steering

Steering Angle Sensor

for 2020 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · RWD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.3 h

Tools

Steps

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering angle sensor located in the steering column of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 engine.

Warnings

⚠️Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 2 minutes before working near airbag components to allow capacitors to discharge

⚠The steering angle sensor must be calibrated after installation using a scan tool capable of Ford steering system calibration

⚠Do not rotate the steering wheel with the intermediate shaft disconnected as this can damage the clockspring

ℹ️Mark the steering wheel position relative to the column before beginning work to aid in reassembly alignment

Tools required

Socket set (metric)Essential

Torque wrenchEssential

Trim panel removal tools

Ratchet and extensionsEssential

Flathead screwdriver

T20 Torx driverEssential

OBD-II scan tool with steering angle sensor calibration capabilityEssential

Parts

Steering angle sensor × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
Turn ignition off and remove key
Center the steering wheel and note position
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 2 minutes
Lower the steering column to its lowest position and extend fully outward for access

Procedure

1
Remove lower steering column covers
Remove the two lower steering column cover screws using a T20 Torx driver. Separate the lower cover from the upper cover by releasing the retaining clips. Pull the lower cover away from the column and set aside.
Torque spec
Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
2
Remove upper steering column cover
Release the clips securing the upper steering column cover. Carefully lift the upper cover up and over the steering wheel, taking care not to damage the airbag wiring or clockspring. Set the cover aside.
3
Disconnect steering angle sensor electrical connector
Locate the steering angle sensor electrical connector on the steering column below the steering wheel. Press the locking tab and disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor. Move the wiring harness out of the way.
4
Remove steering angle sensor mounting bolts
Locate the steering angle sensor mounted to the steering column. Remove the mounting bolts securing the sensor to the column using an appropriate socket. Note the sensor orientation and position before removal.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
5
Remove steering angle sensor
Carefully slide the steering angle sensor off the steering column shaft. Note the alignment marks and internal splines for proper installation of the new sensor. Inspect the mounting surface on the column for damage or debris.
6
Install new steering angle sensor
Align the new steering angle sensor with the steering column shaft, ensuring the internal splines engage properly. Slide the sensor onto the shaft until it seats fully against the mounting surface. Verify the sensor is oriented correctly with the electrical connector facing the proper direction.
7
Install sensor mounting bolts
Install the steering angle sensor mounting bolts and torque to specification. Ensure the sensor is seated properly before tightening. Do not overtighten as this can damage the sensor housing.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
8
Reconnect electrical connector
Reconnect the electrical connector to the steering angle sensor. Ensure the connector locks securely with an audible click. Verify the wiring harness is routed properly and will not interfere with steering column operation.
9
Reinstall steering column covers
Position the upper steering column cover over the column and press down to engage the retaining clips. Install the lower cover and secure with the cover screws torqued to specification.
Torque spec
Cover Screws14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
10
Reconnect battery and calibrate sensor
Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Connect an OBD-II scan tool capable of Ford steering angle sensor calibration. Follow the scan tool prompts to perform steering angle sensor calibration. This typically involves centering the steering wheel and allowing the system to learn the neutral position. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes related to the steering angle sensor.

Reassembly

Verify all steering column covers are properly secured and clips engaged
Ensure steering column adjustments operate smoothly without binding
Confirm all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked

Verification

Turn ignition to ON position and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated after system self-check
Start engine and verify electronic power steering operates normally without warning lights
Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock and verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
Use scan tool to verify steering angle sensor is reading correctly and reporting angle changes as wheel is turned
Test drive vehicle at low speed to confirm proper steering operation and stability control functionality
Verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present for steering angle sensor or related systems