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DTC codes / C07xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0725

C0725Electric Power Steering Motor Circuit

This code indicates that the electric power steering (EPS) control module has detected a fault in the electrical circuit that powers the EPS motor, which is the component that provides steering assist. The module monitors the motor's power and ground circuits for abnormal voltage, current draw, or continuity, and it sets this code when the circuit does not behave as expected.

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

Symptoms you may notice

  • The power steering warning light illuminates on the dashboard, often accompanied by a chime.
  • Steering effort increases noticeably, especially at low speeds or when parking.
  • The steering may feel intermittent, with assist cutting in and out.
  • A message such as 'Power Steering Assist Fault' may appear in the driver information center.
  • In some cases, the vehicle may enter a reduced-power mode or limit other functions.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the fault is intermittent.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. A loose, corroded, or damaged ground connection for the EPS motor or control module.
  2. A damaged or shorted wire in the motor power or ground circuit, often due to chafing or rodent damage.
  3. A faulty EPS motor, such as worn brushes or an internal short, causing excessive current draw.
  4. A failed EPS control module, particularly if it has internal circuit faults.
  5. A blown high-current fuse or a faulty relay that supplies power to the EPS motor.
  6. Water intrusion into the EPS motor or connector, leading to corrosion and circuit faults.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Check for any related technical service bulletins (TSBs) or recalls for the vehicle's EPS system, as some faults are addressed by updated software or revised components.
  2. Inspect the EPS motor and control module connectors for corrosion, loose pins, or water intrusion, and clean or repair as needed.
  3. Perform a voltage drop test on the motor power and ground circuits to identify excessive resistance or poor connections.
  4. Check the high-current fuse and relay that supply the EPS motor, replacing them if faulty.
  5. Use a scan tool to command the EPS motor and observe live data for current draw and circuit voltage to isolate the fault.
  6. If the circuit tests good, test the EPS motor directly by applying power and ground to verify operation, and replace the motor if it fails.
  7. If all other components test good, suspect the EPS control module and follow the manufacturer's diagnostic flow for module replacement and programming.

What the code does not always mean

  • A low battery or charging system fault can cause the EPS module to set this code because the motor circuit voltage drops below threshold during high-demand steering maneuvers.
  • The code can be set by a momentary short or open that occurs only when the steering wheel is turned to a specific position, so a wiggle test of the harness while turning the wheel is often necessary.
  • Aftermarket accessories wired into the EPS circuit, such as dash cams or phone chargers tapped into the wrong fuse, can introduce noise or voltage drops that trigger this code.
  • Some vehicles require a steering angle sensor calibration or EPS module relearn after any repair, and failing to perform it can cause the code to return even if the hardware is fixed.
  • The EPS motor circuit includes a current sensor that may be integrated into the control module; a fault in that sensor can set this code without any problem in the motor itself.

Can I keep driving with C0725?

You can usually drive the vehicle to a repair shop, but be prepared for increased steering effort, especially at low speeds, and avoid sudden evasive maneuvers. If the steering assist cuts out completely, pull over safely and have the vehicle towed to prevent loss of control.

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.

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