Chassis, generic

C0623 Variable Effort Steering Lock/Safety Actuator Control Circuit Performance

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

C0623 covers a lock or safety actuator whose circuit is sound but whose action does not match the command: it does not release when energised, does not engage in time, or its current is implausible. JTEKT's lock coil first gets full duty for about one second to pull the arm free, then 60 % below 13 V or 40 % above 14 V to hold it, which keeps the coil at or below 100 °C instead of near 200 °C. GM's active steering patent switches to the mechanical lock if electrical locking has not taken effect within about 42 ms. A worn lock pin, a sticky arm, a weak spring or a hot coil can each upset such timing. No maker publishes C0623; the variable steering function is switched off until the code clears.

Likely causes

Sticking lock arm or pin, worn lock teeth
Solenoid weakened by heat, pull-in force too low
Low supply voltage during release
Weak or broken return spring, lock engages late

Symptoms

  • Steering warning and variable function off
  • Clicking or knocking from the steering column at start or stop
  • Steering wheel slightly off-centre after the system locks

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€50–2,000
Time0.5–4 h

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

Parts involved

ves lock actuator

Related codes

C0620C0621C0622C061F

References: patents.google.com, patents.google.com, patents.google.com.