Steering Angle Sensor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering angle sensor located in the steering column of a 2007 Ram 3500 with 4WD.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering angle sensor × 1 — Mopar 05142120AB or equivalent
• Steering wheel bolt (if reuse not recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground with wheels pointed straight ahead
2. Engage parking brake and place transmission in park
3. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
4. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait at least 2 minutes before proceeding
5. Lower the steering column to its lowest position for easier access

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column covers
   Remove the screws securing the lower steering column cover. Typically there are 2-3 screws on the underside. Carefully separate the lower cover and set aside. Remove upper column cover by releasing tabs and lifting upward.
2. 2

   Mark steering wheel position
   Before removing the steering wheel, use a marker or tape to mark the exact position of the steering wheel relative to the steering shaft. This ensures proper alignment during reassembly and prevents steering wheel being off-center.
3. 3

   Remove airbag module
   Locate the airbag module access holes on the back of the steering wheel. Insert a small screwdriver or pick tool into each hole to release the airbag retaining clips. Carefully pull the airbag module away from the steering wheel. Disconnect the airbag electrical connector and horn connector. Place airbag module face-up in a safe location away from work area.
4. 4

   Remove steering wheel
   Remove the steering wheel retaining bolt using the appropriate socket. Do not reuse this bolt if specified by manufacturer. Install steering wheel puller onto the steering wheel and tighten evenly until the wheel releases from the shaft. Remove the steering wheel carefully while feeding the clockspring wiring through the center opening.
5. 5

   Remove clockspring
   Disconnect all electrical connectors from the clockspring assembly. Remove the screws or clips securing the clockspring to the steering column (typically 3-4 fasteners). Carefully lift the clockspring off the steering column shaft, noting its orientation and position for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Access steering angle sensor
   With the clockspring removed, verify whether the steering angle sensor is a separate column-mounted unit or is integrated into the clockspring assembly on this vehicle. On many 2007 Ram applications the sensor is part of the clockspring; confirm the design before proceeding. Note sensor orientation and any alignment marks.
7. 7

   Disconnect sensor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector for the steering angle sensor. Press the release tab and carefully disconnect the connector from the sensor. Inspect the connector pins for any damage or corrosion.
8. 8

   Remove steering angle sensor
   Remove the fasteners securing the steering angle sensor to the steering column housing (typically 2-3 Torx or Phillips screws). Carefully lift the sensor assembly off the steering shaft. Note the position of any alignment tabs or indexing features.
9. 9

   Install new steering angle sensor
   Position the new steering angle sensor onto the steering shaft, ensuring any alignment tabs or indexing features are properly engaged. The sensor must be installed in the correct orientation. Install and tighten the retaining fasteners securely.
10. 10

    Reconnect sensor connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the new steering angle sensor. Ensure the connector locks into place with an audible click.
11. 11

    Reinstall clockspring
    Verify the clockspring is centered (usually indicated by a window or locking mechanism). Position the clockspring onto the steering column shaft with proper alignment. Install and tighten the retaining fasteners. Reconnect all clockspring electrical connectors.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering wheel
    Route the clockspring wiring through the steering wheel center opening. Align the steering wheel to the shaft using the alignment marks made during disassembly. Install the steering wheel retaining bolt and tighten to the factory specification for this vehicle (verify exact torque in the service manual; do not rely on a generic value).
13. 13

    Reinstall airbag module
    Reconnect the horn and airbag electrical connectors to the airbag module. Position the airbag module onto the steering wheel and press firmly until the retaining clips engage on both sides. Verify the module is secure.
14. 14

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover and press down until tabs engage. Install the lower steering column cover and secure with the retaining screws.
15. 15

    Calibrate steering angle sensor
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine. Connect a capable OEM-level scan tool (generic OBD-II tools may not support this function) and access the steering angle sensor calibration function if the vehicle is equipped with it. Follow scan tool prompts to complete the calibration procedure with wheels pointed straight ahead. Clear any related diagnostic trouble codes.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and secured
2. Ensure steering wheel is properly aligned and centered when wheels are straight
3. Confirm airbag module is securely latched on both sides
4. Verify all column covers are properly installed and secured

Verification

• Start the engine and verify the airbag warning light functions normally (illuminates briefly then extinguishes)
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation with no binding
• Use scan tool to verify steering angle sensor is providing correct data (should read near 0 degrees with wheels straight)
• Test drive vehicle and verify electronic stability control and traction control systems function properly
• Verify no steering angle sensor or ESC related diagnostic codes are present
• Confirm steering wheel remains centered during straight-line driving

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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