Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Steering System: Operation
Turning of the steering wheel is converted into linear (side-to-side) travel through the meshing of the helical pinion teeth with the rack teeth within the steering gear. The lateral travel pushes and pulls the tie rods to change the direction of the vehicle's front wheels.
Power assist steering is provided by an electric motor and control unit connected to the steering gear. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) system provides variable assist for steering maneuvers based on several inputs:
- Steering wheel position and rate of movement from Steering Angle Sensor (SAS)
- Steering wheel torque from torque sensors in the EPS Gear
- Vehicle speed
No components of the EPS system can be serviced separately. If any component of the EPS requires service, the entire steering gear must be replaced. The only serviceable parts are inner and outer tie rods, and tie rod bellows.
The EPS system communicates over the CAN network, including broadcasting the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) position.
Manual steering control of the vehicle can be maintained if power steering assist is lost. However, under this condition, steering effort is significantly increased.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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