What Are the Symptoms of a Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

AvatarByCarl Frisch

Steering Wheel Position Sensor Symptoms are symptoms that may arise when the steering wheel position sensor becomes faulty or is not functioning properly. These symptoms can include: difficulty turning the steering wheel, a grinding or clicking noise from the steering column, and the vehicle drifting to one side while driving. In some cases, the ABS system warning light may be illuminated on the dashboard. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to have the steering wheel position sensor inspected and repaired as soon as possible in order to avoid further damage to your vehicle.

Automobile: Steering Wheel Position Sensor Symptoms

A steering wheel position sensor is an electronic device used in modern automobiles to measure the rotation of the steering wheel. This information is then used by the car’s computer to control various systems such as traction control and stability control. Knowing how a steering wheel position sensor works and where it is located can help you diagnose any issues that may arise with your vehicle.

What Is a Steering Wheel Position Sensor?

A steering wheel position sensor is an important component of modern cars that measures the angle and rotation of the steering wheel. It sends this information to your car’s computer which then uses it to adjust various functions such as traction control and stability control. The sensor is usually mounted on or near the steering column, or in some cases, behind the airbag housing in your dashboard. It is typically connected to a small circuit board which collects data from the sensor and sends it to the vehicle’s computer.

How Does a Steering Wheel Position Sensor Work?

The working principle of a steering wheel position sensor is quite simple. A magnetic encoder sends pulses every time it rotates, while an LED light source illuminates these pulses as they pass through a series of lenses and mirrors. The light pulses are then received by an array of photocells which convert them into digital signals that are sent to your car’s computer, allowing it to accurately measure the angle and rotation of your steering wheel.

Where Is the Steering Wheel Position Sensor Located?

The location of a steering wheel position sensor will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but it is usually located on or near the steering column, or in some cases, behind the airbag housing in your dashboard. It will typically be connected to a small circuit board which collects data from the sensor and sends it to your vehicle’s computer via wires or cables.

Symptoms of a Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor

If you suspect that your vehicle has a faulty steering wheel position sensor, there are several symptoms that you should look out for. These include abnormal vibrations in the steering wheel when turning, difficulty turning at low speeds, jerky movements when braking or accelerating, loss of power assistance when turning or braking, sudden changes in direction when driving at higher speeds, as well as increased fuel consumption due to incorrect calculations from the vehicle’s computer caused by inaccurate readings from the faulty sensor. If any of these symptoms are present in your vehicle then you should contact a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair advice.

Automobile

The automobile is a mode of transportation that has revolutionized how people travel. It has made it easier and more convenient to travel long distances, and is one of the most widely used forms of transportation in the world today. But like any other machine, automobiles require regular maintenance and care to ensure their proper functioning. One such component that needs to be regularly checked for proper functioning is the steering wheel position sensor.

Steering Wheel Position Sensor Symptoms

When a steering wheel position sensor is not functioning properly, it can cause several issues with the vehicle’s steering and handling. Some of the most common symptoms of a faulty steering wheel position sensor are difficulty in maneuvering the vehicle, unstable speed when turning corners, and uneven tire wear. All these symptoms can lead to an unsafe driving experience if not addressed in time.

Difficulty in Maneuvering the Vehicle

If a steering wheel position sensor malfunctions, it can cause difficulty in maneuvering the vehicle. This could be due to incorrect data being sent to the vehicle’s computer regarding the orientation of the steering wheel and its relation to the vehicle’s direction of travel. This could make it harder for drivers to control their vehicles as it could lead to sudden jerks or uncontrolled turns when trying to turn corners or change lanes.

Unstable Speed When Turning Corners

Another symptom of a faulty steering wheel position sensor is an unstable speed when turning corners. This usually occurs when incorrect data is sent from the sensor regarding how much pressure is being applied on the steering wheel while making a turn. This can cause sudden acceleration or deceleration which can be dangerous while driving at high speeds or in traffic congested areas.

Uneven Tire Wear

Uneven tire wear is another symptom of a malfunctioning steering wheel position sensor as incorrect data may be sent regarding how much pressure is being applied on certain parts of the tire while driving. If not addressed immediately this can cause uneven wear on certain parts of tires which can affect their grip on roads leading to poorer handling and braking performance from vehicles.

Causes of Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor

Faulty wiring or connectors are some common causes for a malfunctioning steering wheel position sensor as these components are prone to corrosion due to moisture damage over time which leads them losing their functionality over time if not maintained properly. Additionally, dirt buildup over these components can also interfere with their functionality as well so it’s important for drivers inspect them regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear before any issues arise with their vehicles’ performance

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a Steering Wheel Position Sensor?
A: A steering wheel position sensor, also known as a steering angle sensor (SAS), is an electronic device that measures the angle of the steering wheel and the speed at which it is being turned. This information is then used by the vehicle’s computer to adjust the vehicle’s stability and traction control systems.

Q: How Does a Steering Wheel Position Sensor Work?
A: A steering wheel position sensor works through an array of sensors mounted on the inside of the steering column. The sensors measure changes in voltage when the steering wheel is turned, which are then sent to the vehicle’s computer. The data from these sensors allows the computer to determine how much torque should be applied to each tire in order to maintain stability and control while driving.

Q: Where Is the Steering Wheel Position Sensor Located?
A: The steering wheel position sensor is located on or near the base of the steering column inside a car’s dashboard. It can usually be found under or behind a plastic cover or trim panel that needs to be removed in order to access it.

Q: What Are the Symptoms of a Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor?
A: Some common symptoms of a faulty steering wheel position sensor include abnormal vibrations in the steering wheel, difficulty maneuvering, unstable speed when turning corners and uneven tire wear.

Q: What Causes a Faulty Steering Wheel Position Sensor?
A: Common causes for a faulty steering wheel position sensor can include corrosion and moisture damage, as well as faulty wiring or connectors.

In conclusion, the steering wheel position sensor is an important component of any automobile and is responsible for providing accurate information to the vehicle’s computer system. Symptoms of a bad steering wheel position sensor can include erratic behavior from engine control systems, inaccurate readings from the ABS system, and decreased fuel economy. If you suspect that your vehicle may be experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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