Code Definition

C1278 — Steering Wheel Angle 1 and 2 Signal Faulted

System: Chassis  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Ford

About C1278

C1278 is a manufacturer-specific chassis diagnostic trouble code recorded for Ford vehicles. It belongs to the C-prefix family of codes, which covers chassis, braking, steering, suspension, or stability-control faults.

Scanning & clearing: Chassis (C) codes are stored in the ABS, traction control, or stability-control modules. An enhanced or OEM-level scan tool is usually required to read and clear them.

C1278 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The chassis or ABS control module continuously cross checks the two angle signals from the Steering Wheel Angle Sensor (SAS) to ensure they are reporting consistent and plausible steering wheel position data. DTC C1278 sets when both angle 1 and angle 2 signals are present but the values are corrupted, out of expected range, or fail the cross check comparison against each other and against yaw rate and wheel speed inputs. This is different from a complete loss of signal, the signals are there but they do not make sense, often caused by intermittent clockspring continuity, electrical noise, or ...

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