C0710: How to Diagnose & Fix — Steering Position Sensor
3 vehicles · 1 makes · $400-$2,500 repair
How to diagnose and fix C0710: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Chevrolet Cobalt · 2005–2010
The Cobalt equipped with electric power steering (EPS) is subject to a recall for sudden loss of power steering assist while driving. The EPS motor can fail without warning at any speed, requiring significantly more effort to steer the vehicle. The 2005 model year alone has more than 1,100 NHTSA complaints listing the steering system. GM issued a recall in March 2010, but some owners report the issue recurring even after the recall repair.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden loss of power steering assist
- Steering becomes very heavy without warning
- Power steering warning light illuminated
- Steering effort increases in cold weather
- Intermittent power steering that cuts in and out
How to Fix
Check VIN for recall eligibility. Dealers replace the electric power steering motor free of charge under the recall. If power steering fails while driving, pull over safely - the vehicle can still be steered but requires much more physical effort. Report recurring failures to NHTSA.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet SS · 2014–2016
The Chevrolet SS (imported Holden Commodore VF) suffers from electric power steering failure caused by fretting corrosion of the connector between the EPS module and torque sensor. When corrosion degrades the electrical connection, power steering assist is suddenly lost, requiring significant physical effort to steer the vehicle. This is especially dangerous at highway speeds. GM recalled approximately 6,204 vehicles for this issue.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden loss of power steering assist while driving
- Steering becomes extremely heavy with no warning
- Power steering warning light illuminated
- Intermittent power steering assist that cuts in and out
- EPS fault codes stored in steering module
How to Fix
Contact Chevrolet dealer to verify recall eligibility for your VIN. The recall remedy (17V-382) involves inspecting the steering gear assembly and, if it is not the latest part, replacing it with a new unit fitted with gold-plated terminals that resist corrosion; vehicles closed by inspection only may be covered by follow-up recall 19V-801, which replaces the steering gear. This repair is free under the recall. If out of recall coverage, the steering rack replacement costs $1,500-$2,500.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (2)
Chevrolet Malibu · 2013–2024
The 2013+ Malibu uses an electric power steering (EPS) system with a column-mounted motor that is prone to failure. The motor develops internal faults causing intermittent or complete loss of power steering assist, making the car extremely difficult to steer at low speeds. GM issued Preliminary Information PI1521B covering loss of power steering assist and the "Service Power Steering" message on 2013-2015 Malibu and 2016 Malibu Limited, noting a blown power steering fuse as one cause. The steering column module and torque sensor can also fail, triggering a "Service Power Steering" message on the DIC.
Common Symptoms
- "Service Power Steering" message on DIC
- Steering suddenly becomes very heavy
- Intermittent loss and return of power assist
- Steering wheel jerks or pulls to one side
- Warning light clears after restart but returns
How to Fix
Have the EPS motor and torque sensor diagnosed with a scan tool — the module stores specific fault codes. Replacement of the EPS motor assembly costs $400-$800 for parts and $200-$400 for labor. In some cases, a software recalibration of the EPS module resolves intermittent faults. Check for applicable GM TSBs, as some vehicles may qualify for extended warranty coverage. Never ignore a power steering warning — sudden loss of assist at highway speed is a safety hazard.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet Malibu · 2008–2012
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C0710 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does C0710 mean?
C0710 stands for "Steering Position Sensor." C0710 is a chassis code indicating a fault with the steering position (steering angle) sensor, which tells stability control and related systems how far and how fast you are turning the wheel. The control module compares this signal to other inputs, and when the steering sensor reading is missing, out of range, or implausible, it sets this code. You may lose stability control, traction control, or electronic steering assist, with corresponding warning lights. It points to the steering angle sensor or its circuit rather than a mechanical steering part.
What are the most common causes of C0710?
The most common causes of C0710 are: Faulty steering angle/position sensor, Steering angle sensor needs calibration after service, Damaged clockspring affecting the sensor circuit, Wiring or connector fault at the sensor, Loss of power or ground to the sensor, Communication fault between the sensor and stability module, Worn steering column components affecting sensor reading. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C0710?
Repair costs for C0710 range from $400 to $2,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by C0710?
Au7o has documented C0710 across 3 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Chevrolet.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.