Electronic power steering tight and shudders

NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU

MEMBER
2011 TOYOTA RAV4
2.4L
4 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

When driving the steering is very stiff and when I try to correct it, it is so hard to move the steering wheel that the steering over corrects causing the car to be dangerous to drive. When stationary if I flick the steering wheel it continues to shudder from side to side for about 10 seconds. I have removed the complete unit and removed the electric motor and the shaft that drives the crown wheel gear. Then the steering shaft is free to spin. But when the pinion gear is installed, it is too stiff to turn.
Please advise me what I need to look at.
Thanks, NOEL

5 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Electric power steering is basically the ECU determining how much power steering is needed. So, when there is an issue with it, the vast majority of issues come from the motor.

However, the shuddering could be a faulty sensor that is telling the motor incorrect data. So, we need to do two things to start. First are there any codes? Here is a guide that will help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Next, we need to use a scan tool and monitor the steering angle sensor.

Basically, you need to point the wheel so that it is going straight, and the angle sensor should be close to 0 degrees. Then you need to turn slowly from lock to lock and the number should move steady and smoothly.

If it jumps rapidly then the angle sensor is faulty.

I attached some info below on this system.

If all this checks out, then I would replace the motor. Let me know what you find, and we can go from there.

Thanks

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Monday, February 21st, 2022 AT 6:09 AM

NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU

MEMBER
17 POSTS

Thanks, I will check it out tomorrow. I have the whole thing out on the bench. I will jack up the wheels also and check the steering rack is moving freely. NOEL.

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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 AT 12:25 AM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Sounds great. Thanks for the update and let us know how this turns out. Thanks

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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 AT 5:48 PM

NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU

MEMBER
17 POSTS

I am reassembling the unit and refitting it today. While the unit was off the rack, I have also checked the rack is not too tight or rough and it seems okay.
NOEL.

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Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022 AT 11:44 AM

KASEKENNY