i have a 2008 grand caravan with the 3.8L. unfortunately i haven't been very happy with this van from day one. this is the latest of many problems that i've had with this van (bought it "certified" used...it's now out of warranty of course). this is the first problem that i'm not certain of how to fix. i have a couple of dashboard lights that are now lit up 100% of the time. 1st is ESP/BAS, and the 2nd is the traction control light. i guess the first question is what does BAS stand for? i'm familiar with ESP, but not BAS. it does have a DTC. it is ABS fault C123F, the description is "Steering Angle Sensor Comparative Performance".

is that a bad clockspring? or something else?

here are the 2 dash lights, for reference.

Attachment 24076

 

How long has the lamp been on? The reason the lamp is on for the traction and ABS is because of the steering angle sensor. Yes its also known as a clockspring. What we do at the dealership is hook up the scanner and watch the changes when turning the steering wheel. If the readings are not within specs, we replace the steering angle sensor and clear the codes.

 

that's what i was afraid of...

the light has been on for a few months, i just didn't want to deal with it during the cold months. i have access to CDA, so i can check my own codes and check any readings (and clear faults later on), but i don't know the procedure for checking steering sensor readings. can you tell me how to get to that section in CDA and tell me what would count as "in spec"? also, since i've never done a clockspring, what is the procedure? i know you need to disconnect the batter and remove the airbag...but i'm not sure how to do that without setting the airbag off. and, from what i remember hearing/reading somewhere, the clockspring can be difficult to either remove or install. what is the procedure there?

and what does BAS stand for?

 

BAS is the Brake Assist System. During a panic stop, the system detects a fast application of brakes then applies full brake pressure to stop you in a much shorter distance then you could ever accomplish on your own..