C0745: Electric Power Steering Overtemperature Protection
The EPS module has reduced or disabled assistance to protect the motor from overheating, typically after extended low-speed manoeuvring.
What C0745 means
C0745 is a generic OBD-II chassis code in the steering group.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- 01Prolonged low-speed operation (e.g. parking)Most likely
- 02Motor thermal sensor driftLess likely
Can I drive with C0745?
No. Stop and let the engine cool.
If the temperature gauge is high or you see steam, pull over and switch off. Driving an overheating engine can warp the head and blow the head gasket.
Why we rate it urgent
- Engine over-temperature can cause head-gasket and engine damage
- Usually lights the ABS, traction or stability warning instead of the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose C0745
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just C0745. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Check live data
Watch the related sensor and actuator readings in live data (EPS motor, EPS control module) and compare them with expected values in the service information for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Prolonged low-speed operation (e.g. parking); motor thermal sensor drift. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
C0745 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Basic hand tools; a common first DIY job.
Parts and systems involved
- EPS motor
- EPS control module
C0745 FAQ
What does C0745 mean?
C0745 means “Electric Power Steering Overtemperature Protection”. The EPS module has reduced or disabled assistance to protect the motor from overheating, typically after extended low-speed manoeuvring.
Is C0745 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate C0745 as urgent severity. No. Stop and let the engine cool. If the temperature gauge is high or you see steam, pull over and switch off. Driving an overheating engine can warp the head and blow the head gasket.
What causes C0745?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Prolonged low-speed operation (e.g. parking); Motor thermal sensor drift. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix C0745?
Typical labor is about $5–$125 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix C0745 myself?
DIY difficulty is easy. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will C0745 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.