GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The usable output voltage range for the lateral accelerometer and the yaw rate sensor is 0.25-0.75 volts The scan tool will report zero lateral acceleration as 2.5 volts with no sensor bias present. The sensor variation is used to compensate sensor attaching alignment error, electronic signal errors, changes in temperature and manufacturer's differences.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC C0253 Centering Error

Conditions for Running the DTC

Vehicle speed is greater than 40 km/h (25 mph).

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The vehicle is running for 10 minutes but the steering angle is not centered.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The EBCM disables the VSES for the duration of the ignition cycle.
    • The driver information center (DIC) displays the service stability system message.
    • The ABS/TCS remains functional.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool.
    • The EBCM automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles.

Diagnostic Aids

The following conditions can cause this concern:

    • Improper steering alignment.
    • Open, short to ground, or short to voltage.
    • Internal lateral accelerometer failure.
    • Internal EBCM failure.

Test Description

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

  1. Perform the Steering Position Sensor Test in order to verify that the steering wheel position sensor (SWPS) is operating properly.

  2. Verify that the lateral accelerometer signal Parameter is within the valid range.

  3. Verify that the yaw rate signal parameter is within the valid range.

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Antilock Brake System Schematics

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. With the scan tool, perform the Steering Position Sensor Test.

Did the steering wheel position sensor (SWPS) pass the test?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 7

3

With a scan tool, observe the Lateral Accelerometer Signal parameter in the VSES data list.

Does the scan tool display within the specified range?

2.3-2.7 V

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 8

4

With a scan tool, observe the Yaw Rate Signal parameter in the VSES data list.

Does the scan tool display within the specified range?

2.3-2.7 V

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 8

5

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
  2. Perform the Diagnostic Test Drive. Refer to Diagnostic Test Drive .

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Diagnostic Aids

6

Replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM). Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

7

Replace the SWPS. Refer to Steering Wheel Position Sensor or Steering Shaft Lower Bearing Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

8

Replace the yaw rate/lateral accelerometer sensor. Refer to Vehicle Yaw Sensor with Vehicle Lateral Accelerometer Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 9

--

9

  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