GMC Canyon Steering Issues & Traction Light Fix Guide

Having worked on several GM vehicles, I encountered a very similar issue with my 2011 GMC Sierra. Based on your description, it sounds exactly like what I experienced, especially with the traction control light flickering. After diagnosing the problem, it turned out to be a faulty steering angle sensor coding. The electronic stability system relies heavily on accurate steering angle data, and when the sensor coding becomes corrupted, it affects both steering response and traction control functionality. The repair at my trusted workshop involved recalibrating and coding the steering angle sensor. The total cost was 195 Euro, including diagnostics and labor. The wheel alignment was also checked as part of the service to ensure everything was properly calibrated. Since getting it fixed, the steering has returned to normal, and the traction control system works perfectly. The repair took about 2 hours to complete. To provide more specific advice for your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your Canyon, Whether the check engine light is also on, If you notice the issues more during specific conditions (cold starts, turning left vs right), Any recent work done on the steering or suspension system These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my Sierra.

Thanks for checking my case. The mileage is 92261 KM and I had my last service about 6 months ago. The check engine light stays off, but the problem is definitely worse during cold starts. No recent work done on steering or suspension. The steering sensor replacement quote I got from a local shop was 450 Euro, which sounds high compared to your experience. Would a simple sensor recalibration work in my case? The intermittent power steering issues and wheel shaking suggest it might be more than just a coding problem. The steering column feels loose when turning sharply. Let me know if sensor replacement is really necessary or if I should push for just recalibration first.

This definitely sounds more serious than what I encountered with my Sierra. While sensor recalibration worked for me, the loose feeling in your steering column suggests you might be dealing with multiple issues. The significant steering wheel shake combined with a loose steering column could indicate worn steering components beyond just the sensor problem. In my case, I only had the electronic stability issues and steering resistance, but no physical looseness or severe vibration. The wheel alignment remained perfect throughout. However, your symptoms point toward potential mechanical wear in the steering column or tie rods, which would explain the higher repair quote. I would recommend getting a full steering system inspection. When my sensor replacement was done, the steering column was tight and the wheel alignment was spot-on. Your situation sounds like it needs more than just sensor replacement or recalibration. The cold start symptoms are familiar though, that is typical of sensor-related issues with these models. But the looseness during sharp turns suggests mechanical wear that could damage a new sensor if not addressed first. Based on the mileage and symptoms, I would: 1. Request a complete steering system inspection 2. Have them check the power steering pump 3. Get the wheel alignment verified 4. Then proceed with sensor replacement if needed The 450 Euro quote makes more sense if it includes addressing these additional issues. Would be interested to know what components they specifically included in that quote.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up. After hearing your explanation, I understand why my quote is higher. I called the shop back and they confirmed the 450 Euro includes replacing both the steering angle sensor and the power steering pump, plus a complete wheel alignment check. Based on your experience and advice, I will proceed with the full repair since the looseness in the steering column is concerning. Better to fix everything properly than risk further issues. I notice the steering gets increasingly unstable when driving, so waiting might lead to bigger problems. The automotive sensors in these models seem prone to issues around 90000 KM, which matches my situation perfectly. I will make sure they check all steering components during the repair to prevent any recurring problems. Will book the appointment for next week and request they perform the complete inspection you suggested. The symptoms match up too well with mechanical wear to ignore. Thanks for helping me understand why the simple sensor recalibration might not be enough in my case.