Hi, checking to see if anyone has any experience with a faulty steering angle sensor. I have noticed loose steering recently and when hooked up to techstream it shows my steering angle is off when pointed straight ahead (shows 27 degrees with wheel straight). Anyway, I wonder if that could be the cause of the loose steering? I had several alignments and that did not fix the issue. Please let me know if anyone has had any issues with the steering angle sensor and the associated symptoms. Thanks!

 

The steering wheel is mechanically connected to the steering rack, so if you have a loose feel to it, there's a problem - loose bolts, bad rack, etc. Any mechanic should be able to diagnose this. Get it towed to the shop, as it may not be safe to drive.

It's possible the mechanical problem is causing the steering angle sensor to mis-report the angle. Look into that first. However, if you do need to replace the sensor, it's part of the turn signal stalk & power tilt/telescope switch assembly - about $450-500 plus labor.

https://www.mylparts.com/v-2004-lexu...teering-column

Chip H.

 

Thanks for the reply Chip. I had the steering inspected at a local shop and they did not identify any mechanical issues. What I forgot to mention is that the loose steering seems to be intermittent, which seems odd to me. As the steering angle is reported on the suspension screen of techstream, I am wondering if a false steering angle reading could cause the adaptive suspension to adjust improperly leading to the loose feeling in the steering? I could be way off but just a thought. I think I will need to make an appt with Lexus.

 

I think it's time you got a second opinion.

One thing that could cause that is low/old power steering fluid. I normally never change it, but given that these vehicles are now over 15 years old, it's probably a good idea.

Chip H.