John Deere 522846.18 – XMC / XMA: Steering Control Valve, Current Too Low
Issue description
The control module monitors the electrical current flowing to the steering control valve. This code is generated when the current in the supply line of the right-steer proportional solenoid falls below the minimum operating threshold. This condition almost always indicates an open circuit, which prevents the valve from receiving the necessary electrical signals to actuate a right-hand turn.
Applies to these machines
32 machines- 6110M
- 6120M
- 6130M
- 6145M
- 6155M
- 6175M
- 6195M
- 6110R
- 6120R
- 6130R
- 6145R
- 6155R
- 6175R
- 6195R
- 6215R
- 8R Series
- 8RX Series
- 8225R
- 8235R
- 8245R
- 8260R
- 8285R
- 8310R
- 8335R
- 8360R
- 8400R
- 6J Series
- 6145J
- 6165J
- 6180J
- 6205J
- 7R Series
Check the cause
Visually inspect the wiring harness connecting the XMC/XMA module to the steering control valve for chafed wires, pinch points, or damage caused by debris.
Disconnect the harness at the steering control valve (Steer Right Solenoid 1) and inspect the connector for corroded, loose, or pushed-back pins.
Use a multimeter to measure the resistance across the pins of the Steer Right Solenoid on the valve itself. Infinite resistance (OL) indicates the solenoid coil has failed internally.
Perform a continuity test on the supply and return wires between the valve connector and the XMC module to locate any break in the wiring.
Repair steps
Disconnect Power
Turn off the machine and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical shorts during repair.
Repair Wiring
If the diagnostic tests revealed a broken wire or damaged connector, splice in a new section of wire or replace the connector pigtail using John Deere approved weather-sealed connectors.
Replace Valve/Solenoid
If the solenoid coil is internally open, replace the steering control valve assembly (or the specific proportional solenoid, if your specific valve allows the solenoid to be serviced separately).
Reassembly
Reconnect the wiring harness to the steering control valve, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place. Reconnect the battery.
Clear Codes
Turn the key to the ON position. Use the CommandCenter display or John Deere Service ADVISOR to clear the stored XMC/XMA 522846.18 fault code.
Calibration
Because a steering component was replaced or disconnected, you must perform the AutoTrac™ or ActiveCommand Steering (ACS) calibration procedure via the display to ensure the module learns the new valve's electrical characteristics.
Test Drive
Operate the machine in a safe area, testing the right-hand steering response under AutoTrac/ACS control to verify the repair.
Parts you might need
(5)AutoTrac™ Steering Control Valve
RE583800Fits many 8R series tractors (e.g., 8245R, 8270R, 8295R, 8345R, 8400R).
AutoTrac™ Steering Control Valve
RE561721Fits many 8R series tractors (e.g., 8245R, 8270R, 8295R, 8345R, 8400R).
AutoTrac™ Steering Control Valve
RE326796Fits earlier 8R series tractors (e.g., 8235R, 8260R, 8310R, 8360R).
AutoTrac™ Steering Control Valve
RE332996Fits 7J and 7030 series tractors.
AutoTrac™ Steering Control Valve
RE333005Fits 8000, 8010, and 8020 series tractors.
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