Chassis, generic

C0051 Steering Wheel Position Sensor

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleRequired
Limp modePossible

Covers the steering wheel position (steering angle) sensor and its circuit. The sensor reports absolute steering-wheel angle and rate to the ESC module, which combines it with yaw rate, lateral acceleration and wheel speeds to decide when the car is understeering or oversteering. The module sets this code for an out-of-range signal, an open or short, or a neutral/centre position that is not learned or is implausible. Honda documents DTC C0051-54, set when the steering-angle centre position has not finished its learn routine, which can occur after a battery disconnect and usually self-clears after a short straight drive; Mazda logs C0051:62 when the learned steering-angle value differs too far from the initial value. A fault disables stability control and sets the ABS/ESC warning lamp while base braking remains.

Likely causes

Neutral position not learned after service
Steering angle sensor failed
Harness or connector fault

Symptoms

  • Stability control disabled
  • ABS/ESC warning lamp on
  • Sets after battery disconnect

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€80–700
Time0.5–2.5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

steering angle sensor

Related codes

C0052C0053C0054

References: static.nhtsa.gov, bosch-mobility.com.