Chassis, generic

C0498 Lateral Acceleration Sensor Circuit

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

C0498 is in none of the accessible J2012 lists. GM does use the number: bulletin PIP5094, a terminal-test reminder for GM cars and light trucks of 2014 and earlier, names C0498 and C0499 among many chassis codes, but without any wording, so GM's meaning stays undocumented and a lateral accelerometer fault is not confirmed; the established code with this title is C0186. The part itself is a capacitive sensor whose middle plate swings between two fixed plates under sideways force. On the Saab 9-5 it puts out 0–5 V, about 2.6 V straight ahead, and the ESP module recognises a broken wire or one shorted to ground or battery. A GM EBCM shows the same signal as 0–5 V. Losing it takes away a key ESC input.

Likely causes

Open circuit or short in the signal, reference or ground wire
Loose or corroded connector at the sensor cluster
Lateral acceleration sensor defective

Symptoms

  • Stability control unavailable, ESC lamp depending on the make
  • Lateral acceleration reads a fixed value on the scan tool

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€60–500
Time0.5–2 h

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

Parts involved

lateral acceleration sensorabs control modulesensor wiring

Related codes

C0186C0499C0520C0496

References: static.nhtsa.gov, saabwisonline.com, saabwisonline.com.