Description And Operation

DESCRIPTION 

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

1. Steering column input shaft.
2. Steering wheel adjustment locking/unlocking lever.
3. Steering column output shaft.
4. Power assistance actuator.

The vehicle features Electric Power Steering (EPS). Since the steering system is fully electric, all power assistance is provided by an electric motor system. The motor:

• Improves fuel economy as there is no power uptake from a power steering pump.
• Reduces steering system-generated noise and allows optimal tuning of feedback to the driver.

The speed-sensitive, variable power assistance responds to sensors monitoring steering torque, steering wheel speed and angle, and vehicle speed. The steering system is fully integrated with the electronic stability control system and helps compensate in situations where the wheels have different grip.

OPERATION 

The EPS system is a power steering system designed to reduce the force necessary for maneuvering the vehicle at low speed, without rendering steering too light at higher speeds. EPS provides:

• A lighter and less complex system with fewer components.
• Less noise and improved driving comfort.
• Power assistance is relative to vehicle speed.

The EPS system operates according to the operating information received by the CAN, such as:

• Vehicle speed.
• Engine speed.
• Ignition status.

The EPS assembly includes two built-in sensors that provide:

• Steering angle.
• Steering wheel torque (driver input).

The system will turn off power assistance if the following criteria are met:

• Engine speed is less than 600 RPM.
• Ignition is in the OFF position.

This allows the system to continue providing assistance in the event of a stall, or a condition where ignition input is lost due to an electrical fault.

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

1. EPS module.
2. Upper electric steering mounts.
3. Lower electric steering mounts.