steering
Steering Angle Sensor
for 2021 Honda Civic 1.5L I4 Turbo · FWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.0 h
Tools
8
Steps
12
This procedure replaces the steering angle sensor located in the steering column assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbo engine.
Warnings
⚠️Disconnecting the battery will erase steering angle sensor calibration. Vehicle MUST be aligned with wheels straight before disconnecting battery to minimize recalibration drift.
⚠After replacement, the steering angle sensor must be calibrated using a Honda diagnostic scan tool (HDS) or equivalent. Failure to calibrate will cause VSA/stability control malfunctions and warning lights.
⚠Do not turn the steering wheel after battery disconnection until sensor is replaced and calibrated, or additional calibration steps may be required.
ℹ️This vehicle uses electric power steering with no hydraulic fluid.
Tools required
Trim removal tool setEssential
Phillips screwdriverEssential
Flathead screwdriver
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrench (5-30 Nm range)Essential
T30 Torx bitEssential
Wire brush or electrical contact cleaner
Flashlight
Parts
- Steering angle sensor × 1 — Honda OEM 35700-TBA-A01 or equivalent
- Steering column cover screws (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
- Turn steering wheel to center position with front wheels pointing straight ahead
- Turn ignition off and remove key
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for airbag system to discharge
- Adjust steering column to lowest and most extended position for access
Procedure
- 1Remove lower steering column coversUse trim removal tool to carefully pry out the sides of the lower steering column cover. Remove the two Phillips screws at the bottom of the lower cover. Pull the lower cover away from the column and disconnect any electrical connectors if present (such as for tilt/telescoping switch).
- 2Remove upper steering column coverLocate and remove the two screws securing the upper steering column cover (one on each side). Carefully lift the upper cover away from the column, being mindful of any clips along the rear edge. Set covers aside in a clean area.Torque specCover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 3Locate steering angle sensorIdentify the steering angle sensor mounted on the steering column beneath the covers. It is a round or rectangular module with an electrical connector, typically located just below the column lock mechanism. Note the orientation and routing of the wiring harness.
- 4Disconnect sensor electrical connectorPress the locking tab on the steering angle sensor electrical connector and carefully pull the connector straight out. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If connector is difficult to access, use a flathead screwdriver to gently press the locking tab while pulling.
- 5Remove sensor mounting boltsUsing a 10mm socket or T30 Torx bit (depending on model year variation), remove the mounting bolts securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column. There are typically 2-3 bolts. Support the sensor as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.Torque specMounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
- 6Remove steering angle sensorCarefully slide the steering angle sensor off the steering shaft. The sensor may have internal gearing or optical sensors that fit around the shaft. Note the orientation and any alignment marks for proper installation of the new sensor.⚠Do not rotate the internal components of the old sensor while removing it, as debris or broken parts could fall into the steering column.
- 7Prepare new sensorRemove the new steering angle sensor from its packaging. Verify it matches the old sensor. If the new sensor has a shipping lock or pin to hold internal components in place, do NOT remove it yet. Clean the steering shaft area with electrical contact cleaner or a wire brush if any debris is present.
- 8Install new steering angle sensorAlign the new steering angle sensor with the steering shaft, ensuring any alignment marks or keyways match properly. Slide the sensor onto the shaft until it seats fully against the column mounting surface. If the sensor has a shipping lock, remove it now according to manufacturer instructions.
- 9Install sensor mounting boltsInstall the mounting bolts hand-tight first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque them to specification in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are used. Ensure the sensor is seated flush against the column with no gaps.Torque specMounting Bolts26 Nm (19 lb-ft)
- 10Reconnect electrical connectorPlug the electrical connector into the new steering angle sensor until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is locked in place. Route the wiring harness as it was originally to prevent interference with moving parts.
- 11Reinstall steering column coversPosition the upper steering column cover and secure with the two screws on each side, torquing to specification. Install the lower cover by reconnecting any electrical connectors first, then aligning the clips and securing the bottom screws. Verify all clips are fully engaged and covers fit properly without gaps.Torque specCover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 12Reconnect battery and perform calibrationReconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Connect a Honda HDS scan tool or compatible diagnostic tool. Navigate to the VSA system menu and select 'Steering Angle Sensor Calibration' or 'Neutral Position Learning'. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete calibration with wheels straight ahead.⚠️Sensor calibration is mandatory. Driving without proper calibration will cause VSA, traction control, and stability control systems to malfunction, potentially creating unsafe driving conditions.
Reassembly
- Verify all steering column covers are properly secured with no rattles or loose clips
- Return steering column adjustment to driver's preferred position
- Clear any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been set during the procedure
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON and verify no VSA, ABS, or steering system warning lights remain illuminated after calibration
- Start engine and verify electric power steering functions normally with no unusual noises
- Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to verify sensor is reading properly (monitor with scan tool if available)
- Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area to confirm stability control and VSA systems function normally
- Verify steering wheel returns to center properly after turns