Steering Angle Sensor
| Item Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Steering angle sensor |
The steering angle sensor is mounted at the bottom of the steering spindle at the base of the upper steering column assembly.
The sensor is equipped with a processor and is directly linked to the controller area network (CAN) bus system to communicate with the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module.
The sensor utilizes two potentiometers to determine the steering angle and the rate of steering. These are the raw signals the steering angle microprocessor utilizes to create the steering angle signal for broadcast on the controller area network (CAN).
The sensor requires calibration after repairs to the steering or suspension system. Once the calibration is completed the sensor now also sends an identification number over the controller area network (CAN) to the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. The identification number provides confirmation in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module that the steering angle sensor is properly calibrated.
If the identification number differs due to component replacement it will be necessary to enter the diagnostic system of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module to initiate the steering angle sensor calibration. DSC will not be available on the vehicle until the steering angle sensor is calibrated. Once complete a new identification number is generated and the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module and steering angle sensor are properly mated.
The DSC logic in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module checks the plausibility of the steering angle sensor signals against the other inputs (front wheel speeds, rotation and yaw rate and lateral acceleration sensor). If battery voltage is interrupted, the current steering wheel rotation is recalculated by the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module evaluating the wheel speeds.
Replacement steering angle sensors must be coded when installed in the vehicle prior to the calibration procedure in order to add the vehicle identification number (VIN) to the angle sensor. Re-calibration is carried out by turning the steering lock to lock, with the engine running, while stationary.