AI DamageC0545 code in owner complaints
Code C0545 is named in 65 US owner complaints, 1 of them (2%) after a crash. Models: 9, model years 2004–2020.
There is little data for this code or its meaning is ambiguous, so this page is not indexed.
What the code means
The current SAE generic name is “VIN Not Programmed or Incompatible - BSCM”, but owner complaints point to a different component (see below). Older models and some makes use this code their own way, so check the meaning for your car in the make's service information.
How to read C0545: the letter C means chassis (brakes, ABS, steering, suspension); the second digit 0 marks a generic SAE code shared by all makes; the last three characters 545 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
- 65
- after a crash
- 1 (2%)
- Models
- 9
- Model years
- 2004–2020
Which models and years
Models whose owners name this code (9). Years link to the model year problems page.
| Model | Years | Complaints |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Colorado | 2015, 2016 | 19 |
| Chevrolet Malibu | 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2020 | 19 |
| GMC Canyon | 2015, 2016 | 11 |
| Pontiac G6 | 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010 | 8 |
| Saturn Aura | 2009 | 3 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 2017 | 2 |
| Cadillac ATS | 2013 | 1 |
| Chevrolet Camaro | 2017 | 1 |
| Chevrolet Malibu Maxx | 2004 | 1 |
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.
The steering lock-up afterward and the vehicle crashed. Dealer service manager found fault code C0545 from the computer. Gm issued a tsb to address that fault code.
The dealer performed a diagnostic test and retrieved DTC: C0545; indicating a failure within the Steering Wheel Torque Sensor of the electric power steering (EPS) system.
The message "Loss of Power Steering Assist - Danger - Have Unit Serviced" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who retrieved DTC: C0545. The mechanic had not yet informed the contact of what part needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired.
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.