Specifications

Chassis Specialist : Electric Power Steering
Page 26
ROTATIONAL PLAY: 0-10MM (0-3.9in.)
The EPS system can be checked for the correct Level of
Assist.
 Verify the vehicle has the original equipment tires
and wheels and that the tire inflation is correct
 Start the engine and let the engine idle
 Attach a spring scale (commercially available) to
the steering wheel.
 With the engine idling on a clean and level floor
pull on the scale and read the measurement as soon
as the tires begin to move
 The scale reading should be no more than 29
Newton’s or 6.6 ft. lbs.
 If the reading is higher inspect the tire pressure, steering linkage, steering rack and finally the EPS
system
The Steering Wheel Rotational Play Check can also
be checked
 Put the steering wheel and tires in the straight
ahead position
 Measure how far the steering wheel can be turned
left and right without the front wheels turning
 The play should be within 0 to 10 mm (0-0.39")
 If the steering is within the limits, the system is ok.
If there is excessive play inspect the steering gear
guide adjustment, the steering linkage and the
steering gear
The Honda EPS system has a built in thermal overload
protection programme. The EPS controller will reduce
current to the EPS motor when excessive heat is detected, such as repeated turns to the steering stops.
The level of power steering assist will be reduced as necessary. The EPS indictor does not illuminate
and no DTC’s are stored. The system will restore full assist if the system detects no steering torque
sensor input or the ignition is cycled to the OFF position. It may take up to 15 minutes for the EPS
motor to cool down enough for full assist to be returned.