What is a steering angle sensor?
A steering angle sensor, also known as a steering position sensor, is a critical component in a vehicle’s steering system. It is responsible for providing the vehicle’s computer with information about the position of the steering wheel, which is used to assist with stability control, traction control, and other safety systems.
The steering angle sensors are in your car’s steering column next to the steering wheel. More than one sensor is usually present in case one of the sensors fails. Some sensors use electrical signals to measure steering wheel position (analog) whereas others use LED lighting to measure steering wheel position (digital).
Learn more about the steering angle sensor >
Causes of broken steering angle sensors:
Although the steering angle sensors are designed to last the life of your car, they can sometimes break due to wear, faulty wiring, car water leaks or physical damage to the steering column. When the sensors fail, they will need to be replaced in order to restore normal steering function.
Symptoms of faulty steering angle sensors:
- Warning Lights: A broken steering angle sensor can cause the warning lights related to stability control or traction control to illuminate on the dashboard, indicating a problem with these systems.
- Poor handling: If the sensor is not working properly, it can cause the car to handle poorly and make the steering feel loose or unresponsive.
- Reduced braking effectiveness: The sensor is also used to assist the ABS system, therefore a malfunctioning sensor can cause a reduction in the brake system effectiveness.
- Car pulling to one side: A broken steering angle sensor can cause the car to pull to one side when driving, as the sensor is responsible for providing the necessary information for the vehicle to maintain a straight line.
- Reduced accuracy of speedometer and odometer: A malfunctioning steering angle sensor can also affect the accuracy of the speedometer and odometer.
- Reduced power steering assistance: A broken steering angle sensor can cause a reduction in power steering assistance, making the steering feel heavier.
It is important to address this issue as soon as possible, as a broken steering angle sensor can affect the vehicle’s handling and stability, making it harder to control and increasing the risk of accidents. It is recommended to have a mechanic check the vehicle for a proper diagnosis.
New Steering Angle Sensor Installation & Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a new steering angle sensor? If so, we can provide a high-quality steering angle sensor part replacement for you.
At Grimmer Motors, our talented, honest and experienced mechanics can replace your car’s steering angle sensor. This will allow for improved steering control and vehicle safety. We can also diagnose traction control lights using our advanced scan tools.
For new steering angle sensors in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!