A faulty yaw rate sensor, often due to internal electronic failure or contamination.; Damaged or corroded wiring and connectors between the yaw rate sensor and the stability control module.; A blown fuse or poor ground connection supplying power to the yaw rate sensor circuit.; The yaw rate sensor not properly calibrated or initialized after battery replacement or suspension work.; A malfunctioning stability control module that is misinterpreting a valid sensor signal.; Low battery voltage or charging system issues causing erratic sensor operation.; Aftermarket accessories or improper electrical repairs introducing interference on the sensor circuit.

DTC codes / C04xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0496

C0496Yaw Rate Sensor Circuit

Q: What does code C0496 mean?

Yaw Rate Sensor Circuit. C0496 indicates that the vehicle's stability control module has detected a fault in the electrical circuit of the yaw rate sensor, which measures how fast the vehicle is rotating around its vertical axis. The module monitors the sensor's signal and supply voltage, and when the readings fall outside the expected range or the circuit is open or shorted, it stores this code and typically disables the electronic stability program (ESP) as a safety precaution.

C0496 indicates that the vehicle's stability control module has detected a fault in the electrical circuit of the yaw rate sensor, which measures how fast the vehicle is rotating around its vertical axis. The module monitors the sensor's signal and supply voltage, and when the readings fall outside the expected range or the circuit is open or shorted, it stores this code and typically disables the electronic stability program (ESP) as a safety precaution.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

The stability control (ESP) warning light illuminates steadily on the dashboard.
The traction control system may be disabled, and the ESP OFF indicator may also come on.
The vehicle may feel less stable in evasive maneuvers or on slippery surfaces because stability control is not intervening.
In some vehicles, the anti-lock brake system (ABS) warning light may also illuminate if the yaw rate signal is shared with ABS.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, and the vehicle drives normally under gentle conditions.

Common causes, most likely first

A faulty yaw rate sensor, often due to internal electronic failure or contamination.
Damaged or corroded wiring and connectors between the yaw rate sensor and the stability control module.
A blown fuse or poor ground connection supplying power to the yaw rate sensor circuit.
The yaw rate sensor not properly calibrated or initialized after battery replacement or suspension work.
A malfunctioning stability control module that is misinterpreting a valid sensor signal.
Low battery voltage or charging system issues causing erratic sensor operation.
Aftermarket accessories or improper electrical repairs introducing interference on the sensor circuit.

How to diagnose and fix it

Verify battery voltage and charging system output, as low voltage can set false yaw rate sensor codes.
Inspect the yaw rate sensor connector and wiring for corrosion, loose pins, or physical damage, and repair as needed.
Check the fuse and ground connections for the yaw rate sensor circuit using a multimeter and wiring diagram.
Measure the sensor's signal and supply voltage with a scan tool or oscilloscope to confirm whether the sensor or circuit is at fault.
If the sensor is accessible, perform a calibration or reinitialization procedure as required by the manufacturer after any repair.
Replace the yaw rate sensor if testing confirms it is not producing a valid signal, then clear codes and verify the repair.
If the fault persists, diagnose the stability control module and its software for internal faults or communication errors.

Yaw sensor faults that fool good technicians

A weak or failing battery is a common hidden cause; the yaw rate sensor is sensitive to voltage drops, and the code may clear after charging or replacing the battery.
The yaw rate sensor often shares a mounting bracket with the accelerometer, and a loose or bent bracket can cause misalignment and set the code even if the sensor itself is good.
After suspension repairs or a wheel alignment, the steering angle sensor and yaw rate sensor may need recalibration; skipping this step can trigger C0496.
Some vehicles require the yaw rate sensor to be initialized with a scan tool after replacement, and driving without calibration will immediately reset the code.
The code can be set by a faulty ABS wheel speed sensor or steering angle sensor because the stability control module cross-checks these signals against the yaw rate reading.

Can I keep driving with C0496?

You can usually drive the vehicle with C0496, but stability control and traction control will be disabled, so take extra care in wet, icy, or emergency maneuvers. Avoid aggressive driving and have the fault diagnosed soon, as the system will not intervene to help prevent a skid.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.