steering
Electric Power Steering Module
for 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 L83 · RWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
2.0 h
Tools
8
Steps
12
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the electric power steering control module on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 engine.
Warnings
⚠Disconnecting the battery will erase radio presets and may require relearning procedures for other modules.
⚠Do not turn the steering wheel with the intermediate shaft disconnected, as this can damage the clockspring.
ℹ️The electric power steering module is located on the steering column below the instrument panel.
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
13mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrench (10-150 Nm range)Essential
Trim panel removal tool set
Battery terminal wrenchEssential
Wire brush
Dielectric grease
GM Tech 2 or compatible scan tool
Parts
- Electric Power Steering Control Module × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Mounting bolt thread locker (medium strength) × 1 — Loctite 242 or equivalent
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
- Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
- Adjust steering wheel to full up position for best access
- Remove driver's side lower dash panel/knee bolster using trim tools
Procedure
- 1Disconnect Intermediate Steering ShaftLocate the intermediate shaft coupling bolt at the base of the steering column. Mark the relationship between the upper and lower shafts with a paint pen or marker for proper alignment during reinstallation. Remove the coupling bolt and separate the intermediate shaft from the steering column shaft.Torque specCoupling Bolt42 Nm (31 lb-ft)
- 2Remove Steering Column CoversRemove the upper and lower steering column cover screws. There are typically 4-6 screws holding the covers in place. Carefully separate the covers and set aside.Torque specCover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
- 3Disconnect Electrical ConnectorsLocate the EPS module electrical connector on the side of the steering column. Press the connector release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out from the module. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
- 4Remove EPS Module Mounting BoltsIdentify the EPS module mounting bolts securing the module to the steering column bracket. There are typically 2-3 mounting bolts. Remove these bolts while supporting the module weight.Torque specMounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
- 5Remove EPS ModuleCarefully slide the EPS module off the steering column shaft. The module may be tight on the shaft; gently wiggle and pull straight back to remove. Inspect the steering shaft for any damage or wear.
- 6Install New EPS ModuleClean the steering shaft with a wire brush if needed. Align the new EPS module with the steering column shaft, ensuring the splines engage properly. Slide the module fully onto the shaft until it seats against the mounting bracket.
- 7Install Module Mounting BoltsApply a small amount of medium-strength thread locker to the mounting bolt threads. Install the mounting bolts and tighten to specification in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.Torque specMounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
- 8Reconnect Electrical ConnectorRoute the wiring harness as noted during removal. Push the electrical connector firmly into the EPS module until you hear and feel a positive click. Verify the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.
- 9Reinstall Steering Column CoversPosition the lower and upper steering column covers around the column. Install all cover screws and tighten to specification. Ensure covers are properly aligned and gaps are even.Torque specCover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
- 10Reconnect Intermediate ShaftAlign the marks made during disassembly on the intermediate shaft and steering column shaft. Ensure the shafts are fully engaged and aligned. Install the coupling bolt and tighten to specification.⚠Ensure the intermediate shaft is properly aligned using the alignment marks. Misalignment can cause steering issues and premature wear.Torque specCoupling Bolt42 Nm (31 lb-ft)
- 11Reinstall Lower Dash PanelPosition the driver's side lower dash panel/knee bolster and secure all fasteners. Ensure all clips are properly engaged.
- 12Reconnect Battery and Initialize SystemReconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. The power steering warning light should illuminate briefly then turn off. If available, use a scan tool to clear any stored DTCs and verify EPS module communication.
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
- Verify steering column covers are properly aligned and all screws are tight
- Confirm intermediate shaft coupling bolt is torqued to specification
Verification
- Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock with engine off to verify smooth operation with no binding
- Start engine and verify power steering warning light turns off
- With engine running, turn steering wheel to verify proper power assist in both directions
- Test drive vehicle at low speed to confirm normal steering operation and no warning lights
- Verify steering wheel returns to center properly after turns
- Use scan tool to verify no EPS-related diagnostic trouble codes are present