What is a yaw rate sensor?
The yaw rate sensor is essential for your car's electronic stability control or traction control system. It monitors the vehicle's yaw rate—i.e., the car's rotational movement around its central vertical axis.
In simpler terms, the yaw rate sensor—sometimes also called the rotational speed sensor—measures the difference between the vehicle's actual direction and the direction in which you're steering.
Your car's computer reads this information and then uses the data to determine whether you're oversteering or understeering before applying corrective force if necessary. The stability and traction control systems then take corrective action—such as applying the brakes to specific wheels or adjusting the engine power—to enhance vehicle stability and control.
What are the symptoms of a bad yaw rate sensor?
There might be a few symptoms that your yaw rate sensor needs fixing, such as:
A check engine light comes on. Your car's check engine light may appear for a variety of reasons. However, if your CEL turns on simultaneously with the traction control light, it may be a sign that you need a yaw rate sensor replacement. Error code U0513 is a standard DTC for issues with the yaw rate sensor.
The stability or traction control light is on. These lights are supposed to appear briefly when the systems are in use. Nonetheless, if one or both of these lights appears on your dash for an extended period, you may have a bad yaw rate sensor.
The stability control light flashes. On some vehicles, the stability control light is designed to flash when there's a problem with the yaw rate sensor. If you experience this issue, take your car in for an inspection.
Loss of stability control. Without a properly functioning yaw rate sensor, the stability control systems cannot effectively intervene to correct deviations from the intended path, resulting in the vehicle becoming more vulnerable to skidding or sliding during turns or sudden maneuvers, especially in poor weather conditions.
Decreased ABS functionality. A bad yaw sensor affects the anti-lock braking system (ABS), compromising braking performance and increasing stopping distances.
How often do you need to replace a yaw rate sensor?
Your yaw rate sensor is designed to last your car’s lifespan. Nevertheless, consistent exposure to heat and moisture can break down its performance over time.
Is replacing a yaw rate sensor yourself easy?
Although you can certainly try replacing a yaw rate sensor yourself, you should be confident in your DIY auto repair skills and come prepared with special programming equipment. For the average driver, we recommend letting a certified mechanic diagnose and fix the problem.
Keep in mind: Other problems can mimic the symptoms of a faulty yaw rate sensor, so diagnosing the issue accurately is essential.