06 TB CO455 Steering Wheel Position Sensor

[B33p3r]

Can anyone tell me if the Steer sensor has to be recalibrated after an alignment? Before I go and purchase a new sensor I want to make sure the fault isn't being caused by the sensor not being calibrated? Also if anyone has experience replacing or cleaning the sensor I'd be very interested in the procedure.
Thanks Bill

 

[HARDTRAILZ]

An alignment should not affect it. Never has mine

 

[24v 4.2]

The only tip I have for replacement:

The new sensor will have a spring sticking out of one side. Do not remove the spring until the new sensor is installed and everything is bolted back up.

You will want to secure the steering wheel to keep it straight before beginning.

 

[rtliquid]

I don't mean to sound like a smart-ass or a complete ignoramus, but why is this even a thing? My steering wheel position sensor is my eyeballs, and whenever I got an alignment, the shop would visibly make sure the steering wheel was straight. What's the purpose of having a feedback mechanism now? Please enlighten me. Is technology going too far just because we can?

 

[HARDTRAILZ]

It feeds info to the other systems like stabilitrak. It is not about visual at all.

 

[rtliquid]

OK, there seems to be some merit there. Thanks.

 

[B33p3r]

It ties into the ABS system somehow also. I think when the ABS is active through a turn it wants to know the steer angle so it can brake the wheels correctly. Don't quote me on that though.
Thanks for the replies! I read elsewhere for other vehicles the steer sensors have to be recalibrated after alignment but I could never find anything that said the trailblazer needs to recalibrate.

 

[B33p3r]

Why does steering wheel need to be fastened in place during replacement? Are there tabs or other mechanisms that allow it to be installed in one position only and to make it easier to line them up you keep the wheel from moving OR does the computer need to know its calibrated in a precise position with respect to the wheels in which case an alignment would have an affect on the sensor?

 

[DAlastDON]

You are just removing a bolt from the steering shaft so the SWPS can slide off. The steering wheel will be free to move without it. The steering wheel is secured to prevent damage to the clock spring.

 

[B33p3r]

Would've never thought of the clock spring. Thanks.

 

[Mooseman]

There is a tool specifically designed for the hole under the steering column to keep the steering wheel straight, made by Kent-Moore (aka: Spend-Moore). I found an Allen key that works in there too, don't remember the size. The usual method is with bungee cords.

 

[coolasice]

I just used the seat belt through the steering wheel..