What Does C1442 Mean?
This code indicates the steering angle sensor Phase B circuit is not producing a detectable signal. Phase B is the second quadrature channel of the steering angle encoder, and together with Phase A, it provides both rotational position and direction data. When Phase B alone is lost, the module may still detect rotation via Phase A but cannot determine direction of turn. The ESC system will be disabled as accurate bidirectional steering data is essential for yaw rate calculations.
Safety Warning
Without Phase B data, the stability control system cannot determine steering direction and will be disabled. This removes a critical safety net during emergency maneuvers, especially in wet or icy conditions where stability control prevents spinouts.
Common Causes
35%
Steering angle sensor internal Phase B encoder element failure or contamination of the optical disc
25%
Clock spring ribbon cable partial failure affecting only the Phase B trace while Phase A remains intact
25%
Intermittent open or high resistance in the Phase B signal wire due to connector terminal back-out or corrosion
15%
ABS/ESC module Phase B input driver circuit failure
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Check whether C1441 (Phase A) is also present. If both phases are missing, suspect a common cause such as a disconnected sensor or completely failed clock spring. If only Phase B is faulted, the issue is isolated to that specific circuit.
2
Step 2: Backprobe the Phase B signal wire at the ABS module connector while slowly turning the steering wheel. Use an oscilloscope to verify a clean square wave pattern. Compare amplitude and frequency with the Phase A signal, which should be identical but offset by 90 degrees.
3
Step 3: Disconnect the steering angle sensor and measure continuity on the Phase B signal wire from sensor connector to ABS module connector. Check for open circuit or high resistance (should be less than 2 ohms end-to-end).
4
Step 4: Inspect the steering angle sensor mounting for looseness or misalignment that could cause the Phase B pickup to lose registration with the encoder disc. Verify the sensor is properly indexed to the steering column.
5
Step 5: After repair, perform steering angle sensor calibration using the factory scan tool. Verify both Phase A and Phase B signals are present and that the steering angle reads 0 degrees with the wheels pointed straight ahead.
Estimated Repair Cost
$250 - $900
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
This code indicates the steering angle sensor Phase B circuit is not producing a detectable signal. Phase B is the second quadrature channel of the steering angle encoder, and together with Phase A, it provides both rotational position and direction data. When Phase B alone is lost, the module may s...
The most common cause of C1442 (Steering Phase B Circuit Signal Is Not Sensed) is: Steering angle sensor internal Phase B encoder element failure or contamination of the optical disc
Typical repair costs for C1442 range from $250 to $900, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Without Phase B data, the stability control system cannot determine steering direction and will be disabled. This removes a critical safety net during emergency maneuvers, especially in wet or icy conditions where stability control prevents spinouts.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to C1442 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Chassis
System
Electronic Stability Control / Steering
Difficulty
Type
Manufacturer
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