What Does C0498 Mean?
This code indicates the power steering control module has detected a voltage in the steering assist actuator motor feed circuit that is below the expected threshold. The electronic power steering (EPS) or electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system's control module monitors the voltage supplied to the steering assist motor and has identified an abnormally low voltage condition. This suggests insufficient power is reaching the steering assist actuator, which can result in loss of power steering assistance or complete steering assist failure.
Safety Warning
This is a critical safety issue as loss of power steering assistance significantly increases steering effort, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers, which can lead to loss of vehicle control. Vehicle should not be driven until repaired, as sudden loss of steering assist while driving poses serious accident risk.
Common Causes
35%
Open circuit, high resistance, or damaged wiring in the power feed circuit between the power steering control module and the assist motor
30%
Faulty power steering assist motor with internal winding failure or short to ground
20%
Blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the steering assist system
10%
Failed power steering control module with internal driver circuit failure
5%
Poor battery or charging system performance causing overall low system voltage
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Perform visual inspection of all power steering motor wiring harness connectors for corrosion, damaged pins, or looseness. Check for chafed, pinched, or damaged wiring along the harness routing from the steering column to the control module.
2
Step 2: Using a digital multimeter, measure battery voltage at the battery terminals with engine running (should be 13.5-14.5V). Then backprobe the power feed circuit at the steering motor connector and verify voltage matches battery voltage with ignition on and steering activated.
3
Step 3: Check continuity of the power feed circuit from the power steering fuse/relay to the motor connector. Verify fuse integrity and relay operation by testing coil resistance (70-90 ohms typical) and checking for audible click during activation.
4
Step 4: Disconnect the steering assist motor connector and measure resistance across the motor terminals (typically 0.5-3 ohms depending on vehicle). Also check for shorts to ground from each motor terminal to chassis ground (should read infinite resistance).
5
Step 5: If all circuits test normal, monitor live data for steering motor current draw command versus actual current while turning the steering wheel. Significant deviation indicates control module driver circuit failure.
6
Step 6: Clear codes and perform a test drive with moderate steering inputs. Re-scan for code return and verify proper power steering operation. If code returns immediately, suspect control module; if intermittent, focus on connector and wiring integrity.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $1,800
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the power steering control module has detected a voltage in the steering assist actuator motor feed circuit that is below the expected threshold. The electronic power steering (EPS) or electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system's control module monitors the voltage supplied t...
The most common cause of C0498 (Steering Assist Control Actuator Feed Circuit Low) is: Open circuit, high resistance, or damaged wiring in the power feed circuit between the power steering control module and the assist motor
Typical repair costs for C0498 range from $150 to $1,800, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
This is a critical safety issue as loss of power steering assistance significantly increases steering effort, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers, which can lead to loss of vehicle control. Vehicle should not be driven until repaired, as sudden loss of steering assist while driving poses serious accident risk.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C0498 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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