C0710 on 2012-2016 Chevrolet Silverado: StabiliTrak and Steering Sensor Fixes

What's Unique About the 2012-2016 Chevrolet SILVERADO

This year range covers two Silverado generations: the GMT900 (2012-2013) and the K2XX (2014-2016). The GMT900 trucks are notorious for fretting corrosion on the steering angle sensor's electrical connector, a problem so common that GM issued TSB PI0639C advising technicians to service the connector rather than replace the sensor. This corrosion appears as small, dark smudges on the connector terminals. While the newer K2XX trucks can also suffer from this, they are also subject to broader electrical issues outlined in other TSBs, where a bad BCM ground (G218) or a pinched wiring harness can trigger C0710 along with a host of other seemingly unrelated electrical problems.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle. 👇

Generation note: The 2012-2016 range includes the GMT900 (2012-2013 models and 2014 HD models) and the K2XX (2014-2016 1500 models). The GMT900 is especially known for the steering angle sensor connector fretting issue (TSB PI0639C). The K2XX generation has TSBs (PIT5405C, PIT5288A) that also point to BCM ground and wiring harness issues as potential causes.

Symptoms You May Notice

• "Service StabiliTrak" or "Service Stability" message in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
• Traction control and/or ABS warning light illuminated.
• In rare cases of broader electrical faults, other symptoms like a dead battery, inoperative rear windows, or other warning lights may appear. [Bulletin #PIT5288A]
• On K2XX models, the radio or instrument panel cluster may flash or go blank intermittently, especially when turning at low speeds, which points to the G218 ground issue. [16, 17, 25, Bulletin #PIT5405C]

Most Likely Causes

1. Poor Connection at Steering Angle Sensor Connector 🔴 High Probability → Shop Steering Angle Sensor Fretting corrosion and excessive clearance in the connector are well-documented issues, especially on GMT900 models with telescoping steering columns. TSB PI0639C directly addresses this.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the sensor connector at the base of the steering column for looseness or dark smudges on the terminals (fretting corrosion). Wiggling the connector while monitoring live sensor data on a scan tool may cause the signal to drop out, confirming a bad connection.
   Typical fix: Disconnect the connector, clean the terminals with electronics cleaner and a small nylon brush, apply dielectric grease (GM Part #12377900), and secure the connection. TSB PI0639C recommends adding a small piece of adhesive shim stock to the flat surface of the male connector to prevent movement.
   Est. part cost: $5-$20
2. Faulty Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) 🟡 Medium Probability → Shop Steering Angle Sensor The sensor itself can fail electronically over time, though it is less common than the connector issue. This should be suspected if cleaning the connector does not resolve the code.
   How to confirm: Use a scan tool to monitor the sensor's live data while turning the steering wheel. The angle reading should change smoothly from approximately -550 to +550 degrees and not be stuck, jump erratically, or go blank. If live data is absent or frozen, the sensor has likely failed.
   Typical fix: Replace the steering angle sensor and perform a calibration with a compatible scan tool. The new sensor often comes with a locking pin to hold its position during installation; this pin must be removed after the sensor is seated.
   Est. part cost: $60-$150
3. Poor Body Control Module (BCM) Ground at G218 ⚪ Low Probability TSB #PIT5405C notes that on 2015-2016 models, the dash insulator mat can get trapped under the G218 ground terminal, causing high resistance and numerous electrical faults, including C0710. This is a known issue discussed by owners in forums.
   How to confirm: Inspect the G218 ground, located on the driver's side A-pillar frame behind the dash/speaker area, to see if the insulator mat is interfering with the connection or if the nut is loose.
   Typical fix: Remove the ground nut and eyelet, cut or pull away the interfering mat, sand the contact point to bare metal, apply dielectric grease, and securely retighten the ground connection.
   Est. part cost: $0
4. Damaged Instrument Panel (I/P) Wire Harness ⚪ Low Probability TSB #PIT5288A indicates that the left I/P wire harness can be pinched or chafed near its mounting bracket on 2015 models, causing shorts that trigger C0710 and other codes. [1, Bulletin #PIT5288A]
   How to confirm: Inspect the wiring harness in the left instrument panel area, particularly near the parking brake mechanism and harness brackets, for signs of pinching, chafing, or damage.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged section of the wiring harness by splicing the affected wires and protecting the harness from further damage.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Incorrect Steering Angle Sensor Calibration: → Shop Steering Angle Sensor

Diagnosis Steps

1. Read all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from all modules using a capable scan tool. Note if C0710 appears with other codes.
2. If only C0710 and/or C0455 are present, start by inspecting the Steering Angle Sensor electrical connector at the base of the steering column. Check for looseness, corrosion, or backed-out pins.
3. Service the connector by cleaning it with electronics cleaner and a nylon brush, then applying dielectric grease. Per TSB PI0639C, consider adding shim stock to tighten the connection.
4. Clear codes and test drive. If the code returns, use a scan tool to monitor the Steering Angle Sensor's live data. Turn the wheel lock-to-lock and verify the angle reading changes smoothly and isn't frozen.
5. If multiple U-codes and B-codes are present with C0710 (especially on 2014+ models), inspect the BCM ground G218 for interference from the dash mat, per TSB PIT5405C. The ground is on the driver-side A-pillar frame.
6. Also inspect the left I/P wiring harness for pinching or damage near the parking brake area, per TSB PIT5288A.
7. If the connector and wiring are confirmed good but the sensor data is still faulty or absent, the Steering Angle Sensor itself is the likely cause and should be replaced.
8. After replacement, perform the Steering Angle Sensor calibration procedure using a compatible scan tool. This typically involves turning the wheel lock-to-lock with the engine running.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Steering Angle Sensor (OEM #15886733 (GMT900), 13590209 (K2XX)) — This sensor fails if its internal electronics wear out, though it should only be replaced after confirming the connector and wiring are good. Part number varies by generation. 15886733 is for GMT900 (2012-13). 13590209 is for K2XX (2014-16).
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Dorman
  OEM price range: $70-$145
  Aftermarket price range: $55-$100
• Dielectric Grease (OEM #12377900) — Recommended by GM TSBs to prevent moisture and fretting corrosion at the sensor connector, which is the most common point of failure.
  Trusted brands: Permatex, ACDelco
  OEM price range: $15-$25
  Aftermarket price range: $5-$10

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• C0455 — This code for the 'Steering Position Sensor Circuit' is often set alongside C0710, as they both relate to the same sensor and are frequently caused by the same connector issue. [8, 14, Bulletin #PIT4225F, Bulletin #PI0639C]
• U0126 — This 'Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor Module' code points to a more severe connection or wiring failure, such as the issues described in TSBs PIT5405C and PIT5288A. [23, Bulletin #PIT5288A]
• U-codes (U0073, U0100, U0121, etc.) — A large number of communication (U-prefix) codes appearing with C0710 strongly suggests a systemic electrical problem, like the poor BCM ground at G218 identified in TSB PIT5405C.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• PI0639C: Advises servicing the steering angle sensor connector for fretting corrosion instead of replacing the sensor.
• PIT5405C: Details how a poor BCM ground (G218) can cause C0710 and a multitude of other electrical issues on K2XX trucks.
• PIT5288A: Points to a pinched I/P wiring harness as a potential cause for C0710 and other electrical faults on 2015 models.
• PIT4225F: Mentions that C0710 may appear with or without C0455 when a Service Stability message is displayed.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Fretting corrosion at the steering angle sensor connector is a widely documented problem, especially on the GMT900 (2012-2013) trucks, as detailed in TSB PI0639C.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Steering Angle Sensor Analog Signal Voltage — expected: 2.5 V when steering wheel is centered. Varies between ~0.4 V and ~4.6 V when turned.. Failure: Voltage is stuck, does not change when turning the wheel, or is outside the 0.4-4.6 V range.
• Steering Angle Sensor Live Data Range (Scan Tool) — expected: Smoothly varies from approximately -550° to +550° when turning the wheel lock-to-lock.. Failure: Data is frozen, jumps erratically, or does not update.
• 5V Reference Circuit Voltage at SAS Connector — expected: 4.8 V to 5.2 V. Failure: Voltage outside this range indicates a problem with the EBCM or the wiring between the EBCM and the sensor.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• C0710 5A: Steering Position Signal Plausibility Failure. This means the sensor's reading is illogical compared to data from other sensors (like wheel speed or yaw rate). It can be caused by a bad sensor, severe wheel misalignment, or even mismatched tires causing the steering wheel to be held off-center. (see via GM GDS2/Tech2 or a professional-grade scan tool with manufacturer-specific software.)
• C0710 42: Steering Wheel Angle Signal Calibration Not Programmed. This byte is set when the sensor has not been calibrated or the calibration has been lost. It is a direct command to perform the SAS relearn procedure. (see via GM GDS2/Tech2 or a professional-grade scan tool with manufacturer-specific software.)
• C0710 71: Invalid Serial Data Received. This points to a communication or data corruption issue on the CAN bus between the steering angle sensor and the EBCM, often caused by wiring problems like connector fretting or a bad ground. (see via GM GDS2/Tech2 or a professional-grade scan tool with manufacturer-specific software.)
• C0710 17: Steering Position Signal Shape/Waveform Failure. This indicates the signal is malformed or out of its expected voltage range (less than 0.4V or greater than 4.6V), often pointing to an internal sensor failure or a wiring short/open. (see via GM GDS2/Tech2 or a professional-grade scan tool with manufacturer-specific software.)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GDS2 / High-End Bidirectional Scanner (e.g., Autel): Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Learn / Calibration — This function is required after replacing the steering angle sensor, EBCM, or performing a wheel alignment to zero the sensor's position. The procedure typically involves starting the engine, turning the wheel lock-to-lock, and centering it to allow the EBCM to learn the new sensor's parameters.
• GDS2: PSCM (Power Steering Control Module) Reprogramming — In specific cases outlined by GM, a calibration error in the PSCM can cause DTCs (including those related to the SAS) to remain current even after the fault is fixed. Reprogramming the PSCM with the latest software via TIS2WEB may be necessary to resolve persistent, non-clearing codes.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G218 — On the driver's side A-pillar frame, located behind the dash panel and often near or behind the driver's side speaker. Access requires removing the side dash panel and lower knee bolster.. This is a critical ground for the Body Control Module (BCM). TSB PIT5405C identifies that sound insulation material can get trapped under the ground lug, causing high resistance and a cascade of electrical faults and communication codes, including C0710.
• Steering Angle Sensor Connector — Directly on the steering angle sensor, which is mounted on the steering column, typically accessible after removing the lower dash/knee bolster panel.. This is the most common failure point for C0710 on this platform due to fretting corrosion and a loose fit, as documented in TSB PI0639C. The signal from the sensor is lost here.
• Steering Angle Sensor Wiring (K2XX models) — The sensor communicates via the High Speed GMLAN Serial Data Bus.. On 2014+ models, the SAS sends its data over the CAN bus to the Power Steering Control Module and the EBCM. A wiring diagram for a 2014 Silverado shows the SAS connects to the Power Steering Control Module, which then communicates with the EBCM. This means a fault could be in the wiring between the SAS and PSCM, or the PSCM itself.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Tahoe Yukon Forum (2012 Yukon (platform mate)) — Service StabiliTrak and traction control lights with code C0710.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Multiple dealership visits could not find the cause.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The problem began after a rack and pinion replacement. A technician discovered the steering wheel was misaligned by one full turn. The fix was to disconnect the steering shaft, rotate it to the correct 'zero' position, and reconnect it. The root cause was a major mechanical misalignment, not a faulty part.
• Tahoe Yukon Forum (Year not specified, GM SUV) — Service StabiliTrak and C0710 after getting a new tire.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Dealership could not diagnose the cause over several visits.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The truck had a mismatched tire that caused a constant pull to one side. To drive straight, the owner had to hold the steering wheel at an angle. This created a plausibility failure (C0710 5A) because the steering angle did not match the vehicle's direction of travel according to wheel speed sensors. Replacing the tires with a matching set and performing an alignment resolved the code.
• Reddit r/Silverado (2014-2018 Silverado (K2XX)) — Intermittent "Service Stabilitrak" message, flickering dash lights, power steering assist reduction, and engine stalling when turning at low speeds.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Testing the alternator and battery, which both checked out fine.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The owner identified the G218 ground issue. They accessed the ground point behind the driver's side dash, found the sound insulation mat interfering with the connection, pulled the mat away, and tightened the ground nut. This permanently resolved all the electrical issues.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2012-2013 (GMT900): These models are most susceptible to the fretting corrosion at the steering angle sensor connector, as detailed in TSB PI0639C. The diagnostic approach should heavily prioritize inspecting and servicing this connector before any part replacement.
• 2014-2016 (K2XX): While still susceptible to the connector issue, these models are also known for the G218 grounding problem (TSB PIT5405C) and I/P harness chafing (TSB PIT5288A). A cluster of unrelated electrical codes alongside C0710 on these years points strongly toward the G218 ground.