Steering Angle Sensor

This procedure removes and replaces the steering angle sensor on a 2005 Dodge Viper, typically located on the steering column beneath the lower dash panel.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface with the steering wheel centered in the straight-ahead position.
2. Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
3. Disconnect the negative battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes for airbag system discharge.
4. Ensure the steering wheel does not move from the centered position during the procedure.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the fasteners securing the lower cover (typically Torx screws accessed from the underside). Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside. Note: Socket set (metric and SAE)
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover (if necessary)
   If the upper steering column cover obstructs access to the sensor, remove the fasteners securing it and separate the upper cover from the column. Note the location of any clips or alignment tabs for reassembly.
3. 3

   Locate the steering angle sensor
   Identify the steering angle sensor mounted on the steering column assembly below the steering wheel. The sensor is a circular or disc-shaped unit that wraps around the steering column shaft with an electrical connector on its housing. On the 2005 Viper, the steering angle sensor location and whether it is integrated into the clockspring assembly should be confirmed against the factory service manual before proceeding, as its exact mounting varies by platform.
4. 4

   Disconnect the sensor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the steering angle sensor. Press the locking tab or release mechanism and carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the sensor. Note the routing of the harness for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove sensor mounting fasteners
   Remove the mounting fasteners securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column. The number and type of fasteners securing the sensor should be confirmed against the factory service manual before removal. Keep track of fastener locations as they may be different lengths.
6. 6

   Remove the steering angle sensor
   Carefully slide the steering angle sensor off the steering column shaft. The sensor housing may be split into two halves that separate around the column. Take care not to damage the sensor ring or any alignment pins during removal.
7. 7

   Inspect the steering column and sensor mounting area
   Examine the steering column shaft and sensor mounting surface for any debris, damage, or wear. Clean the mounting area with a lint-free cloth if necessary. Verify that any alignment pins or locating features on the column are intact.
8. 8

   Install the new steering angle sensor
   Position the new steering angle sensor around the steering column shaft, ensuring proper alignment with any locating pins or tabs. If the sensor housing is split, align both halves and ensure the sensor ring is properly seated on the column shaft. Verify the steering wheel has not moved from the centered position.
9. 9

   Install sensor mounting fasteners
   Install the mounting fasteners and tighten them evenly in a cross pattern to the specified torque. If no torque specification is provided, tighten fasteners snugly to avoid crushing the sensor housing while ensuring secure mounting.
10. 10

    Reconnect the electrical connector
    Route the wiring harness as noted during removal and reconnect the electrical connector to the steering angle sensor. Ensure the locking tab engages fully and the connection is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Reinstall the upper steering column cover (if removed), aligning any clips or tabs. Install the lower steering column cover, ensuring all fasteners are properly seated and tightened securely.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and calibrate sensor
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Using a factory-level scan tool, access the steering angle sensor calibration function and perform the zero-point calibration procedure. This typically involves confirming the steering wheel is centered and initiating the learn procedure through the scan tool menu. Note: After installation, the steering angle sensor may require recalibration using a factory-level scan tool or equivalent; verify against the factory service manual which systems (ABS and, if equipped, stability control) depend on this calibration, as the 2005 Viper may not be equipped with electronic stability control.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels and covers are fully seated and all fasteners are tightened.
2. Verify the wiring harness is routed clear of any moving steering column components.
3. Confirm the steering wheel remains centered throughout the procedure to maintain proper sensor alignment.

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify that no steering-related warning lights (ABS, traction control, stability control) are illuminated on the instrument cluster.
• Using a scan tool, confirm the steering angle sensor is reading 0 degrees (or within ±5 degrees) with the steering wheel centered.
• Turn the steering wheel slowly left and right while monitoring the scan tool to verify the sensor is reporting smooth, continuous angle changes in both directions.
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area and verify that electronic stability control and traction control systems function normally without warning lights.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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