What does it mean?
C1144 is a Chassis (ABS, traction control, steering) fault code. It indicates: Steering Angle Sensor Incomplete Adjustment .
Symptoms
- Stability control warning lamp stays on and the system remains disabled
- Message centre reports that the stability or steering system needs service
- Fault present from the moment the vehicle is started, without any driving
- Live data shows a steering angle offset even with the wheel straight
- Stability control may intervene incorrectly if it operates at all
- Code returns as soon as it is cleared without a calibration
Likely causes
- Calibration never carried out after a battery disconnect, module replacement or steering repair
- Procedure started but aborted, for example because the ignition was switched off too early
- Conditions for the learn not met, such as the wheels not perfectly straight or the vehicle not level
- Wheel alignment out of specification, so the sensor cannot find a valid zero
- Steering wheel refitted off centre after column or airbag work
- Low battery voltage during the calibration attempt
- Faulty sensor or clock spring that cannot hold the learned value
How to fix it
- Park on a flat, level surface with the wheels pointing straight ahead
- Check tyre pressures and confirm the front wheel alignment is within specification
- Confirm the steering wheel is centred and correctly fitted on the column
- Make sure battery voltage is good and keep a charger on the vehicle if needed
- Run the sensor zero point calibration with the scan tool and follow every step to the end
- Drive the vehicle as the relearn requires, then confirm the angle reads near zero
- Investigate the sensor, clock spring or wiring only if the calibration will not complete