GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0252 00:  Vehicle Stability Enhancement System (VSES) Sensors Uncorrected

Circuit/System Description

The electronic brake control module (EBCM) controls the vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) by monitoring the inputs of the yaw rate/lateral accelerometer sensor, and steering wheel angle sensor . The readings are compared to an internal calibrated value so it knows if the vehicle is having an instability condition to activate the VSES. When the readings indicate a VSES event is occurring longer than 10 seconds is not possible under normal conditions. The yaw/lateral sensor is a combination sensor in one component.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The steer angle has been centered.
    • The VSES is active.
    • The direction, understeer or oversteer, of the yaw rate error has not changed.
    • The lateral acceleration is less than 0.5 grams.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

One of the following conditions occur:

    • The VSES is engaged for 10 seconds with the yaw rate error always in either understeer or oversteer. Under this condition, this DTC will set by itself.
    • The yaw rate error is greater than 10 degrees/second for 5 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

If equipped, the following actions occur:

    • The EBCM disables the ABS/traction control system (TCS)/VSES and for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The ABS indicator illuminates.
    • The Stability Off indicator illuminates.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles if the condition for the malfunction is no longer present.
    • Using a scan tool

Diagnostic Aids

The following conditions can cause this concern:

    • Improper steering alignment or tire pull
    • An improperly mounted or loose combination yaw rate/lateral accelerometer sensor
    • An internal yaw rate/lateral accelerometer failure

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

ABS Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Verify that DTC C0186, C0196, C0253, or C0710 is not set.

If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle .