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DIY LS430 Steering Wheel Centering/ ZERO STEERING ANGLE POINT

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Old 07-01-19, 06:38 PM
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Default DIY LS430 Steering Wheel Centering/ ZERO STEERING ANGLE POINT

This DIY is rather simple and designed to help many forum members and regular LS430 drivers to improve their driving experience, especially, after doing wheel alignment and replacement of suspension parts.

Not everyone knows, but some alignment shops (including dealers) neglect doing important calibrations after they do their work citing that alignment is done and no other action is required. What is important to know about these calibrations and what can we do from our end to complete the job and enjoy better driving experience?

The forum has accumulated tons of information related to Zero Point Calibration of the Yaw rate and Deceleration sensors. This is usually done using Techstream application or by connecting certain terminals of DLC3. The result is the car properly assigns commands to VSC system thus greatly improving safety and comfort of the car in different conditions.

However, we all had situations when our steering wheel was not centered despite the shop's guarantees that alignment is perfect.

This simple DIY guide is called LS430 STEERING WHEEL CENTERING / FINDING ZERO STEERING NEUTRAL POINT is designed to help you fix it without going back to the shop.

1) What tools do I need to perform this DIY?

10mm wrench to unplug negative battery cable.

2) What is Steering Angle Sensor?

The steering angle sensor is part of ABS / EBD / BA / TRC / VSC systems and plays key role in overall communication in between them. Skid control ECU calculates vehicle stability tendency based on the signal of sensors, speed sensor, yaw rate and deceleration sensor and steering angle sensor. And it judges whether the control of engine output torque by electronic control throttle and of wheel brake pressure by brake actuator will operate or not by the calculation results.

According to Lexus, "the steering angle sensor signal is sent to the suspension control ECU through the CAN communication system. The error codes C1201 C1203 C1231 C1777 are generated whenever there is a problem with steering sensor, steering angle sensor circuit, or the suspension control ECU".

Left turn of the steering wheel increases the measured value to 1150 degrees, while Right turn of the steering wheel decreases it to -1152.

The steering angle sensor is located right in front of the driver where the airbags are. The system is usually very reliable, however, requires calibration.

3) What happens to Vehicle Stability if my steering wheel is slightly off the center (0-5 degrees)?

While different situations may apply, you car most likely makes substantial miscalculations inside VSC / SKID CONTROL ECU and do NOT necessarily triggers DTC error codes, as the system is effective and balances out these mistakes. The car does not necessarily know why the steering wheel is off but the car is still driving straight. Constant self-correction of steering angle applies unnecessary brake force which may eventually cause instability. If the steering angle is way off the center, it will most likely illuminate VSC from times to times, as errors will pass the threshold and the driving may become unsafe.

4) Is there a difference between LS430 and GS430 in the way how steering sensor angle information is further used in VSC / steering system?

Yes. Lexus engineers decided that VGRS (Variable Gear Ratio Steering) is not suitable in LS430, however, in GS430 / SC430 they actually installed it.

Is it good news? Yes. Here is why.

GS430 VGRS requires a lot of more calibration which may not be possible without Techstream or other applicable scanners. LS430 Steering Angle system is fairly simple and can be calibrated using less sophisticated equipment and/or without it at all.

5) What is Steering Angle Neutral Point?

The steering angle neutral point tells ECM that, according to the driver, the steering wheel in current position will be used for straight driving.

ECM understands when the driver attempts to balance the straight driving during driving, however, it never resets this neutral point as it may create a serious safety condition.

The only exception is when electronics enters learning mode and slightly corrects the VSC behavior to ensure the neutral point remains the same during straight driving. Once the behavior is learnt, it is saved in memory.

If any steering pull is present, it may indicate faulty steering neutral point. However, during very low speed driving, the driver may notice the wheel is centered.

5) How do I obtain Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Lexus service manuals specifies that LS430 enters SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode once the negative battery cable is disconnected for more than 2 seconds.


Important tip: The steering wheel must be centered in advance before coming to a complete stop - to avoid discrepancy, do not center the wheel when the car is already stopped.

During the SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode, the driver must correct the steering angle neutral point using either of the following methods:

- Method 1. Turn the steering wheel to the right and left fully.
- Method 2. Drive the vehicle at more than 20 km/h (12.43 mph) for more than 5 minutes on a straight road and with as little traffic congestion as possible.

While driving at a constant vehicle speed, the ECU recognizes the point where the steering angle changes the least and memorizes it as the steering angle neutral point.

Stop the vehicle and check whether the neutral point is stored or not. If it is not stored, drive the vehicle some more (the neutral point is stored by driving the vehicle straight).

6) Which method do I have to pick to reach the Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Both. First method 1, then method 2.

7) Does the discrepancy of 1,2,3,4 degrees of steering angle sensor cause car instability?

Depends on your car suspension setup / age / mileage. Despite LS430 advanced VSC system, the driver may not even be aware of this condition. This explains why in many times wheel alignment in reputable shop cause such a great comfort. Whenever the systems are in perfect balance, it removes the necessity of additional brake actuator force applied during regular driving, which decrease wandering, pull, hesitations, and unexplainable throttle changes.

That's it for now. Thank you for reading this DIY. Hopefully it helps someone to fix their steering wheel issue. Also, if anyone has additional thoughts on the Steering Angle system, please share them. This topic is poorly covered by LS430 service manual.
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Old 07-01-19, 06:40 PM
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8) Does ZERO POINT CALIBRATION OF VSC reset STEERING ANGLE POINT?

No.
Old 07-16-19, 08:56 AM
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I'm pretty sure the Steering Angle Neutral Point is only relevant to the Back Guide Monitor System (the lines on the screen for 04-06 LS430 with rear camera). It is completely unrelated to ABS/VSC, and this Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the calibration of the Steering Angle Sensor.

ABS/VSC system only needs zero point calibration, which means clearing the calibration (the calibration cannot be performed until the stored data is cleared), and then performing the calibration (both yaw rate sensor and deceleration sensor are calibrated at the same time).
Old 07-16-19, 09:38 AM
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I misread the subject, I thought it was going to be about centering the wheel physically.

Do our cars need such a reset, because on some other cars there is only such a sensor when the vehicle has active steering, and then yes, there are additional steps to follow say when doing ABS work. As far as I know our cars don't have active steering, but there are lots I don't know about our cars....
Old 07-16-19, 10:44 AM
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Originally Posted by StanVanDam
I'm pretty sure the Steering Angle Neutral Point is only relevant to the Back Guide Monitor System (the lines on the screen for 04-06 LS430 with rear camera). It is completely unrelated to ABS/VSC, and this Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the calibration of the Steering Angle Sensor.

ABS/VSC system only needs zero point calibration, which means clearing the calibration (the calibration cannot be performed until the stored data is cleared), and then performing the calibration (both yaw rate sensor and deceleration sensor are calibrated at the same time).
Not quite so. Zero point calibration will be unsuccessful from safety perspective if your wheel will not be straight (in case of more than reasonable discrepancy).

Let's review the following article to clarify definitions and why the car needs to know when the steering wheel is in "straight position" (=steering angle neutral point).

https://www.brakeandfrontend.com/mak...or-input-data/

The SAS (Steering Angle Sensor) is typically part of a sensor cluster behind the steering wheel. The sensor cluster will have more than one steering position sensor, and some sensors consist of three sensors for redundancy and to confirm the data from the SAS. It’s important for the ABS/ESC module to receive two signals to confirm the steering wheel’s position, and these signals are often out of phase with each other.

Resetting Steering Angle Sensors
Many vehicles require that the SAS is reset or recalibrated after performing an alignment or replacing parts in the steering system. There are three types of reset procedures:


• First, some systems self-calibrate on their own.
• Second, some vehicles require specific wires or grounded or buttons that need to be pressed.
• Third, some systems require recalibration with a scan tool.


Even if the SAS is out of calibration, most vehicles can sense if it’s traveling in a straight line. If the angle is far enough out of range, it might set a trouble code and disable the ESC system.


Self-Calibration. On some Chrysler vehicles, recalibrating the sensor after an alignment or a dead battery is just a matter of turning the wheels lock-to-lock, centering the wheel and cycling the key.
This “auto learn” is becoming more common on newer vehicles.



Scan Tool Steering Angle Sensor Reset. There are many options for scan tools to reset the SAS — some tools are even integrated into an alignment system.After the reset is completed with the scan tool, the tool may advise you to go lock-to-lock with the steering wheel.


Tip: Perform lock-to-lock on every reset. Even if the lock-to-lock procedure is not performed, the data from the sensor will still say 0º. If the lock-to-lock procedure is not performed, the sensor may read 0º when the wheel is turned. This is not the fault of the scan tool. After a test drive, the scan tool is reading -540º. This is what happens when you do not move it lock-to-lock.


Jumper Wire SAS Reset (Toyota/Lexus)
Most Toyota vehicles have a process to reset the SAS called “zero-point calibration.” This process has been used for Toyota vehicles for more than a decade. The TSB for this procedure can be found under brake system TSBs and not steering TSBs.


While performing the zero-point calibration, do not tilt, move or shake the vehicle. The vehicle must remain in a stationary condition throughout the entire process. Be sure to perform the procedure on a level surface with an inclination of less than 1%.


Procedure
1. If the vehicle is equipped with A/T, ensure that the shift lever is in the “P” range and the parking brake is applied. If the vehicle is equipped with an M/T, ensure that the parking brake is applied.


2. Turn the ignition switch on.


3. Using SST 09843–18040 (jumper wire), repeat a cycle of short and open between terminals TS and CG of the DLC (pins 4 and 12) four times or more within eight seconds (refer to the specific vehicle EWD for TS and CG pin location in the DLC3).


4. Verify that the VSC indicator light is lit, indicating the recorded zero point is erased.


5. Turn the ignition switch off.


6. Be sure terminals TS and CG of the DLC3 are *disconnected.


7. Turn the ignition switch on.


8. Check that the VSC warning light goes off about 15 seconds after the ignition switch is turned on.


9. After ensuring that the VSC warning light remains off for 2 seconds, turn the ignition switch off.


10. Connect terminals TS and CG of DLC3 using SST 09843–18040.


11. Turn ignition switch on.


12. After turning the ignition switch on, check that the VSC warning light is lit for about 4 seconds and then starts to quickly blink at 0.13 second intervals.


13. After ensuring the VSC warning light blinks for two seconds, turn the ignition switch off.


14. Remove the SST from terminals TS and CG of DLC3.


15. Drive the vehicle for at least five minutes to confirm zero-point calibration is complete.


If viewing Diagnostic Tester Data List after the repair, the SAS may remain at 1150º until the vehicle reaches 28 mph. This is a normal condition until the learned values of the steering angle have been achieved.



CASE STUDY: Resetting Steering Angle Sensors on 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser

Most enhanced scan tools can perform an SAS, accelerometer and yaw rate sensor reset and let you observe data from the sensors.
To start the calibration, the tool will tell you to be parked on a level surface with the steering wheel straight. Some vehicles have other procedures in terms of key and shifter position.


When the calibration is complete, the ABS and VSC lights will flash continuously. Look at the data for the SAS. The SAS will show 1150º, which is normal for a Toyota until the vehicle is driven above 28 mph and the steering has been turned lock-to-lock. The screen also shows the data from the lateral accelerometer. This FJ Cruiser has been jacked up by 10% on one side, which is why it’s reading at 0.1G. When the vehicle is dropped, the reading goes to 0.04G.


If you suspect a vehicle has a bad accelerometer, this test can reveal if the sensor is functioning without having to remove the center console. After the test drive, the steering angle is almost at zero.
When the wheel is turned to the left, the SAS reads 97º. When the steering is turned to the right, it displays -90º.

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Old 07-16-19, 04:04 PM
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The "Toyota SAS reset procedure" you just posted (Steps 1-15) is exactly the LS430's "Zero Point Calibration of Yaw Rate and Deceleration Sensors". Steps 1-5 clears the zero point data of both sensors. Steps 6-9 obtains the zero point of the yaw rate sensor. Steps 10-14 obtains the zero point of the deceleration sensor. For all of this, the car must be perfectly level, less than +/- 1 degrees inclination, with the steering wheel dead center.

I'm sure you can see that the procedure you just posted is totally different from the procedure in your first post. I also posted this same Zero Point Calibration procedure at https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...ml#post9502351

The "Steering Angle Neutral Point" calibration in your first post is for calibrating the navigation screen's rear view guide. Totally different procedure and subsystems affected.

Different cars and different Toyotas have different systems and functions. In the LS430, the Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the ABS/VSC system. Only the Steering Angle Sensor is an input to the LS430's ABS/VSC, and there is no separate calibration for the SAS in the LS430 - it is part of the Zero Point Calibration, not the Steering Angle Neutral Point Calibration.

Also, no information in this thread will help with physically centering the steering wheel. Physically centering can only be done via tie rod end adjustments. If there is excessive free-play, you need to replace the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly and/or steering gear.
Old 07-16-19, 05:50 PM
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Originally Posted by StanVanDam
Different cars and different Toyotas have different systems and functions. In the LS430, the Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the ABS/VSC system. Only the Steering Angle Sensor is an input to the LS430's ABS/VSC, and there is no separate calibration for the SAS in the LS430 - it is part of the Zero Point Calibration, not the Steering Angle Neutral Point Calibration.
The TSB and the post that you were referring to - TSB BR001-04 - contains proper Zero Point Calibration procedure primarily for ’04 4Runner, Camry, Highlander, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Sienna, Solara, Tundra & Scion xB with VSC as written in the TSB itself. You added that it works for all 2004 Lexus models with Vehicle Stability Control.

At the same time, you state that "there is no separate calibration of the SAS - it is part of the Zero Point calibration, not the Steering Angle Neutral Point Calibration", while your TSB lists Steering Angle Sensor as the one due for calibration.

The neutral point is what the calibration/reset is designed to obtain, however, you again make contradicting statement that the Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the ABS/VSC system. Yes it does. Not having correct steering angle neutral point impacts VSC system and the way how braking control will happen.

In the first post, I specifically included information that other cars require a more sophisticated procedure to calibrate VGRS, Steering Angle Sensor and other system. LS430 has a more simple design.

However, it does not mean that post-alignment step should not include confirmation that steering angle sensor initialization is completed.

Doing zero point calibration procedure, as stated in your post, following all the steps may still generate the discrepancy in steering angle readings through Techstreams, as your post does not recommend to straighten the steering wheel. If not done, the system will pick the wrong values even if you do the road test, therefore, there is always a chance the VSC will be miscalculating correct direction against the "zero point steering angle values" which were incorrectly obtained / confirmed.

Originally Posted by StanVanDam
I'm pretty sure the Steering Angle Neutral Point is only relevant to the Back Guide Monitor System (the lines on the screen for 04-06 LS430 with rear camera). It is completely unrelated to ABS/VSC, and this Steering Angle Neutral Point does not impact the calibration of the Steering Angle Sensor.
The procedure in the first post does not calibrate the Steering Angle Sensor, but rather works as an additional step to clear zero steering point values. Back guide monitor system has no relation to this topic whatsoever.

Originally Posted by StanVanDam
ABS/VSC system only needs zero point calibration, which means clearing the calibration (the calibration cannot be performed until the stored data is cleared), and then performing the calibration (both yaw rate sensor and deceleration sensor are calibrated at the same time).
Your TSB specifically says that zero point calibration of the above sensor (including steering angle sensor) must be performed. What TSB refers to is obtaining zero point values (neutral points, whatever you want to call it) as they play critical role what information is stored/transmitted in between them and main Skid Control ECU. What will happen with the stability system if the alignment is done incorrectly and your steering wheel is off 45 degrees?

Lexus specifies how, for example, the ECU determines the understeer:
"Whether or not the vehicle is in the state of understeer is determined by the difference between the target yaw rate and the vehicle’s actual yaw rate. when the vehicle’s actual yaw rate is smaller than the yaw rate (a target yaw rate that is determined by the vehicle speed and steering angle) that should be rightfully generated when the driver operates the steering wheel, it means the vehicle is making a turn at a greater angle than the loss of travel. Thus, the ECU determines that there is a large tendency to understeer."

It is fair to assume that if your steering angle is off and the neutral point is not correct, the stability system will not do the good job as the computer is not perfect to understand why the car is not driving straight if the steering wheel is straight as well.

Originally Posted by StanVanDam;10566951
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Also, no information in this thread will help with physically centering the steering wheel. Physically centering can only be done via tie rod end adjustments. If there is excessive free-play, you need to replace the steering intermediate shaft sub-assembly and/or steering gear.
This thread is not about doing an alignment by disconnecting the battery and rotating the steering wheel. It is designed to assist at resetting the steering angle point and help the ECU better understand the ongoing alignment / zero point calibration of VSC.

Originally Posted by StanVanDam;10566951
[color=#222222
The "Toyota SAS reset procedure" you just posted (Steps 1-15) is exactly the LS430's "Zero Point Calibration of Yaw Rate and Deceleration Sensors". Steps 1-5 clears the zero point data of both sensors. Steps 6-9 obtains the zero point of the yaw rate sensor. Steps 10-14 obtains the zero point of the deceleration sensor. For all of this, the car must be perfectly level, less than +/- 1 degrees inclination, with the steering wheel dead center.
Toyota SAS procedure posted above summarized one of the experiences that is worth to share. The point was not to copy/paste the instructions of how to manually use the jumper, but rather show the bigger picture. In my own experience, obtaining steering neutral point using the method in the first post helped to improve the results of zero point procedures.
Old 07-16-19, 06:05 PM
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DTC C1290/66 Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Malfunction

Description

The skid control ECU acquires steering angle sensor zero point every time the engine switch is turned on (IG) and the vehicle is driven at 22 mph (35 km/h) or more for approximately 5 seconds. The ECU also stores the previous zero point.
If front wheel alignment or steering wheel position is adjusted without disconnecting the negative battery terminal, or if yaw rate and acceleration sensor zero point is not acquired after the adjustments have been completed, the skid control ECU detects the difference between the previous zero point and newly acquired zero point and outputs this DTC to indicate a poor adjustment.
Warning of the steering angle sensor zero point malfunction will be cancelled by turning the engine switch off.

DTC No.
DTC Detection Condition
Trouble Area

C1290/66
The steering angle sensor zero point calibration position vastly differs from the recorded value

  1. Yaw rate and acceleration sensor zero point calibration incomplete
  2. Poor adjustment of the centered position of the steering wheel
  3. Poor adjustment of front wheel alignment

INSPECTION PROCEDURE

1.PERFORM ZERO POINT CALIBRATION OF YAW RATE AND ACCELERATION SENSOR

  1. Perform zero point calibration of the yaw rate and acceleration sensor

    HINT:
    1. When the stored zero point of the yaw rate and acceleration sensor is erased, steering angle sensor zero point will also be erased.
    2. If the zero point and output value of the yaw rate and acceleration sensor and the output value of the speed sensors are not normal, steering angle sensor zero point cannot be acquired normally even if the vehicle is driven straight ahead at 2 mph (35 km/h) or more.

2.CHECK STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ZERO POINT CALIBRATION
  1. Drive the vehicle straight ahead at 22 mph (35 km/h) or more for at least 5 seconds.
  2. Check that the centered position of the steering wheel is correctly set, while driving straight ahead.

    HINT:

    If front wheel alignment and steering position are adjusted as a result of abnormal centered position of the steering wheel, acquire yaw rate and acceleration sensor zero point again after the adjustments are completed.

    OK:

    The centered position of the steering wheel is correctly set.
NG

ADJUST FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT OR STEERING POSITION
Old 07-24-19, 03:19 PM
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You are posting contradicting information - first post and thread topic is about "Steering Neutral Point Calibration", but then you posted multiple procedures stating to do a Zero Point Calibration. This thread has wandered off-topic and needs to be cleaned up/deleted.

C1290 is not a code that any 2001-2006 LS430 will ever output, so again, you are discussing things not relevant to the LS430.

In the LS430, the Steering Angle Neutral Point is automatically cleared whenever IG = OFF, and is recalibrated upon IG=ON by either moving the steering wheel fully right then fully left, OR by driving more than 28mph for more than 5 minutes on a straight road. The output of the SAS may remain at 1150 until the vehicle reaches 28mph. No documents relating to the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) indicate any sort of calibration procedure when installing a new one or troubleshooting an old one. The SAS on the LS430 self-calibrates, and can be helped along if you do the full right then full left upon vehicle IG=ON.

In any case, DTC C1290 for other Toyotas further proves my point. The instructions you posted say to redo the Zero Point Calibration (which means following the procedure and prompts in Techstream - meaning the steering wheel must be straight, car perfectly level, and no movement inside the car whatsoever during the calibration). Then if it is still NG, it says to physically adjust the steering, meaning adjusting the tie rods per the service manual. The NG status will not be resolved by your Steering Neutral Point Calibration or any other calibration.

Nothing in DTC C1290 says to do a Steering Neutral Point Calibration, which is what your initial post was about. You are mixing up multiple calibration procedures in a single topic, which is confusing and unhelpful. You are also bringing in Toyota DTC codes unrelated to the LS430, further creating confusion.

Further indication that Steering Angle Sensor Zero Point Malfunction doesn't exist in the LS430 is via the ABS/VSC Test Mode Signal Check. In that signal check mode, there are a series of procedures to test the testable individual ABS/VSC components: ABS/BRAKE/SLIP/TRAC lights, deceleration sensor, master cylinder pressure sensor, yaw rate sensor, and speed sensor. There is no procedure to test the Steering Angle Sensor. The only diagnostic on the Steering Angle Sensor is checking that the Techstream Data List shows the angle going from -1152 (full right) to +1150.875 (full left), and that harness pin 1 (IG1) to pin 2 (ESS) = 10-14V, and pin 2 (ESS) to pin 3 (BAT) = 10-14V. Also, the service manual specifically says Steering Angle Sensor DTCs may be output if the speed sensor or yaw rate sensor has trouble, and to inspect/repair those sensors PRIOR to doing anything with the Steering Angle Sensor.

Doing zero point calibration procedure, as stated in your post, following all the steps may still generate the discrepancy in steering angle readings through Techstreams, as your post does not recommend to straighten the steering wheel.
If you are doing the procedure, then you will clearly see in every ABS/VSC TSB that it says to follow the service manual, and in the manual and in Techstream, it says to follow the prompts, which are printed on screen in ALL CAPS! Prompts such as: ENSURE THE STEERING WHEEL IS CENTERED IN THE STRAIGHT-AHEAD POSITION, THAT THE CAR IS LEVEL WITH LESS THAN +/- 1 DEGREE INCLINATION, ENGINE IS OFF, IGNITION IS ON, DON'T VIBRATE THE CAR, etc. If you are doing the procedure, then you are using Techstream, and if you are using Techstream, then you should be able to read the screen on the handheld tester or the laptop. You don't need to reference MY notes when doing this - you should be following the service manual and the prompts in Techstream, which clearly tell you what to do.

Back guide monitor system has no relation to this topic whatsoever.
Wrong, the instructions in your first post comes directly from service manual documents 01-20 and 05-1913, "Initialization of the Back Guide Monitor System". The "Steering Neutral Point Calibration" is what your first post is about, and this only exists only in the Back Guide Monitor System. You can also reference the Audio & Visual System document at 67-1, which then refers to 01-20, which is exactly the same as 05-1913. No other LS430 subsystem uses this initialization procedure - not in ABS/VSC, not in Steering, nowhere else.

What will happen with the stability system if the alignment is done incorrectly and your steering wheel is off 45 degrees?
The Zero Point Calibration will not succeed if it detects that the steering is off centre. The multi-display will show "VSC" during the obtaining of the Zero Point, and if the steering wheel is not centred, the zero point should not be stored and the multi-display should not change to show "VSC TEST". I haven't tried to calibrate the zero point while rocking the car while parked on a steep incline while the steering wheel is jacked sideways, but even if it stores the calibration and switches to say VSC TEST, I know that I didn't follow the clearly written ALL CAPS instructions on the tester prompts, and therefore the stored zero points should be wrong. And like I previously said, if your steering wheel is straight and your tires point sideways, you need to physically adjust your tie rods. Your alignment must be correct for the VSC system to function optimally.

In my own experience, obtaining steering neutral point using the method in the first post helped to improve the results of zero point procedures.
What does "improve the results" mean? You drifted your car in the snow/rain without this Steering Neutral Point Calibration several times to know the VSC response, then did the calibration and did the exact same drift at the same road with the same road friction coefficient at the same speed and steering angles repeatedly afterwards, and the car repeatedly corrected better than before calibration? This seems very unlikely, as there are many variables at play, not even including your personal "feel" for the quality of the VSC correction.
Old 07-28-19, 11:55 AM
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StanVanDam, these are your statements which are NOT correct:
- In the LS430, the Steering Angle Neutral Point is automatically cleared whenever IG = OFF, and is recalibrated upon IG=ON by either moving the steering wheel fully right then fully left, OR by driving more than 28mph for more than 5 minutes on a straight road.
- The instructions you posted say to redo the Zero Point Calibration.
- The Zero Point Calibration will not succeed if it detects that the steering is off centre.
- Your alignment must be correct for the VSC system to function optimally.

This is your statement which is the closest you got to the realistic situation:
- The SAS on the LS430 self-calibrates, and can be helped along if you do the full right then full left upon vehicle IG=ON.
- You are mixing up multiple calibration procedures in a single topic, which is confusing and unhelpful.

I did not mix anything, while you did it. I clearly said in the first posts which i stand by that SAS reset procedure is different and requires attention. Your role here was to confuse the reader with different interpretations, references to backup camera, zero point procedures of OTHER sensors.

This is how the reputable alignment shop does the job (by taking account all factors, which are ought to be improve final results):
(as a basis i will use the information provided by Hunter)

- A growing number of OEMs now require Steering Angle Sensor reset in conjunction with alignment service.
- Alignment corrects mechanical adjustments, but the SAS requires an electronic reset to match the vehicle's new thrustline.
- The actual position of the SAS is unknown after an alignment, which is why measuring and resetting the SAS is now the new last step of alignment service.
- Failure to perform SAS reset when required can affect the proper operation of electronic driver-assist systems that rely on precise steering information from the SAS.
- Steering Angle Sensors (SAS) monitor the driver’s input by continuously measuring the position and turning rate of the steering wheel and reporting the information to the vehicle on-board systems.
- The SAS works within a network of sensors that track wheel speed, lateral forces, vehicle roll and other variables. These measurements, along with the steering data provided by the SAS, are used to control various driver-assist systems such as Electronic Stability Control, Electric Power Steering and Active Steering.
- It is important that the SAS, as well as other related sensors (e.g., yaw rate, torque angle), be calibrated to the straight-ahead position in line with the front wheels and thrustline of the vehicle to relay accurate steering information.



StanVanDam, I am glad you were able to gradully modify your statements after each post here to get closer to the real life picture. I further request you to stop flooding in my thread and allow others to read information related to Steering Angle Sensor and Neutral points only.

Also, there is a reason why good alignment shops do NOT neglect looking at SAS sensor, whether its VGRS or NON-VGRS, and they use all methods available to reset / improve SAS function by, in particular, using two methods in my original post, plus connecting special tools which work with precision. Resetting zero points in the garage may not always be precise as you do not see the picture, therefore, may require multiple attempts. If the methods mentioned above do not work and alignment is correct, this will further warrant the proper SAS reset with applicable tool (not necessarily Techstream as there are better ways to do so).
Old 01-25-21, 08:28 AM
  #11  
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Originally Posted by ls430w140
This DIY is rather simple and designed to help many forum members and regular LS430 drivers to improve their driving experience, especially, after doing wheel alignment and replacement of suspension parts.

Not everyone knows, but some alignment shops (including dealers) neglect doing important calibrations after they do their work citing that alignment is done and no other action is required. What is important to know about these calibrations and what can we do from our end to complete the job and enjoy better driving experience?

The forum has accumulated tons of information related to Zero Point Calibration of the Yaw rate and Deceleration sensors. This is usually done using Techstream application or by connecting certain terminals of DLC3. The result is the car properly assigns commands to VSC system thus greatly improving safety and comfort of the car in different conditions.

However, we all had situations when our steering wheel was not centered despite the shop's guarantees that alignment is perfect.

This simple DIY guide is called LS430 STEERING WHEEL CENTERING / FINDING ZERO STEERING NEUTRAL POINT is designed to help you fix it without going back to the shop.

1) What tools do I need to perform this DIY?

10mm wrench to unplug negative battery cable.

2) What is Steering Angle Sensor?

The steering angle sensor is part of ABS / EBD / BA / TRC / VSC systems and plays key role in overall communication in between them. Skid control ECU calculates vehicle stability tendency based on the signal of sensors, speed sensor, yaw rate and deceleration sensor and steering angle sensor. And it judges whether the control of engine output torque by electronic control throttle and of wheel brake pressure by brake actuator will operate or not by the calculation results.

According to Lexus, "the steering angle sensor signal is sent to the suspension control ECU through the CAN communication system. The error codes C1201 C1203 C1231 C1777 are generated whenever there is a problem with steering sensor, steering angle sensor circuit, or the suspension control ECU".

Left turn of the steering wheel increases the measured value to 1150 degrees, while Right turn of the steering wheel decreases it to -1152.

The steering angle sensor is located right in front of the driver where the airbags are. The system is usually very reliable, however, requires calibration.

3) What happens to Vehicle Stability if my steering wheel is slightly off the center (0-5 degrees)?

While different situations may apply, you car most likely makes substantial miscalculations inside VSC / SKID CONTROL ECU and do NOT necessarily triggers DTC error codes, as the system is effective and balances out these mistakes. The car does not necessarily know why the steering wheel is off but the car is still driving straight. Constant self-correction of steering angle applies unnecessary brake force which may eventually cause instability. If the steering angle is way off the center, it will most likely illuminate VSC from times to times, as errors will pass the threshold and the driving may become unsafe.

4) Is there a difference between LS430 and GS430 in the way how steering sensor angle information is further used in VSC / steering system?

Yes. Lexus engineers decided that VGRS (Variable Gear Ratio Steering) is not suitable in LS430, however, in GS430 / SC430 they actually installed it.

Is it good news? Yes. Here is why.

GS430 VGRS requires a lot of more calibration which may not be possible without Techstream or other applicable scanners. LS430 Steering Angle system is fairly simple and can be calibrated using less sophisticated equipment and/or without it at all.

5) What is Steering Angle Neutral Point?

The steering angle neutral point tells ECM that, according to the driver, the steering wheel in current position will be used for straight driving.

ECM understands when the driver attempts to balance the straight driving during driving, however, it never resets this neutral point as it may create a serious safety condition.

The only exception is when electronics enters learning mode and slightly corrects the VSC behavior to ensure the neutral point remains the same during straight driving. Once the behavior is learnt, it is saved in memory.

If any steering pull is present, it may indicate faulty steering neutral point. However, during very low speed driving, the driver may notice the wheel is centered.

5) How do I obtain Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Lexus service manuals specifies that LS430 enters SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode once the negative battery cable is disconnected for more than 2 seconds.


Important tip: The steering wheel must be centered in advance before coming to a complete stop - to avoid discrepancy, do not center the wheel when the car is already stopped.

During the SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode, the driver must correct the steering angle neutral point using either of the following methods:

- Method 1. Turn the steering wheel to the right and left fully.
- Method 2. Drive the vehicle at more than 20 km/h (12.43 mph) for more than 5 minutes on a straight road and with as little traffic congestion as possible.

While driving at a constant vehicle speed, the ECU recognizes the point where the steering angle changes the least and memorizes it as the steering angle neutral point.

Stop the vehicle and check whether the neutral point is stored or not. If it is not stored, drive the vehicle some more (the neutral point is stored by driving the vehicle straight).

6) Which method do I have to pick to reach the Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Both. First method 1, then method 2.

7) Does the discrepancy of 1,2,3,4 degrees of steering angle sensor cause car instability?

Depends on your car suspension setup / age / mileage. Despite LS430 advanced VSC system, the driver may not even be aware of this condition. This explains why in many times wheel alignment in reputable shop cause such a great comfort. Whenever the systems are in perfect balance, it removes the necessity of additional brake actuator force applied during regular driving, which decrease wandering, pull, hesitations, and unexplainable throttle changes.

That's it for now. Thank you for reading this DIY. Hopefully it helps someone to fix their steering wheel issue. Also, if anyone has additional thoughts on the Steering Angle system, please share them. This topic is poorly covered by LS430 service manual.
in the paragraph before step 6 you mentioned check to see if the steering wheel is in the neutral position. How do you do that?
Old 10-26-21, 06:51 PM
  #12  
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Originally Posted by ls430w140
This DIY is rather simple and designed to help many forum members and regular LS430 drivers to improve their driving experience, especially, after doing wheel alignment and replacement of suspension parts.

Not everyone knows, but some alignment shops (including dealers) neglect doing important calibrations after they do their work citing that alignment is done and no other action is required. What is important to know about these calibrations and what can we do from our end to complete the job and enjoy better driving experience?

The forum has accumulated tons of information related to Zero Point Calibration of the Yaw rate and Deceleration sensors. This is usually done using Techstream application or by connecting certain terminals of DLC3. The result is the car properly assigns commands to VSC system thus greatly improving safety and comfort of the car in different conditions.

However, we all had situations when our steering wheel was not centered despite the shop's guarantees that alignment is perfect.

This simple DIY guide is called LS430 STEERING WHEEL CENTERING / FINDING ZERO STEERING NEUTRAL POINT is designed to help you fix it without going back to the shop.

1) What tools do I need to perform this DIY?

10mm wrench to unplug negative battery cable.

2) What is Steering Angle Sensor?

The steering angle sensor is part of ABS / EBD / BA / TRC / VSC systems and plays key role in overall communication in between them. Skid control ECU calculates vehicle stability tendency based on the signal of sensors, speed sensor, yaw rate and deceleration sensor and steering angle sensor. And it judges whether the control of engine output torque by electronic control throttle and of wheel brake pressure by brake actuator will operate or not by the calculation results.

According to Lexus, "the steering angle sensor signal is sent to the suspension control ECU through the CAN communication system. The error codes C1201 C1203 C1231 C1777 are generated whenever there is a problem with steering sensor, steering angle sensor circuit, or the suspension control ECU".

Left turn of the steering wheel increases the measured value to 1150 degrees, while Right turn of the steering wheel decreases it to -1152.

The steering angle sensor is located right in front of the driver where the airbags are. The system is usually very reliable, however, requires calibration.

3) What happens to Vehicle Stability if my steering wheel is slightly off the center (0-5 degrees)?

While different situations may apply, you car most likely makes substantial miscalculations inside VSC / SKID CONTROL ECU and do NOT necessarily triggers DTC error codes, as the system is effective and balances out these mistakes. The car does not necessarily know why the steering wheel is off but the car is still driving straight. Constant self-correction of steering angle applies unnecessary brake force which may eventually cause instability. If the steering angle is way off the center, it will most likely illuminate VSC from times to times, as errors will pass the threshold and the driving may become unsafe.

4) Is there a difference between LS430 and GS430 in the way how steering sensor angle information is further used in VSC / steering system?

Yes. Lexus engineers decided that VGRS (Variable Gear Ratio Steering) is not suitable in LS430, however, in GS430 / SC430 they actually installed it.

Is it good news? Yes. Here is why.

GS430 VGRS requires a lot of more calibration which may not be possible without Techstream or other applicable scanners. LS430 Steering Angle system is fairly simple and can be calibrated using less sophisticated equipment and/or without it at all.

5) What is Steering Angle Neutral Point?

The steering angle neutral point tells ECM that, according to the driver, the steering wheel in current position will be used for straight driving.

ECM understands when the driver attempts to balance the straight driving during driving, however, it never resets this neutral point as it may create a serious safety condition.

The only exception is when electronics enters learning mode and slightly corrects the VSC behavior to ensure the neutral point remains the same during straight driving. Once the behavior is learnt, it is saved in memory.

If any steering pull is present, it may indicate faulty steering neutral point. However, during very low speed driving, the driver may notice the wheel is centered.

5) How do I obtain Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Lexus service manuals specifies that LS430 enters SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode once the negative battery cable is disconnected for more than 2 seconds.


Important tip: The steering wheel must be centered in advance before coming to a complete stop - to avoid discrepancy, do not center the wheel when the car is already stopped.

During the SYSTEM INITIALIZING mode, the driver must correct the steering angle neutral point using either of the following methods:

- Method 1. Turn the steering wheel to the right and left fully.
- Method 2. Drive the vehicle at more than 20 km/h (12.43 mph) for more than 5 minutes on a straight road and with as little traffic congestion as possible.

While driving at a constant vehicle speed, the ECU recognizes the point where the steering angle changes the least and memorizes it as the steering angle neutral point.

Stop the vehicle and check whether the neutral point is stored or not. If it is not stored, drive the vehicle some more (the neutral point is stored by driving the vehicle straight).

6) Which method do I have to pick to reach the Steering Angle Neutral Point?

Both. First method 1, then method 2.

7) Does the discrepancy of 1,2,3,4 degrees of steering angle sensor cause car instability?

Depends on your car suspension setup / age / mileage. Despite LS430 advanced VSC system, the driver may not even be aware of this condition. This explains why in many times wheel alignment in reputable shop cause such a great comfort. Whenever the systems are in perfect balance, it removes the necessity of additional brake actuator force applied during regular driving, which decrease wandering, pull, hesitations, and unexplainable throttle changes.

That's it for now. Thank you for reading this DIY. Hopefully it helps someone to fix their steering wheel issue. Also, if anyone has additional thoughts on the Steering Angle system, please share them. This topic is poorly covered by LS430 service manual.
My steering wheel is a little crooked, I did it your way..I think it's very good..The car better!I think you're awesome. Thank you!
The steering feels better!!!
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