Modern vehicles' steering and stability systems are highly electronic, and one of their key components is the steering angle sensor (SAS). It detects steering wheel rotation angle and sends a signal to the vehicle's Electronic Stability Control (ESC/ESP).
After a four-wheel alignment, suspension repair, or battery power loss, the steering angle may shift, causing instrument panel warning lights or steering wheel deflection.
Fortunately, using an Autel MaxiSys scanner, you can easily perform a steering angle sensor calibration and restore precise steering control. This article will detail how to perform this procedure using the Autel MaxiSys diagnostic tablet.
Application of steering angle sensor in car
Why Steering Angle Calibration is Needed?
Steering angle sensors have a significant impact on many automotive electronic systems, such as adaptive cruise control, anti-lock braking systems, and lane keeping assist. Failure of the steering angle sensor can lead to a range of issues, seriously impacting driving safety.
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The steering wheel is not turning in the same direction as the car is going:
When the steering angle sensor fails, your steering wheel will be crooked. Even if you perform mechanical positioning methods such as four-wheel alignment, the memory point in the ECU will still be crooked, which will cause the car to not drive according to the direction of your steering wheel.
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Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) malfunction:
Steering angle misalignment can directly lead to functional disorders in the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Unable to identify the correct steering wheel center position, the system will misjudge the driver's intention, causing the lane keeping assist system to "grab the steering wheel" or automatically exit.
It also renders functions that rely on precise steering, such as adaptive cruise control and automatic parking, ineffective.
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The instrument panel lights up:
When the steering angle sensor is inaccurate, some fault lights will appear on the dashboard. For example, the ESP/ESC, ABS, steering wheel and other warning lights will light up at the same time, indicating that there is a fault in the system, affecting driving safety and driving experience.
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Electronic Stability System (ESP/ESC) mis-triggered or failed:
When the steering angle sensor is misaligned, the electronic stability system (ESS) can misjudge the vehicle's state due to receiving erroneous steering signals.
This can trigger the system inadvertently during straight-line driving, causing unintended braking or swerving. In situations where intervention is truly necessary, such as emergency avoidance maneuvers, the system may be unable to respond promptly and correctly due to confused commands, increasing the risk of loss of control.
When is steering angle sensor calibration necessary?
We recommend using the Autel MaxiSys scanner for steering angle calibration in the following situations:
- Complete a wheel alignment;
- Replace the steering gear, steering column, or tie rod;
- Repair suspension or chassis components;
- Disconnect or replace the battery/control module (ECU);
- Steering angle sensor fault codes (such as C0051 or U0126) appear;
Even if the dashboard light is off, if the vehicle has undergone steering system repairs, a SAS calibration is recommended to ensure accuracy.
How to Calibrate Steering Angle Sensor with Autel MaxiSys Scanner
Step 1: Correctly connect the Autel scanner to the vehicle
Autel MaxiSys scanners are typically paired with a slave device. This slave device needs to be plugged into the vehicle's OBD II port to establish communication between the Autel scanner and the vehicle's ECU, facilitating subsequent resetting and calibration of the SAS system.
Step 2: Identify vehicle information and establish communication
Select the Diagnostics section on the home page to enter. Your vehicle's VIN and model information will be automatically identified. This will allow the Autel scanner to communicate with your vehicle's ECU, ensuring a proper connection and obtaining vehicle information.
Step 3: Follow the correct path and find the steering angle calibration function
The following steps are for reference, but they may not apply to all vehicles. The specific steps may vary depending on the vehicle model and the Autel MaxiSys scanner model. The reference path is: Diagnostics > Thermal Functions > Steering > Steering Angle Sensor Centering.
Step 4: Reset first and then learn, follow the instructions
First, enter the steering angle reset function. Note: If the vehicle stability indicator light is on, perform the "Steering Angle Sensor Learning" function.
Following the instructions on the Autel scanner screen, turn on the engine and operate the steering wheel as required. The SAS indicator light on the instrument panel will then illuminate, indicating that you are performing the steering angle sensor learning function. Continue to follow the on-screen instructions.
Calibrate SAS Steps
Step 5: Verifying the Results
After calibration is complete, clear all fault codes and check whether the steering angle sensor reading is close to 0°. You can take a short test drive to ensure the steering wheel is centered and the warning light is off.
Operation Reference Video
You can refer to the following steps to calibrate the steering angle sensor on a 2019 Chevy Colorado using an Autel MaxiSys scanner:
Tips for Accurate Calibration
- Perform calibration on a flat surface;
- Check and ensure consistent tire pressure;
- Center the steering wheel before beginning calibration;
- Update the Autel MaxiSys scanner regularly to maintain vehicle compatibility;
- For vehicles equipped with ADAS systems, it is recommended to complete SAS calibration before performing ADAS calibration.
Recommended Autel MaxiSys scanners
Autel Maxisys Elite II Pro
The Autel MaxiSys Elite II Prois based on the fast and intuitive Android 10.0 operating system, which is driven by an octa-core processor and can perform full system diagnostics and 38+ service functions, including Oil Reset, EPB, SAS, DPF, etc.
Autel Maxisys Elite II Pro
[2-Year Free Update] Automotive Diagnostic Tool | Bi-Directional Scanner With MaxiFlash VCI | ECU Programming & Coding | Auto Scan 2.0 | 38+ Reset Services
Autel MaxiSys MS908S Pro II
High-level OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool 2025 | Online ECU Programming/ Coding | 36+ Services | Active Tests | Full Systems | Android 10, FCA Autoauth
Autel MaxiSys MS908S Pro II
The Autel MaxiSYS MS908S Pro II is a professional automotive diagnostic tablet. It integrates over 36 essential maintenance functions, including steering angle sensor (SAS) calibration.
It accurately resets and configures the steering system, effectively resolving issues like steering wheel deviation. Combined with full-system diagnostics, two-way control, and online programming capabilities, it provides an efficient and reliable solution for automotive maintenance.
Summary
The steering angle sensor has a significant impact on driving safety. After making relevant adjustments, the steering angle sensor must be recalibrated to ensure driving safety and smooth operation of the vehicle.
Using an Autel MaxiSys scanner to perform steering angle calibration is not only easy but also ensures vehicle controllability and safety. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY car owner, mastering this Autel steering angle calibration technique will help you quickly troubleshoot steering deviation and stability warning issues.
