What problems will occur if the steering angle sensor is broken?
2 Answers
The steering angle sensor being broken will cause the car's steering wheel position light to stay on and cannot be turned off. The car's steering angle sensor mainly measures the rotation angle of the steering wheel when the car is turning. It is generally installed in the steering column below the steering wheel and connected to the PCM via the CAN bus. If the steering angle sensor is broken, the following problems will occur: After detecting the car's steering signal, the steering angle sensor sends the correct steering command to the car's electronic control unit, providing a basis for the car's steering range. The car's electronic control unit determines the lateral force during steering based on the signals from the speed sensor and the steering wheel angle sensor, controlling the body's tilt to ensure the car follows the driver's steering intention. If the steering angle sensor malfunctions, the driver's judgment of the lateral force during steering and the control of the body's tilt will be inaccurate. Systems such as the ESP electronic stability program, active suspension system, EPS electronic speed-sensitive power steering, and adaptive headlights all require the assistance of the steering wheel angle sensor. When the steering wheel angle sensor fails or is damaged, these systems will not function properly. Moreover, it will affect the car's steering, leading to issues such as incorrect direction, shaking, deviation, and unresponsiveness, posing safety hazards during driving. If the steering angle sensor fails, it should be repaired or replaced promptly to ensure normal steering and driving safety.
I've been driving for over a decade and was completely caught off guard when the steering angle sensor failed. That day, the warning light suddenly flashed, the steering wheel became unusually heavy, requiring much more effort to turn, and the car felt shaky and unstable during turns—especially on mountain roads where it nearly caused an accident. Later, the mechanic explained that this sensor monitors the steering wheel angle, and if it malfunctions, the entire electronic stability system fails, potentially affecting the ABS as well, making the car prone to skidding or losing control, especially on slippery roads. The repair cost me over 500 yuan, but it prevented greater danger. My advice: always pay attention to warning lights while driving, and get them checked as soon as they appear—don't risk major issues for minor savings. Safety comes first.
