Chassis, generic

C0720 Electric Power Steering Torque Sensor Circuit

Check engine lightUsually off
EmissionsNot relevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modePossible

No publicly available J2012 list contains C0720, and the only maker that uses it means something else: GM files C0720 71 on the 2011 Saab 9-5 and 9-4X as invalid engine torque data received by the suspension module over CAN; the damping control stays off for that ignition cycle and a history entry clears after 41 fault-free cycles. For the torque sensor in the title, GM uses C0545 instead (bulletin PIT5213B for 2014-15 full-size trucks) and Stellantis C1593. The sensor measures the twist of a torsion bar between steering wheel and gear, often with linear Hall chips such as Infineon's TLE499x family. GM's special coverage 15356 for the 2007-12 Malibu, G6 and Aura shows the effect of a failed sensor: sudden loss of assist with a warning chime, fixed by a new sensor or motor/controller.

Likely causes

Steering torque sensor defective
Loose or corroded connector between sensor and EPS module
Sensor zero point not learned after replacement

Symptoms

  • Sudden loss of steering assist with warning message and chime
  • Heavy steering at low speed

Repair estimate

DifficultyHardWorkshop job
Parts and labour€200–1,800
Time1–4 h

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

Parts involved

eps torque sensoreps control modulesensor wiring

Related codes

C0825C0827C0725

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