C0498

Circuit Description
The EVO/Passlock(tm) module supplies a 0-850 milliamperes pulse width modulation (PWM) (percent duty cycle) to the power steering solenoid actuator. This current is used in order to extend or retract the actuator valve inside the solenoid. This in turn will regulate an orifice on the power steering pump, causing a modulation of the fluid flow output. This results in an increase or a decrease in the steering wheel effort. With 0 milliampere supplied to the power steering solenoid actuator, the valve will be fully retracted, providing a maximum fluid flow and power steering assist. With 850 milliamperes supplied to the power steering solenoid actuator, the valve will extend, decreasing the fluid flow and minimizing the power steering assist. The EVO/Passlock(tm) module is constantly adjusting the current flow to the power steering solenoid actuator based on the vehicle speed and the rate of change of the steering wheel position. This provides the vehicle speed-related power steering assist.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
- CKT 1294 (WHT) is a short to ground.
- The ignition switch is cycled to the OFF position and then to the ON position.
- The above conditions are present for one second or longer.
Action Taken When The DTC Sets
The EVO/Passlock(tm) module will not send any current to the power steering solenoid actuator. This will cause the retraction of the power steering solenoid actuator valve, providing maximum fluid flow and full power steering assist at all times.
Conditions For Clearing The DTC
- A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles have occurred without a fault.
- The history and the current DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool.
Diagnostic Aids
- The cause of an intermittent problem may be a poor connection, a break in the wire insulation exposing the internal wire, or a wire that is broken inside the insulation.
- Thoroughly check the EVO/Passlock(tm) module and the vehicle control module (VCM) or the powertrain control module (PCM) for terminals that have backed out, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, weak terminal retaining tension, or improper routing.
- The power steering solenoid actuator valve may be stuck. This provides incalculable power steering assist. For mechanical diagnosis, refer to Power Steering Gear and Pump.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
1. This step ensures that the Variable Effort Steering System Check is performed.
2. This step determines if the CKT 194 (WHT) is shorted to ground.
3. This step determines if the EVO/Passlock(tm) module is inoperative.
4. This step checks for a short to ground in the steering assist control solenoid.