What does a steering wheel with an exclamation mark warning light indicate?
1 Answers
A steering wheel with an exclamation mark signifies the Electric Power Steering (EPS) indicator light, which typically disappears immediately after engine startup. The Electric Power Steering system (EPS) is a power-assisted steering system that directly relies on an electric motor to provide auxiliary torque. Compared to traditional Hydraulic Power Steering systems (HPS), EPS offers numerous advantages. The EPS system primarily consists of components such as a torque sensor, vehicle speed sensor, electric motor, reduction mechanism, and Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The Electric Power Steering system evolved from traditional mechanical steering systems. It utilizes power generated by an electric motor to assist drivers in steering operations. The system mainly comprises three major components: signal sensing devices (including torque sensors, steering angle sensors, and vehicle speed sensors), steering assist mechanisms (electric motor, clutch, and reduction transmission mechanism), and electronic control devices. The electric motor operates only when assistance is required. When the driver manipulates the steering wheel, the torque and angle sensors generate corresponding voltage signals based on the input torque and steering angle. The vehicle speed sensor detects speed signals, and the control unit issues commands to control the motor's operation based on these voltage and speed signals, thereby generating the necessary steering assistance.