How to fix chassis control system fault

Will not start and this error pops up on my dash screen. Everything else still works; lights, radio, seats, etc., but car will not start. It will with a jump and is fine for two or three starts then the same issue. I see that this is kind of common on Nissans but not a lot of actual answers as to why or if it is something we can fix. We have an appointment with Nissan on Tuesday but trying to get as much information as we can before we go. Anyone with the same issue? If so, what was going on? Super frustrating, especially since we are going on a road trip in a little over a week. Help?

When riding your vehicle, you might observe the Chassis Control System Error warning message appearing in the vehicle information display.

Seeing this information on the dashboard can get you worried and unsettled, especially if you don’t understand the meaning. This is quite a normal feature in many cars especially in recent models. 

This information may clearly indicate that the Chassis Control Module has detected an error in the Active Trace Control, Active Engine Brake, or the Active Ride Control systems. 

Most times, people hardly pinpoint the cause for this display information, that is why this article aims to help you figure out what causes this display information and how the problems can be fixed. 

What is a Chassis Control System Error?

The chassis control system error is a warning message that appears in the vehicle information display.

The chassis control system error is an indication that the Chassis Control Module has detected an error in the Active Trace Control, Active Engine Brake, or the Active Ride Control systems.

If the Chassis Control Module warning message appears in the vehicle information display, it may be an indication that Active Ride Control is not functioning properly.

When Active Ride Control is in operation, you may hear a noise or feel a slight declaration.

This is normal and it indicates that Active Ride Control is functioning properly.

What Does A Chassis Control Module Do?

An Electronic Control Unit (ECU), also known as an Electronic Control Module (ECM), is an embedded system in automotive electronics that controls one or more of the electrical systems or subsystems in a vehicle or other motor vehicle.

Chassis Master Control Unit ECUs is mounted directly on the chassis to replace conventional wiring between cabin and chassis and produce functionality like level and roll control or light management near to sensors and actuators.

The major features are robustness and reliability, which can be said to be the main drivers for the design of this electronic solution.

What Causes Chassis System Fault?

The chassis system fault is usually caused by either the air system leveling or the hydraulic system if you have PDCC.

Sometimes, it can be a slow air leak in the air system that causes the compressor to run longer than it should.

The chassis control system error message can be due to a number of different reasons.

One most common reason is the stop-start system can fail to  operate due to a low battery.

In other words, the chassis control fault message can may be due to a failing battery or just due to the vehicle not having sufficient use to get it fully charged.

However, it can also be a case of a poor battery connection causing the error message.

How Do I Fix Chassis Control System Error?

Different ways have been suggested on how to fix the chassis control system faults. 

The first step is to take your car to a mechanic workshop. It may be that the sensor is bad or the ABS/wheel speed sensor can be the problem.

The shop can run an OBD scanner to determine the trouble code and find more information about it.

However, this can still be pointless since there can be lots of things causing this issue. 

Depending on what the issue may be, it is hence a complicated case. 

If the problem is as a result of a failing battery, then checking if the battery terminals are tight would be a good first move.

If they are then the car will need to be checked using a diagnostic reader to determine the cause.

Normally, this is not serious and does not affect the safety of the car. 

If you choose to take your vehicle to a workshop, make sure your in the Parking lot.

Then try to be sure the Main battery is good and holds 12 volts. You can try to reset in case it was a glitch.

Note that a Chassis fault in ABS ,Traction can disable startup. 

Below are the process of master reset incase you opt to go with this. 

• Disconnect Both Battery Cables, Positive & Negative 

• Touch Cables With Each Other For 60 Secs ( this will take any residual power in the Harness to Reset the Vehicle Modules )

• Wait 30 min

• Close all doors and trunk

•  Reconnect Battery Positive First

• Use the key in the driver side door. 

Lock Cylinder, if you have only a key fob, use it to lock and unlock

7- Enter the vehicle and start it.

Furthermore, there is many things that can cause the Chassis to malfunction or becomes faulty.

If for instance your car fails to start, you can try to jumpstart. 

If you chose to jumpstart, to see if your car can start, not that If you have a weak battery, it can keep your vehicle from not starting and low system voltage can cause the Chassis Control System fault as well.

You may still get this warning message because it generated fault codes for low system voltage.

This also will require a more advanced level scanner to clear the fault codes.

What Is Chassis Control and What Does it Entail?

Chassis control is the system that is responsible for controlling suspension, steering, and brakes during daily driving. 

Chassis control is an essential part of your vehicle, and thanks to the recent computer technology, this feature has advanced significantly in recent years.

Numerous automobiles now feature Electronic Stability Control, which is a system in the chassis control that helps maintain and sustain course while steering.

With chassis control systems and modern technology, people can feel more relaxed and comfortable keeping to their lane without constantly changing the vehicle’s direction.

What is a Chassis Control Unit?

The Scalable Chassis Control Unit (SCCU) is the central electronic device for vertical dynamics control.

This control unit provides permanent adjustment of the damping force depending on road conditions, vehicle speed and controls the air suspension system of the vehicle while optimizing passenger comfort and dynamics.

What Are The Signs Of Problems With Your Chassis Control?

As with any electronic or mechanical system, there is a tendency that the chassis control may occasionally fail. 

Typical warning signs include:

1. Chassis Control System Error warning text

2. Sagging suspension

3.  Compressor sound

4. The front end drops while braking

5. The steering tugs to one side

6. Variable tread wear

7. Steering is challenging

8. Bottoming on bumps or rugged terrain

9. Extremely rugged riding experience

10. A corroded or greasy strut

11. The suspension compressor always on

12  Compressor always off

13. The car rebounds following a bump.

 If your vehicle exhibits any of these signs, it is advisable to get a good mechanic inspect the chassis control system.

These professional technicians could check for the correct functionality of the Intelligent engine brake, Intelligent trace control, and Intelligent ride control.

What Are the Precautions For Chassis Control?

The precautions for chassis control are as follows: 

• Do not disassemble the Chassis Control Module

• Do not reuse if the Chassis Control Module has been dropped.

• Do not perform ACTIVE TEST while driving the vehicle.

• Slight vibrations may be felt on the brake pedal and operation noises may occur when Active Trace Control and Active Ride Control operate. This may happen during normal operation and is not a malfunction.

• The tachometer will rise and engine noise may be noticeable during Active Engine Brake operation. This may happen during normal operation and is not a malfunction.

Conclusion

When the Chassis Control System Error warning message appears in the vehicle information display, this is an indication that the Chassis Control Module has detected an error in the Active Trace Control, Active Engine Brake, or the Active Ride Control systems. 

Sometimes this may be due to a failing battery or it can be due to the vehicle not having sufficient use to charge it fully.

Another cause for the error message can be a poor battery connection. 

If failing battery is the problem, then checking if the battery terminals are tight would be a good first move.

If they are then the car will need to be checked using a diagnostic reader to determine the cause.

Normally, this is not serious and does not affect the safety of the car.