Test Description

2008 Pontiac Grand Prix BaseSECTION Test Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Buick LaCrosse and 2007 Buick Allure. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 2:  This step tests if the Commanded and Feedback Current parameters are within specification in their active state.
  2. 3:  Perform the VES test located under Special Functions. This test may indicate if the VES actuator is mechanically bound.
  3. 4:  This step tests if the resistance of the VES actuator is within specification.
  4. 7:  This step tests the control circuit of the VES actuator for a short to ground.
  5. 13:  Perform the setup procedure after EBCM replacement.
DTC C0450

Step Action Values Yes No
Schematic Reference: Steering Assist Schematics 
Connector End View Reference: Steering Assist Connector End Views 
1 Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? - Go to Step 2  Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information
  1. Start the engine.
  2. With a scan tool, observe the VES Commanded Current and VES Feedback Current Data parameters in the VES data list for the EBCM.
Does the scan tool display the VES Commanded and Feedback Current Data parameters are within 0.03 amps of each other and within specified range?
0.90-1.00 A Go to Step 3  Go to Step 4 
Using the scan tool, select F1 VES Test.
Does the scan tool indicate Test Passed?
- Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems Go to Step 4 
  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the variable effort steering (VES) actuator harness connector.
  3. Measure the resistance of the VES actuator.
Does the resistance measure within specified range?
2.5-10 Ω Go to Step 5  Go to Step 12 
5 Test the VES actuator and actuator harness for a short to ground. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Was a short to ground located?
- Go to Step 6  Go to Step 7 
6 Visually inspect the actuator harness for any cut, chaffed or damaged wires.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 14 
Test the control circuit of the VES actuator for a short to ground. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 8 
8 Test the control circuit of the VES actuator for an open or short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 9 
9 Test the return circuit of the VES actuator for a short to ground. Refer to Testing for Short to Ground and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 10 
10 Test the return circuit of the VES actuator for an open or a short to voltage. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 11 
11 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the electronic brake control module (EBCM). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 13 
12 Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the VES actuator. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections andConnector Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 15  Go to Step 14 
13 
IMPORTANT: Always perform the setup procedure for the EBCM.
  1. Replace the EBCM. Refer to Electronic Brake Control Module Replacement in Antilock Brake System.
  2. Perform the setup procedure for the EBCM.
Did you complete the replacement?
- Go to Step 15  -
14 Replace the VES actuator. Refer to Power Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
Did you complete the replacement?
- Go to Step 15  -
15
  1. Clear the DTCs with the scan tool.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC.
Does DTC C0450 reset?
- Go to Step 2  System OK
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.