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The steering angle sensor (SAS) is a critical part of the ESC system that measures the steering wheel position angle and rate of turn. A scan tool can be used to obtain this data in degrees. The SAS is located in a sensor cluster in the steering column. The cluster always has more than one steering position sensor for redundancy and to confirm data. The ESC module must receive two signals to confirm the steering wheel position. These signals are often out of phase with each other. ANALOG STEERING SENSORS Analog SASs are similar to throttle position sensors. SASs are wired with a 5-volt reference, chassis ground and signal output and can be tested via a port under the steering column. As the steering wheel is turned, the SAS produces a signal that toggles between 0 and 5 volts as the wheel is turned 360º. It is possible to observe the 0 to 5 volt signal with meters connected to the two SAS sensors. When the wheels are straight forward, the sensors read 2.8v and .4v. If the readings are the same, the two sensors could be shorted together. Most vehicles produce a positive voltage turning right, and a negative voltage turning left. DIGITAL STEERING POSITION SENSOR A digital SAS is often called a “contactless sensor.” This type of sensor uses LED light, a wheel that acts as a shutter and an optic sensor that measures interruption in the light. These sensors produce a digital square wave signal with the frequency depending on the speed the wheel is turning. With the wheel straight, the voltage is low, but it increases as the wheel is turned away from center. CAN BUS MODULE STEERING ANGLE SENSORS SAS clusters connect either directly or through other modules to the ESC via the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus. Nodes on the CAN bus have the ability to interpret and create signals that can be understood by other nodes on the bus. TESTING DIRECT-TYPE CAN SAS SENSORS The best way to test modules on a high speed CAN bus is with a scan tool. Most tools can look at the data directly, but some need additional software. If your scan tool needs software, you can still use a meter connected to the high speed CAN bus wires to confirm that the SAS is communicating with the rest of the network. RESETTING STEERING ANGLE SENSORS Many vehicles require the SAS be reset or recalibrated after an alignment is performed or parts in the steering system are replaced. There are three types of reset procedures, systems that self calibrate on their own, vehicles that require specific wires or buttons be pressed and, systems that require recalibration with a scan tool. If the SAS is out of calibration, most vehicles can tell if they are traveling in a straight line, but if the angle is too far off, the ESC could become disabled. Self-Calibration Some newer vehicles can auto calibrate by having the wheel turned from lock to lock and then centered and cycling the key. Scan Tool Steering Angle Sensor Reset There are many options for scan tools to reset SASs. Some tools are even integrated into an alignment system. But, most tools recommend that the calibration be performed on a level surface. Also, it is a good idea to perform a lock-to-lock turn to complete the calibration. Find out more about rack end manufacturer by visit tahiko.com. Olivia Tong is the freelance writer for e-commerce website tahiko.com and ekko-rubber.com offers the buyers around the world to find quality and discount auto parts. We try our best to aggregate leads in the business world, and let these leads benefit the entire business person.
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