OBD-II code · Chassis

C061C Variable Effort Steering Actuator Control Circuit/Open

Open circuit on variable effort steering (VES) actuator. VES varies steering assist with vehicle speed.

Is it safe to drive with C061C?

The car may go into limp mode (reduced power). Get it diagnosed before a long trip.

Common causes

  • Most likelyWiring break
  • Less likelyPin pushed back out of connector body
  • Less likelyCracked solder joint inside the module or sensor

Symptoms

  • ABS warning light on
  • ESC/stability control deactivated
  • Possible reduced brake assist
  • Speedometer may behave erratically

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Medium
DIY friendly
Best left to a mechanic
Typical labour
0.5–3 h
Emissions test
Usually unaffected
Parts involved
Ves Actuator

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.