How To Disable Steering Wheel Lock
How To Disable Steering Wheel Lock have been in use since the early 1990s, but with the advancement of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems, the need to reset them after routine maintenance has become crucial. While this adds an extra step to steering-related tasks, it also presents an opportunity for garages to offer valuable services. In this guide, we delve into SAS, its function, the necessity of resetting it, and signs of a failing sensor. Equip yourself with the knowledge to reset and get going on your next steering job.
Understanding the Steering Angle Sensor
In recent years, vehicle manufacturers have incorporated various sensors into the steering system. One of these sensors is the SAS, typically situated within the steering column. As an integral component of the stability control system, SAS accurately tracks wheel position and turn rate. It collaborates with yaw, accelerometer, and wheel speed sensors to assess vehicle dynamics—understanding the vehicle’s actions, the driver’s intentions, and necessary corrective actions by the ABS hydraulic control unit to maintain control.
How Steering Angle Sensors Operate
There are two primary types of SAS: analog and digital, with the latter found in modern vehicles. Analog sensors have a 5-volt reference, chassis ground, and signal output. As the wheel completes a full rotation, it generates a signal between 0 and 5 volts, indicating the turn rate and angle. On the other hand, digital sensors use an LED light to gauge the rate of turn, wheel angle, turn direction, and other vital data. Regardless of the type, if SAS detects a discrepancy between the steering wheel’s position and the vehicle’s direction, the stability control system intervenes. For instance, in the case of understeer, it applies the rear brake on the inner side of the vehicle to rectify the situation.
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Signs of Steering Sensor Failure
While SAS is designed to endure a vehicle’s lifespan, like any electronic component, it’s susceptible to wear and tear. It can also sustain damage during work on other vehicle parts, such as the power steering wheel. Familiarizing yourself with signs of a malfunctioning sensor is wise. Look out for:
- Illumination of warning lights: A faulty SAS triggers a stability-related warning light on the dashboard, signaling the system’s disabled state and the need for servicing. This light is often the traction control light, but it could also be the check engine light.
- Steering wheel behavior: A malfunctioning or misaligned SAS sends inaccurate data to the electronic control unit (ECU). This can lead to incorrect steering adjustments, resulting in either loose steering or unresponsive steering behavior.
The Necessity of Steering Angle Sensor Reset
Given that vehicles equipped with ESC, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and safety features depend on accurate SAS data, resetting is now essential after wheel alignment or component replacement affecting toe and thrust angles. This ensures these systems comprehend the vehicle’s road behavior, enabling them to predict and implement necessary safety corrections. A misaligned or inaccurately calibrated SAS can disrupt the vehicle’s stability system, leading to its malfunction and eventual disablement.
Resetting the Steering Angle Sensor
Resetting the SAS varies significantly based on manufacturers and models. Here are the main calibration methods that integrate SAS with other sensors:
- Self-calibration: Some modern vehicles can self-calibrate by turning the steering wheel from lock to lock, centering it, and cycling the key. Other vehicles may require specific commands to initiate calibration.
- Test drive: More advanced wheel speed sensor-equipped vehicles can automatically reset the SAS during a straight-line drive for a set time, usually a few seconds at highway speed.
- Diagnostic scan tool reset: Certain vehicles might necessitate a scan tool reset. Some alignment systems incorporate SAS reset functions, eliminating the need for a separate diagnostic procedure post-alignment.
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It’s recommended to perform SAS calibration on the ground rather than on a lift, following the manufacturer’s service manual for precise instructions. Remember, regardless of the vehicle and its specified procedure, incorporating steering angle reset into your alignment routine adds value to your services as an independent garage.
