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DTC codes / C07xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0715

C0715Power Steering Pressure Sensor Range/Performance

C0715 indicates that the power steering pressure sensor circuit has reported a signal outside its expected range or performance window to the power steering control module. The module compares the sensor voltage against known pressure thresholds and flags this code when the signal is implausible, erratic, or stuck within a key-on or running self-test.

SystemChassis
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the power steering warning light or a stability control warning light on the dashboard
  • Heavier-than-normal steering effort, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers
  • Intermittent steering assist that may fade in and out while driving
  • A steering system that feels overly sensitive or twitchy at highway speeds
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, with steering feel completely normal
  • A stored code that returns immediately after clearing even when the steering feels fine

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty power steering pressure sensor sending an erratic or out-of-range voltage
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring harness and connector pins at the pressure sensor
  3. Poor ground connection for the power steering control module or sensor return circuit
  4. Low or contaminated power steering fluid causing pressure readings outside normal bounds
  5. Failed power steering control module or internal driver for the sensor reference voltage
  6. Restricted or leaking power steering line affecting actual pressure seen by the sensor
  7. Aftermarket or incorrect sensor installed that does not match the system calibration

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for related codes and record freeze-frame data to see the conditions when C0715 set
  2. Inspect the power steering fluid level and condition, topping off or flushing only if contaminated
  3. Visually inspect the pressure sensor connector and harness for chafing, corrosion, or loose pins
  4. Back-probe the sensor signal wire and compare voltage to the manufacturer's pressure-to-voltage chart
  5. Check the sensor reference voltage and ground circuit for voltage drops under load
  6. Test the pressure sensor with a known-good unit or signal simulator before condemning the module
  7. If wiring and sensor test good, follow the factory diagnostic flow for control module replacement or reprogramming

What the pressure sensor code hides

  • A loose or corroded ground at the power steering pump bracket often mimics a failed pressure sensor and sets C0715 without any sensor fault at all.
  • Low fluid level from a slow leak can push the pressure signal outside the expected range during hard steering, setting this code before the driver notices any steering change.
  • Technicians sometimes replace the pressure sensor only to find the reference voltage from the control module is low, which points to a module or shared ground problem instead.
  • This code can be stored by a momentary glitch during a low-voltage event such as a weak battery or jump start, so clearing and rechecking after a full drive cycle is essential.
  • On some vehicles the power steering pressure sensor shares a five-volt reference with other sensors, so a short in an unrelated component can pull the signal down and trigger C0715.

Can I keep driving with C0715?

You can usually drive carefully to a repair shop if the steering feels normal, but avoid heavy parking maneuvers and high-speed evasive moves until the fault is diagnosed. If steering assist drops noticeably or the wheel becomes hard to turn, stop driving and have the vehicle towed.

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.

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