Steering Angle Sensor

This procedure removes and replaces the steering angle sensor, typically located in the steering column assembly beneath the steering wheel on the 2008 Dodge Viper.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake.
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key.
3. Center the steering wheel so the front wheels are pointing straight ahead. Mark the steering wheel position relative to the column for reference.
4. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 2 minutes before proceeding.
5. Adjust driver's seat fully rearward for working access to the steering column area.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Locate the lower steering column cover assembly beneath the steering wheel. Remove the Torx fasteners securing the lower cover (typically 3-4 Torx fasteners around the perimeter). Carefully separate the lower cover from the upper cover and remove it from the vehicle. If an upper cover is present and obstructs access, remove its fasteners and set aside.
2. 2

   Identify steering angle sensor location
   With the column covers removed, locate the steering angle sensor. On the 2008 Viper, the steering angle sensor is located in the steering column assembly beneath the steering wheel and is typically integrated into the clockspring / steering column module. Verify in factory service information whether the sensor is separately serviceable or whether the complete clockspring assembly must be replaced. It will have an electrical connector with multiple pins.
3. 3

   Disconnect steering angle sensor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the steering angle sensor. Press the locking tab or release mechanism (typically a sliding lock or squeeze-tab design) and carefully disconnect the harness connector from the sensor. Route the connector clear of the work area.
4. 4

   Remove steering angle sensor mounting fasteners
   Identify the fasteners securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column. Remove the 2-3 mounting fasteners (typically Torx screws). Support the sensor as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
5. 5

   Remove steering angle sensor from column
   Carefully slide or lift the steering angle sensor off the steering column shaft. Note the orientation and alignment of any indexing features, tabs, or keyed slots that ensure proper sensor positioning. Do NOT rotate the steering wheel or steering shaft during this step.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting area and prepare new sensor
   Inspect the steering column mounting surface for damage, debris, or corrosion. Clean the mounting area if necessary. Verify the new steering angle sensor matches the original part and that any alignment features or indexing tabs are intact. Check that the sensor is in its neutral/centered position if it has a visible indexing ring or gear.
7. 7

   Install new steering angle sensor
   Align the new steering angle sensor with the steering column shaft, ensuring any indexing tabs, slots, or keyed features engage properly. Slide the sensor onto the column shaft until it seats fully against the mounting surface. Verify the sensor orientation matches the original installation position noted during removal.
8. 8

   Install steering angle sensor mounting fasteners
   Install the 2-3 mounting fasteners and tighten them evenly in a cross-pattern to secure the sensor to the steering column. Tighten fasteners snugly but avoid overtightening into plastic or composite column components.
9. 9

   Reconnect steering angle sensor electrical connector
   Reconnect the electrical harness connector to the steering angle sensor. Ensure the connector seats fully and the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug the connector to verify it is secured.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover (if removed) back onto the column and install its fasteners. Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and column housing. Install the Torx fasteners around the perimeter and tighten evenly. Verify all cover edges are flush and properly seated.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize steering angle sensor
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off). Connect a scan tool that supports the 2008 Viper's ESC/ABS module and perform the steering angle sensor zero-set / calibration procedure per the factory service routine (this may require confirming the wheel is centered and, on some Chrysler platforms, driving the vehicle straight to complete learning). Complete the calibration procedure and verify no fault codes are present. and verify no fault codes are present.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column covers are properly seated and all fasteners are tightened.
2. Verify the steering wheel remains centered and all electrical connections are secure.
3. Return the driver's seat to the desired position.

Verification

• Start the engine and verify the steering angle sensor operates correctly by monitoring live data with the scan tool while slowly turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock. The sensor should show smooth, accurate angle changes in both directions.
• Verify no warning lights (ABS, ESC, traction control) are illuminated on the instrument cluster.
• Perform a test drive at low speed in a safe area and verify stability control and ABS systems function normally without false activation.
• Confirm steering wheel returns to center properly and no pulling or unusual handling characteristics are present.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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