Power Steering System Description & Operation (EPS): Notes

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2008 GMC Yukon XL, 2008 GMC Yukon, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2008 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The 42-volt rack & pinion electric power steering (EPS) system reduces the amount of effort needed to steer the vehicle using the power steering control module (PSCM) to control the power steering motor to maneuver the steering gear. The PSCM also uses a combination of the torque sensor, motor rotational sensor, 42-volt circuit, battery voltage circuit and serial data circuit to perform the system functions. The PSCM monitors vehicle speed from the engine control module (ECM) via the serial data circuit to determine the amount of steering assist needed to steer the vehicle. At low speeds more assist is provided for easy turning during parking maneuvers. At higher speeds less assist is provided for improved road feel and directional stability.

The EPS system consists of the following components:

The PSCM
The power steering motor
The power steering motor rotational sensor
The torque sensor
The steering gear (rack and pinion)
The accessory power module (APM)

The PSCM and power steering motor are both serviced separately. The power steering motor is serviced separately from the steering gear; however the power steering motor rotational sensor is serviced as part of the steering motor. The torque sensor is integrated with the steering gear pinion and is serviced as part of the steering gear.