Chassis, generic

C0620 Variable Effort Steering Lock/Safety Actuator Control Circuit/Open

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

Some steering systems that vary effort or ratio carry a second actuator whose only job is safety: a solenoid lock that blocks the motor or gear so the wheel turns the wheels directly. Delphi's patent combining Magnasteer with an active steering actuator uses a solenoid that is energised to unlock and drops into lock without power; JTEKT and Continental lock their superimposed steering the same fail-safe way. C0620 means this lock's circuit is open, so the unit cannot release and the variable function stays off. No maker publishes C0620 in this sense. On 2014–2019 GM trucks C0620 appears among suspension codes in PIT5307G, an older, unrelated assignment.

Likely causes

Connector to the lock solenoid unplugged or corroded
Open lock solenoid coil, for example after overheating
Broken wire between the steering module and the lock

Symptoms

  • Variable steering function disabled; steering works with a fixed characteristic
  • Steering system warning
  • Possible click or no click from the steering when switching on

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€30–2,000
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

ves lock actuator

Related codes

C0621C0622C0623C061C

References: patents.google.com, patents.google.com, patents.google.com, static.nhtsa.gov.