Failure Modes

When a DTC is present in the PSCM, the EPAS enters 1 of 2 modes of operation.

The EPAS enters a reduced steering assist mode  to protect the internal components of the EPAS when a non-critical safety concern is detected by the PSCM, concerns such as a loss of the vehicle speed message, low battery voltage, high battery voltage or an over-temperature condition are considered non-critical safety concerns. This reduced steering assist mode gives the steering operation a heavier than normal feel.

The EPAS enters a manual steering mode  (no electrical steering assistance is provided) when a concern considered to be a critical safety concern is detected. In manual steering mode, the vehicle has mechanical steering only which gives the steering operation a heavy feel.