John Deere 3842 – XMC or XSC: Wheel Angle Sensor Channel 2, Voltage Too High

The dual-output rotary position sensor (Wheel Angle Sensor) has two channels. This code is triggered when the voltage at Channel 2 of the wheel angle sensor registers above 2.25 volts. In a properly functioning system, the signal voltage of Sensor 2 should be exactly half (1:2 ratio) of the signal voltage of Sensor 1. When this fault occurs, the control software will exhibit limited or no AutoTrac/steering functionality to prevent erratic steering behavior.

• 6110M
• 6120M
• 6130M
• 6145M
• 6155M
• 6175M
• 6195M
• 6110R
• 6120R
• 6130R
• 6145R
• 6155R
• 6175R
• 6195R
• 6215R
• 8225R
• 8235R
• 8245R
• 8260R
• 8270R
• 8285R
• 8295R
• 8310R
• 8320R
• 8335R
• 8345R
• 8360R
• 8400R
• 7200R
• 7210R
• 7215R
• 7230R
• 7250R
• 7260R
• 7270R
• 7280R
• 7290R
• 7310R
• 6145J
• 6165J
• 6180J
• 6205J
• 5R series
• 6M/6R series
• select combines/sprayers

1. 1

   Monitor Sensor Voltages: Use a John Deere diagnostic tool to monitor the voltages of both sensor channels in real-time. Verify if Channel 2 is actually exceeding 2.25V and check if the 1:2 voltage ratio between Channel 1 and Channel 2 is disrupted.

2. 2

   Inspect Wiring and Connections: Check the wheel angle sensor wiring harness (especially near the front axle where it is exposed to debris) for signs of chafing, broken wires, corrosion, or loose connections. A broken wire inside the insulation is a common cause of intermittent voltage spikes.

3. 3

   Verify Sensor Mounting: Ensure the sensor and its linkage are securely mounted and properly aligned. Loose or misaligned sensors can give inaccurate readings.

1. 1

   Repair Wiring (If Applicable)

   If the harness is damaged, repair the broken wires or replace the wheel angle sensor wiring harness entirely.

2. 2

   Replace the Sensor

   If the wiring tests good but the voltage remains out of range, the internal potentiometer of the sensor has likely failed. Remove the linkage and unbolt the faulty wheel angle sensor from the front axle, then install the new sensor.

3. 3

   Calibrate the Steering Angle Sensor

   This step is mandatory after replacing the sensor or linkage. Ensure the tractor is on flat, smooth, and hard ground. Access the CommandCenter display. Navigate to the Message Center. Put the system into technical mode (on 7R/8R models, this often involves pressing and holding the 'G' button on the armrest control for 10 seconds). Select Entrance Address 22 to access the steering sensor calibration. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the left, right, and center calibration points.

4. 4

   Clear Codes

   Cycle the key switch and clear the diagnostic trouble codes to verify the repair.