C0196
Yaw Rate Sensor Circuit
The stability control module has detected an implausible signal from the yaw rate sensor. The yaw sensor measures rotation around the vertical axis and is essential for ESP — a fault disables stability control.
- Check engine light: Not always
- Emissions related: No
- Repair difficulty: medium
Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
Ordered by how often each turns out to be the cause.
- Yaw rate sensor failedCommon
- Sensor not calibrated after replacement or alignmentPossible
- Wiring or connector faultLess likely
Parts involved
- Yaw Rate Sensor
- Esp Control Module
- Sensor Cluster
C0196 is a generic OBD-II code defined by SAE J2012. Exact wording and diagnostic procedure vary by manufacturer and model. Code definitions are drawn from the public-domain OBDex dataset; the workshop notes are our own.