U2956 – Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor.
The ODBII code U2956 indicates a loss of communication with the steering angle sensor, which may affect the vehicle’s stability control and steering functions.
The severity of ODBII code U2956 is generally considered moderate.
Common Causes For: U2955 Lost Communication with the Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) A.
- Faulty steering angle sensor
- Damaged wiring or connectors
- Poor electrical connections
- Malfunctioning vehicle control module
- Software issues or updates needed
- Corrosion in connectors or terminals
- Interference from other electronic components
- Low battery voltage or power supply issues
Common misdiagnosis for U2956 Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor.
- Faulty Steering Angle Sensor
- Wiring Issues or Short Circuits
- Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
- Faulty Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Module
- Incorrectly Calibrated Steering Angle Sensor
- Faulty Instrument Cluster
- Issues with the CAN Bus Communication
- Battery or Power Supply Problems
Common Troubleshooting Steps
When dealing with OBD-II code U2956, which indicates “Lost Communication with the Steering Angle Sensor,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:
- Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other related trouble codes. This can provide more context and help identify if there are other issues present.
- Inspect Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the steering angle sensor for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- **Connector Pins: Ensure that the pins in the connectors are not bent, corroded, or pushed back.
- Test the Steering Angle Sensor: **Sensor Functionality: If possible, test the steering angle sensor using a multimeter or scan tool to ensure it is functioning correctly. Check for proper voltage and resistance values as specified in the vehicle’s service manual.
- **Calibration: Some vehicles require the steering angle sensor to be calibrated after installation or repair. Check if calibration is necessary.
- Check for Power and Ground: Verify that the steering angle sensor is receiving the correct power and ground signals. Use a multimeter to check voltage at the sensor connector.
- Inspect the CAN Bus: Since the steering angle sensor communicates over the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, check for any issues with the CAN bus wiring. Look for shorts, opens, or other faults in the wiring.
- Use a scan tool to monitor the CAN bus for communication errors.
- Check for Interference: Ensure that there are no aftermarket devices or modifications that could be interfering with the communication between the steering angle sensor and the vehicle’s control modules.
- Reset the Codes: After performing inspections and repairs, clear the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
- Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check for any TSBs related to the steering angle sensor or communication issues for your specific vehicle make and model. Manufacturers may have issued guidance or fixes for known issues.
- Replace the Steering Angle Sensor: If all other steps have been exhausted and the sensor is still not communicating, it may be necessary to replace the steering angle sensor.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue after following these steps, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or automotive technician who has experience with your vehicle’s systems. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the U2956 code and take appropriate action to resolve the communication issue with the steering angle sensor.