A faulty temperature sensor inside the variable effort steering module, reading colder than actual.; A poor electrical connection or corroded terminal at the steering module harness, causing a skewed sensor signal.; Low system voltage or a weak battery during cold starts, which can cause the module to misreport temperature.; An internal fault in the steering control module's temperature sensing circuit or firmware calibration.; Extended parking in extreme cold without a block heater, pushing the module below its designed operating range.; A wiring harness chafe or open circuit between the temperature sensor and the module, intermittently dropping the signal.

DTC codes / C06xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C062B

C062BVariable Effort Steering Module Temperature Too Low

Q: What does code C062B mean?

Variable Effort Steering Module Temperature Too Low. The variable effort steering module has reported that its internal temperature is below the calibrated minimum for reliable operation, so the system cannot guarantee the intended steering assist. The module sets this code when the temperature sensor inside the steering control unit reads colder than the threshold during the allowed operating window, often after a cold start or in freezing ambient conditions.

The variable effort steering module has reported that its internal temperature is below the calibrated minimum for reliable operation, so the system cannot guarantee the intended steering assist. The module sets this code when the temperature sensor inside the steering control unit reads colder than the threshold during the allowed operating window, often after a cold start or in freezing ambient conditions.

SystemChassis

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

The steering feels heavier or less assisted than normal, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers.
A stability control or power steering warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
The variable effort steering system may default to a fixed assist level, making steering feel inconsistent.
In cold weather, the steering may feel stiff for the first few minutes of driving until the module warms up.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with normal steering feel once the vehicle has warmed up.

Common causes, most likely first

A faulty temperature sensor inside the variable effort steering module, reading colder than actual.
A poor electrical connection or corroded terminal at the steering module harness, causing a skewed sensor signal.
Low system voltage or a weak battery during cold starts, which can cause the module to misreport temperature.
An internal fault in the steering control module's temperature sensing circuit or firmware calibration.
Extended parking in extreme cold without a block heater, pushing the module below its designed operating range.
A wiring harness chafe or open circuit between the temperature sensor and the module, intermittently dropping the signal.

How to diagnose and fix it

Scan all modules for stored and pending codes, and record freeze-frame data to see the ambient and module temperatures at the time of the fault.
Inspect the steering module connector and harness for corrosion, water intrusion, or loose pins, and clean or repair as needed.
Test the battery and charging system, including a cold-crank voltage check, because low voltage during cold starts can trigger false temperature codes.
Use a scan tool to compare the module's reported temperature against actual ambient temperature after a cold soak, looking for a large offset.
Check for technical service bulletins or software updates for the steering module that address cold-temperature calibration issues.
If the sensor circuit tests out of specification, replace the variable effort steering module or its temperature sensor as applicable.
Clear the code and perform a road test from a cold start to confirm the fault does not return under the same conditions.

Cold-weather steering module faults you should not overlook

This code frequently appears after a overnight cold soak in winter and may never return once the vehicle is parked in a heated garage, so the fault can be intermittent and hard to reproduce.
A weak battery or poor ground connection can cause the module to log a temperature-too-low code even when the sensor itself is healthy, because the module's internal reference voltage is unstable during cranking.
Technicians sometimes replace the steering module only to find the real problem was a chafed harness behind the dash or in the engine bay that intermittently shorted the sensor signal to ground.
The variable effort steering module often shares a communication bus with the stability control system, so unrelated codes in those modules can accompany this one and distract from the true cause.
Do not assume the code means the steering system is mechanically failing; the module is reporting a temperature reading, not a loss of assist, and the steering may still function normally once warmed up.

Can I keep driving with C062B?

You can generally continue driving, but expect heavier steering until the module warms up, and avoid high-speed maneuvers or towing until the warning light clears. If the steering assist drops out completely or the warning light flashes, have the system inspected promptly.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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