Steering Torque Sensor Malfunction
2007-2012 Nissan Altima 2.5L I4
Description
The electric power steering torque sensor has detected a general malfunction.
Symptoms
- Power steering warning light
- Heavy or erratic steering
- EPS assist reduced or absent
- Stability control disabled
Common Causes
- Faulty torque sensor in steering column
- Wiring damage
- Connector corrosion
- Steering column impact damage
Diagnostic Steps
- Read torque sensor values at rest (should be near zero)
- Turn wheel and verify smooth sensor response
- Inspect steering column connector
- Check for steering column damage
- Test sensor voltage range
Repair Notes
Replace steering torque sensor assembly. May require steering column replacement on some vehicles.
Related Codes
Other Chassis Codes
- C0021LF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0022RF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0023LR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0024RR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0025LF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0026RF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0027LR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0028RR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0035Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
- C0036Left Front Wheel Speed Signal Erratic
C0081 on Other Vehicles
Nissan 200SX
1995-1998 1.6L I4 GA16DE
Nissan 200SX SE-R
1995-1998 2.0L I4 SR20DE
Nissan 240SX
1995-1998 2.4L I4 KA24DE
Nissan 300ZX
1990-1996 3.0L V6 VG30DE
Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo
1990-1996 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 VG30DETT
Nissan 350Z
2003-2006 3.5L V6 VQ35DE
Nissan 350Z
2007-2009 3.5L V6 VQ35HR
Nissan 370Z
2009-2020 3.7L V6 VQ37VHR
Common Questions
What does code C0081 mean on a 2007-2012 Nissan Altima?
C0081 stands for "Steering Torque Sensor Malfunction". The electric power steering torque sensor has detected a general malfunction.
What are the symptoms of C0081 on a Nissan Altima?
Common symptoms of C0081 include: Power steering warning light, Heavy or erratic steering, EPS assist reduced or absent, Stability control disabled.
What causes C0081 on a 2007-2012 Nissan Altima?
Common causes of C0081 include: Faulty torque sensor in steering column, Wiring damage, Connector corrosion, Steering column impact damage.