steering
Electric Power Steering Module
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.5 h
Tools
10
Steps
11
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) module on the 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with 2.5L I4 AWD engine.
Warnings
⚠️Disconnect the battery negative terminal and wait at least 3 minutes before starting work to allow the airbag system to fully discharge
⚠The EPS module contains sensitive electronics. Avoid dropping or impacting the unit and keep away from moisture
⚠Do not force steering wheel during installation with module disconnected, as this may damage the steering angle sensor
ℹ️This vehicle uses electric power steering with no hydraulic fluid. If you have difficulty turning the steering wheel, verify this is an EPS-equipped vehicle
Tools required
10mm socket and ratchetEssential
12mm socket and ratchetEssential
14mm socket and ratchetEssential
17mm socket and ratchetEssential
Torque wrench (10-150 Nm range)Essential
Flat-blade screwdriverEssential
Trim panel removal tools
Wire brush
Electrical contact cleaner
Multimeter
Parts
- Electric Power Steering Module × 1 — Use OEM specification
- EPS module mounting bolts (if corroded) × 3 — M8x1.25 bolts
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
- Turn steering wheel to center position and note alignment
- Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait minimum 3 minutes
- Allow engine compartment to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
- Remove driver-side lower dashboard panel for access to steering column area
Procedure
- 1Access EPS module locationThe EPS module is located on the steering column assembly below the dashboard. Remove the lower steering column cover by removing the cover screws. Carefully lower the cover and disconnect any electrical connectors for lights or switches attached to it.Torque specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 2Disconnect EPS module electrical connectorsLocate the main EPS module connector (large multi-pin connector). Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out from the module. If present, disconnect the secondary ground wire by removing the 10mm bolt. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage.⚠Do not pull on wires; grip the connector body only to avoid damaging the harness
- 3Remove torque sensor connectorLocate the steering torque sensor connector near the EPS module. Press the locking tab and disconnect this connector. This is typically a smaller connector than the main power connector. Mark or photograph connector orientation if connectors appear similar.ℹ️Some model years may have an integrated connector; verify your specific configuration before proceeding
- 4Remove EPS module mounting boltsLocate the three mounting bolts securing the EPS module to the steering column bracket. Using a 12mm socket, remove all three bolts. Support the module with one hand as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.⚠The module weighs approximately 3-4 kg; ensure proper support before removing final boltTorque specMounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
- 5Remove EPS module from vehicleCarefully maneuver the EPS module away from the steering column. You may need to rotate or angle the module to clear the steering shaft and surrounding components. Once clear, remove the module from the vehicle and place it on a clean, dry workspace.⚠Avoid hitting or bumping the module against hard surfaces during removal
- 6Inspect mounting area and prepare for installationInspect the steering column mounting bracket for damage or excessive corrosion. Clean mounting surfaces with a wire brush if necessary. Verify that the steering shaft splines are clean and undamaged. Check that the steering wheel remains in the centered position.ℹ️If steering shaft shows excessive play or wear, further diagnosis may be required before module replacement
- 7Install new EPS modulePosition the new EPS module onto the steering column, aligning the module shaft with the steering column shaft splines. Ensure proper engagement by gently rotating the module while applying light pressure. The module should slide fully into position without force.⚠Misalignment of splines can damage the torque sensor or steering shaft; ensure proper alignment before proceeding
- 8Install and torque mounting boltsInsert all three mounting bolts by hand and thread them in at least 3-4 turns to verify proper alignment. Tighten bolts in a star pattern to ensure even seating. Torque all mounting bolts to specification using a torque wrench.Torque specMounting Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
- 9Reconnect electrical connectorsReconnect the torque sensor connector first, ensuring it clicks into place. Then connect the main EPS module connector, pressing firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab engage. If applicable, reconnect the ground wire and tighten the 10mm bolt securely.⚠Verify connectors are fully seated; partial connections will cause EPS malfunction and diagnostic trouble codes
- 10Reinstall steering column coversReconnect any electrical connectors to the lower steering column cover (if applicable). Position the cover back in place and install the cover screws, torquing to specification. Ensure all trim pieces are properly aligned and seated.Torque specCover Screws11 Nm (8 lb-ft)
- 11Reconnect battery and initialize systemReconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. The EPS warning light should illuminate briefly then extinguish. If the light remains on, proceed to verification steps.ℹ️Some vehicles may require a steering angle sensor calibration using a diagnostic scan tool after EPS module replacement
Reassembly
- Reinstall driver-side lower dashboard panel if removed during preparation
- Verify all trim panels and covers are securely fastened
- Ensure no tools or parts were left in the work area
Verification
- Start the engine and verify the EPS warning light is not illuminated on the instrument cluster
- With the engine running, turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock and verify smooth power assist operation with no unusual noises
- Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper steering operation and centering
- Check for diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner; clear any stored codes if module was replaced due to failure
- Verify steering wheel returns to center position smoothly after turning
- If EPS warning light remains on or steering feels abnormal, perform steering angle sensor calibration using manufacturer-approved diagnostic equipment