C1259 Steering angle sensor signal error (Hyundai)

C1259 angle sensor signal error (Hyundai)

Severity not verified — if the car runs badly, have it inspected

The sources describe the fault and lamps but do not rate drive safety; steering and stability systems are safety-critical, so have it checked.

Safety-critical system: explanation only, no DIY steps. Source: how we rate severity

C1259 in short

On Hyundai vehicles C1259 means the steering angle sensor signal is wrong in the motor-driven power steering system. Hyundai's table says to reset the zero point, erase the code and check the connector, and replace the column if it returns. An Elantra bulletin uses a software update.

The steering angle sensor reports where the wheel is pointing to the power steering and stability systems. If its signal is wrong, C1259 is stored and warning lamps can come on.

Hyundai's service table lists resetting the zero point and erasing the code, checking the connector, and replacing the column and housing if it comes back. Bulletin TSB-09-01-008 describes an EPS software update for lamps that come on with C1259 (EPS) and C1260 (ESC) on the Elantra.

Steering is safety-critical, so this page gives no do-it-yourself steps.

Pick your make

C1259 is a manufacturer-specific code: its meaning depends on who built the car.

Other makes: meaning not verified. Check with a scan tool that reads manufacturer definitions.

Most likely causes

  1. Angle sensor needing a zero-point reset

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    Hyundai's table says to reset the zero point and erase the code first.
    What would change this
    Rises if a reset clears the code. Falls if it returns.
    How to test the power steering control module

  2. EPS software needing an update (Elantra)

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    Hyundai TSB-09-01-008 prescribes an EPS software update for lamps with C1259 and C1260.
    What would change this
    Rises on an Elantra covered by the bulletin. Falls if software is current.
    How to test the power steering control module

  3. Steering column and housing

    Supported by vehicle data
    Why it ranks here
    Hyundai's table says to replace the column and housing if the code returns after the reset and connector check.
    What would change this
    Rises if the code returns after a reset. Falls if the reset holds.
    How to test the power steering control module

What to test first

Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.

  1. Ask a shop to read the codes, reset the angle sensor zero point, check the connector and look for a Hyundai software update for your VIN.

    Best left to a shop

    Warning:Steering faults are safety-critical; leave diagnosis and repair to a qualified shop.

Symptoms

  • Power steering or stability warning lamp on
  • Steering feels different or heavier Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.

How to fix

This is a safety-critical system, so we explain the code but don't give repair steps. Have it inspected by a qualified technician.

On your vehicle

Hyundai

  • 2009 · Elantra

    Supported by vehicle data

    Hyundai TSB-09-01-008 prescribes an EPS software update for warning lamps with C1259 and C1260. Whether the bulletin is still current is not verified.

  • TSB-09-01-008Status unverified

    EPS software update, DTCs C1259 (EPS) and C1260 (ESC)

    2009elantra · NHTSA 10029150

    Updates EPS software for warning lamps that come on with C1259 and C1260.

    We couldn't confirm whether this bulletin is still current, so it doesn't count as confirmation.

  • C1260Steering angle sensor signal error (Hyundai)

    Same system Supported by vehicle data

    Hyundai's table lists C1259 and C1260 as angle sensor signal errors, and the Elantra bulletin covers both.

All Power steering and steering sensors codes

C1259 questions

Is it safe to drive with C1259?

Steering may feel different and stability control may be off. Have it checked soon and avoid long trips until it is.

Sources and review

  1. Hyundai Venue (QX) repair procedures: Motor Driven Power Steering DTC table — Hyundai Motor Company (service manual mirror at hvenueqx.com)
  2. Hyundai TSB-09-01-008: EPS software update, DTCs C1259 (EPS) and C1260 (ESC) — Hyundai Motor America via NHTSA
Last reviewed
Written by
Saurabh K.
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