AI DamageB2278 code in owner complaints
Code B2278 is named in 70 US owner complaints, 1 of them (1%) after a crash. Models: 4, model years 2008–2012.
There is little data for this code or its meaning is ambiguous, so this page is not indexed.
What the code means
This is a manufacturer-specific code: the meaning depends on the make and sometimes on the year.
How to read B2278: the letter B means body (including airbags and belts); the second digit 2 marks a manufacturer code whose meaning is set by the make; the last three characters 278 identify the specific fault.
Electric power steering, steering angle sensor and steering column codes. After a front wheel impact the steering angle sensor often needs calibration, and a bent rack or tie rod produces errors scanners describe as invalid data.
Key figures
- Complaints with this code
- 70
- after a crash
- 1 (1%)
- Models
- 4
- Model years
- 2008–2012
Which models and years
Models whose owners name this code (4). Years link to the model year problems page.
Components named together with the code
Component as the owner filed it (one complaint can list several).
Complaints by model year
What to do if an auction car has this code
- Compare steering wheel and wheel positions in photos: an off-center wheel with straight tires points to a bent tie rod or rack.
- After front suspension repair, budget steering angle sensor calibration and an alignment.
What owners report
Excerpts of owner complaints in the original wording. Owner statements not verified by the regulator; personal data removed.
Yesterday I went to the Ford dealership and asked if my 2009 Ford Escape could have the power steering repaired under recall as the code from the OBD2 data is B2278 and that falls under a RECALL for PSCM Power Steering Control Module - STEERING SHAFT TORQUE SENSOR MALFUNCTION CAMPAIGN ID: 14V284000 FORD RECALL #14S05…
Additionally, while the vehicle was idling, the steering wheel was turning from right to left independently. While servicing the vehicle, the DTC: B2278 was displayed. The contact was informed that the steering torque sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired.
The contact stated that the steering wheel seized and became difficult to turn, and a crescent wrench warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was provided error code B2278 and informed that the steering column motor had failed and needed to be replaced.
Related codes
Sources: public official US data (owner complaints) and the SAE J2012 standard. Complaints are owner statements not verified by the regulator. A code from a complaint does not replace a scan tool diagnosis. Data updated 2026-11-10.