C1B00: How to Diagnose & Fix — Steering Angle Sensor Fault
6 vehicles · 2 makes · $250-$3,500 repair
How to diagnose and fix C1B00: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Ford Transit · 2015–2020
NHTSA complaints include intermittent or sudden loss of power steering assist with warning messages, making the van difficult to steer at low speeds. Reports often describe the issue occurring after a restart, during parking maneuvers, or intermittently with electrical/communication faults. The Transit’s EPAS system can set steering-related DTCs and may require module diagnosis or replacement depending on root cause.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering assist reduced or lost
- Steering warning light/message
- Heavy steering at low speeds
- Intermittent return of assist after key cycle
- Steering-related communication faults
How to Fix
Scan for PSCM/ABS network faults, check battery/charging health and grounds, inspect steering rack electrical connections, and update software if applicable. If confirmed, replace the steering gear/EPAS rack or related control module per Ford diagnostics and perform steering angle/center calibration.
Sources for this issue (1)
Ford Bronco · 2021–2024
Multiple Bronco owners reported sudden loss of power steering assist, often accompanied by warning messages and very heavy manual steering effort at low speeds. The issue has been tied to failures in the electric power steering system and steering gear/rack assembly, and Ford issued a safety recall for certain vehicles because an internal steering gear component could fail and cause loss of steering control. Owner complaints and forum reports describe intermittent assist loss first, then complete failure requiring rack replacement.
Common Symptoms
- Power steering assist fault message
- Very heavy steering effort
- Intermittent steering assist loss
- Steering wheel jerks or binds
- Warning lights on dash
How to Fix
Scan the PSCM/ABS modules for steering-related faults and inspect for active recalls or field service actions before replacing parts. Dealers typically replace the steering gear/rack assembly and perform module calibration; in intermittent cases, wiring and connector checks at the rack and battery voltage verification are also important. If recall coverage applies, the repair should be completed through Ford rather than paid out of pocket.
Sources for this issue (1)
Nissan Sentra · 2015–2021
Sentras equipped with Nissan's Forward Emergency Braking / Automatic Emergency Braking apply the brakes hard for non-existent obstacles ('phantom braking'). The Bosch radar module behind the front grille (sensor assembly p/n 28438-5UD0A) produces false positives, frequently triggered by overpasses, bridges, railroad tracks, parking-garage walls, and metal grates. Nissan disclosed 1,233 related consumer complaints to NHTSA for the Rogue/Rogue Sport/Sentra, including dozens of minor collisions and injury allegations, and the defect is the subject of class-action litigation.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden hard braking with no obstacle present
- Forward Emergency Braking warning chime and dashboard alert
- Brake activation near bridges, overpasses, railroad tracks, or parking garages
- Vehicle lurches/decelerates unexpectedly at speed
How to Fix
Have the dealer inspect/recalibrate or replace the distance (radar) sensor assembly and apply any FEB-related ECU software updates per TSB. As an interim measure the FEB/AEB system can be switched off via the settings menu when the false activations are dangerous. Document incidents and check for an extended warranty or class-action remedy on the radar module.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (3)
Ford F-150 · 2011–2016
Ford Mustang · 2011–2014
Find C1B00 by make
Browse every documented model and issue for your make.
C1B00 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C1B00 mean?
C1B00 stands for "Steering Angle Sensor Fault." C1B00 is a manufacturer-specific chassis code (commonly Ford) indicating the power steering or stability control module detected a fault with the steering angle (steering wheel position) sensor. This sensor tells stability control and electric power steering where the steering wheel is pointed, which is essential for traction/stability control and assist calibration. When the signal is missing, erratic, or fails plausibility checks, the module sets this code and may disable stability control and reduce or alter power steering assist. Steering still works mechanically, but related driver-assist systems may be limited.
What are the most common causes of C1B00?
The most common causes of C1B00 are: Faulty steering angle sensor / clockspring assembly, Calibration not performed after alignment, battery, or steering service, Damaged or corroded sensor wiring/connector, Erratic or implausible sensor signal vs. other inputs, Power steering control module fault, Low system voltage or poor ground, Worn or damaged steering column components. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C1B00?
Repair costs for C1B00 range from $250 to $3,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by C1B00?
Au7o has documented C1B00 across 6 vehicle models from 2 manufacturers: Ford, Nissan.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.