C1260 on Audi: How to Diagnose & Fix
Steering Angle Sensor Circuit / Signal (manufacturer-specific)
10 Audi models · 10 documented issues
C1260 on Audi by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
Audi TSB 2059363/4 covers an air-suspension malfunction on 2020-2024 S8 vehicles when the suspension controller stores C1260F0 for no communication with the compressor control unit or U112100 with symptom code 262400 for a missing message. The bulletin identifies the electrical path between level-control module J775 and compressor-control unit J1135, rather than a leaking strut or worn compressor.
Common Symptoms
- Air suspension malfunction warning
- C1260F0 or U112100 symptom 262400 in the suspension controller
How to Fix
Read the suspension-controller DTC and symptom code, then inspect wiring, terminals and connectors between J775 and J1135 exactly as Audi specifies. If the fault is passive/sporadic, clear it and verify operation. If it remains active/static after the electrical inspection and key cycle, follow Audi testing for J1135 replacement. Diagnose vehicle sag or leak-down separately; these fault codes alone do not call for air struts, a compressor or a coil-conversion kit.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipAsk the technician to record the full suspension DTC and symptom code and whether it is passive/sporadic or active/static before any part is approved.
Sources for this issue (1)
Audi TSB 2059363/6 applies to air-suspension-equipped 2021-2025 RS7 vehicles when the instrument cluster reports an air-suspension malfunction and suspension control unit J775 stores C1260F0 (no communication) or U112100 (missing message), both with symptom code 262400. The bulletin identifies communication between J775 and compressor-control unit J1135; it does not establish a universal air-strut, compressor or complete-system wear failure.
Common Symptoms
- Air-suspension malfunction warning in the instrument cluster
How to Fix
Inspect the wiring and connectors between J775 and J1135 before replacing a component. For a first passive/sporadic occurrence, clear the fault and release the vehicle. If the fault is active/static after wiring and connector inspection, or the same passive/sporadic fault returns a second time, replace J1135 using current Audi repair and parts information. Audi notes that improved J1135 software remains under development.
Sources for this issue (1)
On SQ5 vehicles equipped with air suspension, Audi documents an air-suspension warning accompanied by C1260F0 or U112100 with symptom code 262400 in suspension control module J775. The bulletin concerns communication with compressor control module J1135, not leaking air springs or failed dampers.
Common Symptoms
- Air-suspension malfunction warning or air-spring symbol in the instrument cluster
How to Fix
Inspect the wiring and connector contacts between J775 and J1135 first. If no wiring fault is found, clear a first passive or sporadic fault and release the vehicle. Replace J1135 for an active or static fault, or when the same passive or sporadic fault returns a second time, following Audi workshop information and VIN-specific ETKA data.
Sources for this issue (1)
On 2020-2025 SQ7 vehicles equipped with air suspension, Audi documents an air-suspension warning accompanied by C1260F0 or U112100 with symptom code 262400 in suspension control module J775. The bulletin concerns communication with compressor control module J1135 and states that improved J1135 software is under development as the production solution; it does not promise an owner-installed update or replace the bulletin's diagnostic steps.
Common Symptoms
- Air-suspension malfunction warning or air-spring symbol in the instrument cluster
How to Fix
Inspect the wiring and connector contacts between J775 and J1135 first. If no wiring fault is found, clear a first passive or sporadic fault and release the vehicle. Replace J1135 for an active or static fault, or when the same passive or sporadic fault returns a second time, following Audi workshop information and VIN-specific ETKA data. Do not replace an air spring, strut or compressor assembly solely from the warning.
Sources for this issue (1)
Audi TSB 2059363/5 covers an e-tron air-suspension malfunction when suspension controller J775 stores C1260F0 for no communication with compressor-control unit J1135 or U112100 with symptom code 262400 for a missing message. This is an electrical communication path; the bulletin does not establish leaking air lines, worn struts, height-sensor failure, compressor burnout or ball-joint wear as one common defect.
Common Symptoms
- Air-suspension malfunction warning
- C1260F0 or U112100 symptom 262400 in suspension controller J775
How to Fix
Read the complete suspension DTC and symptom code, then inspect wiring, terminals and connectors between J775 and J1135 as Audi directs. If the fault is passive/sporadic on its first occurrence, clear it and verify operation. Replace J1135 if the fault is active/static after the electrical inspection or if C1260F0 or U112100 with symptom 262400 returns a second time as passive/sporadic. Diagnose vehicle sag, leak-down or compressor noise separately; do not order a compressor, air-supply unit or suspension parts from this warning alone.
Owner tips & cautions
- TipAsk for the full DTC, symptom code and passive/sporadic versus active/static status before authorizing a control unit or mechanical suspension part.
Sources for this issue (1)
Audi TSB 2059363/6 applies to air-suspension-equipped 2019-2025 Q8 vehicles when the instrument cluster reports an air-suspension malfunction and suspension control unit J775 stores C1260F0 for no communication or U112100 for a missing message, both with symptom code 262400. The bulletin identifies communication with compressor-control unit J1135; it does not establish universal air-spring, strut or compressor wear.
Common Symptoms
- Air-suspension malfunction warning in the instrument cluster
How to Fix
Inspect the wiring and connector contacts between J775 and J1135 before replacing a component. For a first passive or sporadic occurrence, clear the fault and release the vehicle. If the same passive fault returns a second time, or the fault is active or static after wiring inspection, Audi directs replacement of J1135 under current repair and parts information. Do not buy struts, springs, a compressor or a conversion kit solely from this warning.
Sources for this issue (1)
C1260 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 C1260 mean on a Audi?
C1260 stands for "Steering Angle Sensor Circuit / Signal (manufacturer-specific)." C1260 is a chassis code most commonly defined as a fault in the steering angle sensor (SAS) circuit or signal, used widely on Hyundai/Kia and GM vehicles (some platforms apply it to a wheel-speed comparison fault instead). The ABS/stability-control module relies on the SAS to know the steering wheel's angle and direction for electronic stability control calculations, and it sets this code when that signal is missing, corrupt, or illogical. The result is typically disabled stability/traction control with warning lights. Because the exact definition varies by make, confirm against the vehicle's service data. On Audi it is documented across 10 models: S8, RS7, SQ5, SQ7, e-tron, Q8, RS Q8, RS6, SQ8, A8.
What are the most common causes of C1260?
The most common causes of C1260 are: Faulty steering angle sensor, Steering angle sensor needs recalibration/initialization, Worn steering coupler/clock spring (common on Hyundai/Kia), Damaged wiring or connector to the SAS, CAN communication fault between SAS and ABS module, Faulty ABS/ESC control module, Recent steering or suspension work without recalibration. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix C1260 on a Audi?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Audi model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
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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.