending on vehicle speed and steering position sensor signal voltage input. The EBCM compares the commanded and feedback currents to detect malfunctions in the VES actuator or the circuits to the actuator.

### Conditions for Running the DTC

• | No ABS or TCS malfunctions present.

• | The ignition is ON.

### Conditions for Setting the DTC

AN open, short to ground, or a short to voltage in the VES actuator or the circuits to the actuator.

### Action Taken When the DTC Sets

• | A DTC C1241 is stored in memory.

• | The VES system is disabled.

### Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

• | A current DTC will clear when the malfunction is no longer present.

• | A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive malfunction free ignition cycles.

• | Using the scan tool

### Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

1. Tests if the commanded and feedback current parameters are with in specified range in the systems active state.

2. Tests if the VES actuator resistance is within specified range.

3. Tests if the VES actuator control circuit is shorted to ground.

4. Perform the setup procedure after replacing the EBCM.

Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No
--- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Schematic Reference: Steering Assist Schematics
1 | Did you perform the Variable Effort Steering Diagnostic System Check? | -- | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Variable Effort Steering
2 |

1. Install a scan tool.
2. Test drive the vehicle at 64 km/h (40 mph).
3. observe the VES Actuator Commanded, and the VES Actuator Feedback data parameters in the VES data list.

Does the scan tool indicate that the VES actuator Commanded, and the VES actuator Feedback data parameters are within 25.0 mA of each other and within the specified range?

455.9 mA-470.2 mA

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in wiring systems

Go to Step 3

3 |

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Disconnect the VES actuator harness connector.
3. Measure the resistance of the VES actuator.

Does the resistance measure within the specified range?

10-16 ohms

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 8

4 | Test the control circuit of the VES actuator for a short to ground. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Repairs. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 5
5 | Test the control circuit of the VES actuator for an open or a short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 6
6 | Test the return circuit of the VES actuator for a short to ground. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 7
7 | Test the return circuit of the VES actuator for an open or short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 9
8 | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the VES actuator. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 10
9 | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the EBCM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 11
10 | Replace the VES actuator. Refer to Variable Effort Steering Actuator Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 12 | --
11 | Replace the EBCM. Refer to Electronic Brake Control Module Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 12 | --
12 |

1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK