Steering Angle Sensor

This procedure replaces the steering angle sensor located in the steering column assembly on 2015-2020 Ford F-150 trucks with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector seal (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface with wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
4. Mark steering wheel position at 12 o'clock for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the lower dash trim panel below the steering column. Use trim tools to carefully pry away the panel. Remove the T20 Torx screws securing the lower steering column cover (typically 4 screws). Separate the upper and lower column covers and remove from vehicle.
2. 2

   Access steering angle sensor
   Locate the steering angle sensor assembly on the steering column shaft, typically positioned just below the steering wheel attachment point. The sensor is a circular module with an electrical connector on the side.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the steering angle sensor electrical connector and carefully pull the connector away from the sensor module. Inspect the connector and seal for damage or corrosion. Clean contacts if necessary using electrical contact cleaner.
   ⚠Do not force connector removal as locking tabs can break easily.
4. 4

   Remove sensor mounting screws
   Remove the screws securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column (typically 3-4 screws around the perimeter). Keep screws organized for reinstallation. Note the orientation of the sensor before removal.
   ℹ️Some sensors use T30 Torx screws while others use Phillips head screws depending on production date.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove steering angle sensor
   Carefully slide the steering angle sensor module off the steering shaft. The sensor ring fits over the shaft and may require slight rotation to clear any alignment features. Do not damage the internal ring mechanism during removal.
   ⚠Avoid dropping the sensor as internal components are fragile and calibration can be affected.
6. 6

   Prepare new sensor
   Remove the new steering angle sensor from packaging. Verify part number matches the original sensor. Check that the sensor ring rotates freely and that the electrical connector is clean and undamaged.
7. 7

   Install new steering angle sensor
   Align the new steering angle sensor with the steering shaft, ensuring any alignment pins or tabs are properly positioned. Slide the sensor onto the shaft until it seats fully against the column. Verify the sensor is oriented correctly with the electrical connector accessible.
   ⚠Ensure steering wheel has not been rotated from straight-ahead position during sensor replacement.
8. 8

   Install mounting screws
   Install the sensor mounting screws and tighten in a star pattern to ensure even seating. Torque screws to specification. Verify sensor does not have excessive play or movement after installation.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the electrical connector to the steering angle sensor, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab engages fully. Gently tug on the connector to verify secure attachment.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper and lower steering column covers around the column, ensuring all tabs align properly. Install the T20 Torx screws and tighten securely. Reinstall the lower dash trim panel, pressing firmly to engage all retaining clips.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and calibrate sensor
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Connect the OBD-II scan tool and navigate to the steering angle sensor calibration function. Follow scan tool prompts to complete the calibration procedure with wheels straight ahead. Clear any steering-related DTCs.
    ⚠️Failure to properly calibrate the steering angle sensor will result in traction control, stability control, and steering assist malfunctions.

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are properly secured and aligned
2. Check that no tools or parts have been left in the steering column area
3. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked

Verification

• Start engine and verify no warning lights related to steering, traction control, or stability control are illuminated on instrument cluster
• Turn steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while stationary to verify sensor is tracking properly (monitor with scan tool if available)
• Perform a test drive at low speed, verifying electric power steering operates normally and no warning messages appear
• Use scan tool to verify steering angle sensor reads 0 degrees with wheels straight ahead
• Confirm traction control and stability control systems are functioning by observing indicator lights behave normally during startup

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