Steering Angle Sensor

Replace the steering angle sensor located in the steering column to restore proper electronic stability control and steering position feedback.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column cover screw grommets (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position
4. Mark the steering wheel position at 12 o'clock with tape for reference
5. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
6. Lower steering column to lowest position using tilt adjustment

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Using Torx T20 bit, remove the screws securing the lower steering column shroud. There are typically 4 screws - 2 on the bottom and 2 on the sides. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, disconnecting any wire clips if present. Set cover and screws aside.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   Remove the upper steering column shroud by releasing the retaining clips at the rear of the cover. Gently pull the upper cover upward and away from the steering column. Be careful not to damage the wiring harness for the multifunction switch.
3. 3

   Disconnect steering angle sensor connector
   Locate the steering angle sensor electrical connector on the steering column just below the ignition switch area. Press the connector lock tab and pull the connector straight out from the sensor. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Remove steering angle sensor mounting fasteners
   Using Torx T30 bit, remove the 3 mounting bolts securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column. The sensor is typically mounted to a bracket that wraps around the column shaft. Keep track of any spacers or washers on the mounting bolts.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove steering angle sensor
   Carefully slide the steering angle sensor assembly off the steering column shaft. The sensor has a circular opening that fits over the shaft. Note the orientation and position of the sensor for installation of the new unit. Check for any wear marks or damage to the column shaft surface.
   ⚠Do not rotate the steering shaft or allow it to turn during sensor removal
6. 6

   Install new steering angle sensor
   Position the new steering angle sensor over the steering column shaft, ensuring it slides on smoothly and is oriented in the same position as the original sensor. The sensor should seat flush against the mounting bracket. Verify the steering wheel is still centered and has not rotated.
7. 7

   Install sensor mounting bolts
   Install the 3 mounting bolts with any spacers or washers in their original positions. Tighten the bolts evenly in a star pattern to the specified torque of 31.0 Nm (23.0 lb-ft). Ensure the sensor assembly is secure and does not rotate on the column.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Reconnect the steering angle sensor electrical connector, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Verify the connector lock tab is fully engaged. Route any wire harness clips back to their original positions.
9. 9

   Reinstall steering column covers
   Position the upper steering column shroud over the column, ensuring all wiring is routed properly and not pinched. Snap the cover into place. Install the lower shroud and secure with the 4 Torx screws to 12.0 Nm (9.0 lb-ft). Verify all covers are properly seated.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and perform calibration
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Connect the OBD-II scan tool and access the steering angle sensor calibration function. Follow the scan tool prompts to calibrate the sensor, which typically involves turning the steering wheel from lock to lock and then centering it. Complete the calibration procedure and verify no fault codes are present.
    ⚠Sensor calibration must be completed or stability control and ABS systems will not function properly

Reassembly

1. Verify steering wheel is centered and matches the alignment mark made during preparation
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Check that steering column covers are properly secured and all trim clips are engaged
4. Return steering column to driver's preferred tilt position

Verification

• Start the engine and verify no warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster, particularly the stability control or ABS lights
• Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock and verify smooth operation with no binding
• Use scan tool to verify steering angle sensor is reporting accurate angle data and changes smoothly as wheel is turned
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed and verify stability control and traction control systems function normally
• Verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present in the ABS, stability control, or steering systems

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle