Chassis, generic

C0053 Steering Wheel Position Sensor Signal B

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Covers signal B of the steering wheel position sensor, the second of the multi-track channels the ESC module cross-checks against signals A, C and D to reconstruct absolute steering angle. This code is set when channel B is out of range, open, shorted or inconsistent with the other channels. Ford documents C0053 together with C0052, C0054 and C0055 on 2020-2021 Police Interceptor Utility vehicles, where the codes store in the steering module if the police-package steering-wheel accessory outputs are left unwired. A fault disables stability control and sets the ABS/ESC warning lamp while base braking remains. The entry follows the SAE J2012 generic definition and multi-track steering-angle sensor design, where a single faulty track makes the reconstructed angle untrustworthy.

Likely causes

Signal B open or unconnected
Steering angle sensor channel B failed
Harness or connector fault

Symptoms

  • Stability control disabled
  • ABS/ESC warning lamp on
  • Implausible steering angle reading

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

C0052C0054C0055

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