Chassis, generic

C062A Variable Effort Steering Module Temperature Too High

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

The variable effort steering module, or its coil driver, reports a temperature above its permitted limit. Heat matters twice here: a GM patent on magnetic variable effort steering notes that fluid viscosity, magnet properties and coil current all drift with temperature and either fits a sensor in the fluid sump or infers temperature from the current error. A JTEKT patent warns that a continuously energised steering coil can reach about 200 °C and holds it at or below 100 °C by pulsing it. Driver chips set their own limits; TI's DRV8873-Q1 warns at a die temperature of roughly 140–160 °C and shuts down at 165–185 °C. No maker publishes C062A. The function is typically reduced or suspended until things cool down.

Likely causes

Very high underhood or fluid temperature, for example after long parking manoeuvres in heat
Partly shorted coil drawing excess current and heating the driver
Faulty internal temperature measurement reporting heat that is not there

Symptoms

  • Variable effort reduced or switched off temporarily
  • Steering feel changes after hard use and returns after cooling

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumWorkshop job
Parts and labour€0–1,200
Time0.3–3 h

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

Parts involved

ves module

Related codes

C062BC0628C061F

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