What are the reasons for the electronic power steering wheel not returning to center automatically?
3 Answers
The reasons for the electronic power steering wheel not returning to center automatically are as follows: 1. Damage to the vehicle's steering gear. It is necessary to check whether there is a lack of lubrication, whether the lubrication oil has reached the replacement cycle, or whether there is oil leakage. 2. The four-wheel alignment system data of the vehicle is disordered, and a four-wheel alignment needs to be performed again. The following are the solutions: 1. Adjust the four-wheel alignment: Four-wheel alignment refers to the relative position relationship between the wheels and the chassis (wheels, steering knuckles, front axle, etc.). If the four-wheel alignment parameters change, it will affect the steering wheel not returning to center, heavy steering, steering deviation, and tire wear. 2. Replace the steering gear: If the steering wheel still does not return to center after adjusting the four-wheel alignment, the cause of the four-wheel alignment can be ruled out. After ruling out the four-wheel alignment, the most likely cause is the steering gear. When the steering gear fails and the reverse efficiency decreases, the steering wheel will be difficult to return to center.
I discovered an issue with the electric power steering wheel not returning to center. First, consider the wheel alignment problem, as incorrect wheel angles directly affect the return force. Last time, I had severe tire wear which made steering return difficult. Also, check the electric power steering sensor; its signal deviation is like a phone's inaccurate positioning, causing the steering wheel to receive incorrect commands. If it has rained recently, water ingress into the steering column could cause rust and sticking. Additionally, aging suspension arm bushings or loose ball joints can disrupt the steering geometry. It's best to first use a diagnostic tool to read the steering wheel torque data stream, then lift the chassis and shake the wheels to check for excessive suspension play. These steps should help identify the root cause.
I've encountered the issue of the steering wheel not returning to center multiple times, with tire problems being the most common cause. Uneven tire pressure on both sides or different degrees of tire wear can cause this, much like how a person with one leg shorter than the other walks unsteadily. Another reason could be a malfunction in the electric power steering motor, similar to an electric door getting stuck and not closing properly. A stuck steering column bearing can also lead to this situation, often accompanied by squeaking sounds when lubrication is insufficient. I've also seen cases where aftermarket steering wheel modifications with decorative covers compressed wiring harnesses, causing similar issues. It's recommended to check whether the power supply voltage to the power steering control module is normal, and then test if the steering wheel assist curve matching is accurate.
