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2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Loss of Electric Power Steering During Low Speed Parking Maneuvers

Owners of 2017 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado models have reported experiencing unexpected loss of electric power steering (EPS) specifically during slow-speed parking maneuvers. This sudden loss of steering assist, typically followed by its quick reappearance within a second, can be startling and disrupt the parking process. The root of the problem appears to be flaws within the EPS module itself. It's believed that software updates are often a viable solution to correct these issues. While General Motors has initiated large-scale recalls to tackle the problem affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles, the inherent safety risks associated with losing control of steering while driving remain a key concern. Moreover, owners may encounter warning lights on the dashboard or experience unusual resistance when turning the wheel, reinforcing the need for timely repairs related to any EPS malfunction. There are additional potential causes beyond software, including electrical connection problems, which add complexity to a problem that can disrupt a driver's confidence in the vehicle.

Certain 2017 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado models, along with some earlier models, have shown a tendency towards temporary power steering loss during slow-speed maneuvers, specifically parking. This often manifests as a sudden loss of steering assist followed by a rapid return to normal within a second. While this issue has been documented, it's important to understand the intricate system at play. Electric power steering depends on a complex interplay of sensors, motors, and control modules. These components can be especially sensitive to voltage changes, especially in low-speed situations, leading to this unexpected loss of steering assist. A key part of this system, the torque sensor, translates the driver's steering input into the correct motor response. A malfunction or a slight delay in the torque sensor's reaction can lead to problems, particularly during tight turns and parking. It's also been found that power supply issues, stemming from aging wiring or connections, can contribute to this intermittent steering assist loss, particularly when the vehicle is at rest or moving slowly. How the vehicle is loaded and aligned can also factor in; a poorly aligned vehicle may require more steering effort, making any loss of assist more noticeable. While most systems have safety nets in place, a complete loss of power steering is a safety concern, particularly when drivers need the agility to react in tight spaces. It is also challenging to fully diagnose the EPS module with generic scan tools. Skilled technicians often need to go further and perform deeper component level testing to uncover issues that might not cause hard faults but still hamper steering at low speeds. This behavior is also affected by environmental conditions like temperature and humidity, as these can impact the steering system and create situations where the assist temporarily disappears. The EPS motor's feedback loop works in real-time, but problems with software can introduce delays, noticeably impacting steering during parking maneuvers where precision is key. In some GM models, the problems were linked to production defects in the EPS control modules, illustrating the importance of stringent quality controls. To reduce the chances of these failures, it's recommended to regularly examine electrical connections and the condition of the EPS motor. Being proactive with maintenance could significantly reduce the odds of encountering such issues when parking or maneuvering at low speed.

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Power Steering Control Module Software Update Requirements From 2020

Starting in 2020, General Motors implemented software updates for the power steering control module (PSCM) in the 2017 GMC Sierra, addressing issues specifically related to electric power steering (EPS) functionality. One key area of focus was correcting calibration errors that led to persistent diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) even when the underlying problem was resolved. Essentially, these DTCs would flag a supposed issue even after it was fixed, which could confuse technicians trying to diagnose the issue. Another aim of the update was to reduce the frequency and intensity of sudden, temporary losses of power steering assist. This is important because these sudden losses, while often brief, can be jarring for drivers, particularly at low speeds where precision steering is needed most.

This highlights the critical role of proper software calibration within the complex EPS system. Given the intricate workings of sensors, motors, and control modules, updates become important to ensuring steering response is predictable and reliable. Drivers who experience EPS issues might be reassured by knowing that these software updates can potentially minimize those issues, especially the unexpected loss of assist that makes maneuvering and parking unpredictable. However, while these software revisions are helpful, they can't always solve every steering problem. It is still very important to check and maintain the electrical connections of the EPS system as problems there may still be a cause of steering issues.

From 2020 onward, software updates for the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) have become increasingly important in the 2017 GMC Sierra, particularly due to the growing number of reported steering problems, especially at low speeds. These updates seem to focus on fine-tuning how the steering system reacts to driver inputs, specifically when making tight turns or parking. It appears that the updates often change the settings within the torque sensor, the component that translates how much the driver turns the wheel into the correct motor response. By adjusting the motor's responsiveness, GM hopes to minimize the occurrences of that sudden loss of steering assist that owners have complained about.

It's interesting that the PSCM software utilizes what's called an 'adaptive algorithm', essentially meaning the system learns from how the vehicle is driven. This means a software update might not just fix the immediate issue but potentially improve the overall smoothness of the steering. Updates aren't just software though, the whole system needs to be re-calibrated, especially the torque sensors. This recalibration is crucial to make sure the system accurately translates driver intentions into motor action, so the steering wheel moves as expected.

It's worth noting that power steering relies on these extremely fast feedback loops, where the system is constantly adjusting the motor based on inputs from sensors. The hope with these updates is to make those adjustments happen more smoothly, particularly during low-speed situations where a quick, predictable response is vital. During updates, technicians are advised to thoroughly check the EPS module’s hardware, because if there’s a problem with the actual hardware, the update may not fix the underlying issue.

Another angle to consider is how battery voltage fluctuations can affect how the power steering behaves. These 2020+ updates seem to incorporate better management of the voltage within the PSCM itself, aiming to stabilize the system and prevent those sudden losses of assist. Testing results suggest that using the updated software can indeed reduce how often steering problems occur, highlighting the importance of staying on top of vehicle maintenance. It's tempting to conclude that this means updates address root causes, but some drivers are still seeing low speed assist issues, even after applying the updates. This points to the fact that external factors, such as damaged wires or misaligned wheels, can still lead to these types of problems, emphasizing that it's not just the software, but the entire system's condition that affects the experience.

The need for these regular updates also seems tied to the ongoing evolution of diagnostic tools. As diagnostic tools become more sophisticated, they can identify subtle problems that older software versions may not have flagged. While these updates seem like a good step forward, it's clear the problems aren't completely solved, and there are still mysteries about how various conditions affect the operation of the steering system. This underscores that continual monitoring and addressing both software and hardware issues is critical for a reliable power steering experience in these vehicles.

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Torque Sensor Failures in the EPS Assembly Causing Intermittent Assist

In the 2017 GMC Sierra's electric power steering (EPS) system, the torque sensor is crucial for translating how much the driver turns the wheel into the appropriate amount of power assist. When this sensor malfunctions, it can result in the steering assist randomly cutting in and out, which is most noticeable during low-speed situations like parking. These interruptions are disruptive and can be concerning for drivers.

The EPS system relies on a complex communication network, and a faulty torque sensor can trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like "00573" related to the sensor itself or "U0130" indicating a communication issue with the EPS control module. Additionally, if corrosion develops at the connector linking the EPS module and the torque sensor, it can lead to a complete loss of power steering assist.

While the EPS system generally uses a feedback loop to help maintain control of the vehicle, occasional or unexpected interruptions in the assist can pose a hazard, especially in situations demanding precise steering. This type of intermittent failure highlights a broader concern with the EPS system's reliability and points to the importance of regular inspections of the connections and components to mitigate potential safety risks. It seems that in some cases, the entire EPS assembly has to be replaced to get the power steering system working properly, which can be a costly repair. These intermittent failures also raise questions about the design and components used in the 2017 GMC Sierra's EPS system.

1. **Torque Sensor's Delicate Nature:** The torque sensor, crucial for translating steering wheel turns into the right power assist, relies on magnetoresistance. This makes it quite sensitive, meaning even small magnetic disturbances or slight misalignments can lead to inaccurate torque readings. This sensitivity can be amplified during driving, potentially causing problems that are difficult to predict or diagnose.

2. **Heat's Impact:** Research suggests that heat can influence how electronic components behave. In the Sierra, higher temperatures might make torque sensor issues more pronounced, particularly during low-speed maneuvering where precise control is important.

3. **Electrical Interference:** The wiring between the sensor and the EPS control module can pick up unwanted electrical "noise" from other vehicle systems. This noise can confuse the control module, leading it to misread the sensor's signals. As a result, the driver might experience sudden, unexpected drops in power steering assistance, often right when they need it most.

4. **Steering System Wear and Tear:** Components near the torque sensor, such as the steering column, naturally wear down over time, increasing friction. This added friction can interfere with the sensor's ability to move freely, resulting in inaccurate torque readings. This can lead to the random, frustrating loss of steering assist when making tight turns.

5. **Humidity's Role:** High humidity can wreak havoc on electrical systems. Moisture intrusion can corrode connections, disrupting the signal from the torque sensor. This intermittent signal loss makes power steering assist unreliable and unpredictable.

6. **Power Supply Problems:** The EPS module relies on a stable voltage supply. If the battery is aging, or connections are poor, voltage drops can occur, leading to the torque sensor not having enough power to function properly. This can make it difficult to steer in tight parking situations.

7. **Self-Diagnosis Limitations:** The EPS control module has built-in diagnostics, but they primarily catch issues that trigger obvious error codes. Subtle torque sensor problems may not produce error codes but still hurt steering performance. This lack of obvious warning signs makes diagnosing these kinds of problems a bit more challenging.

8. **System Adaptation Challenges:** The EPS system is meant to learn how a driver steers. However, a faulty torque sensor can lead to incorrect "learning" where the system either over-assists or under-assists. This leads to inconsistent and unpredictable steering behavior that can be disconcerting.

9. **Interconnected Components:** Other components in the steering system, like the steering rack and pinion, can impact the torque sensor's performance. If these parts have wear or binding issues, it can make it difficult for the torque sensor to send accurate information to the control module. This can cause inconsistent steering assist and difficulty maneuvering the truck.

10. **Beyond Recalls:** Even if a recall addresses some torque sensor issues or software glitches, real-world driving conditions and varying driving styles can still reveal underlying problems. This indicates that ongoing maintenance and awareness of these kinds of problems are essential, even after factory repairs.

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Corroded Wire Connections Between Module and Steering Components

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Corrosion within the wiring that connects the electric power steering module to other steering components is a common cause of power steering problems in the 2017 GMC Sierra. These corroded connections can lead to a sudden and often unexpected loss of power steering assistance, which is especially noticeable during slow-speed driving and parking maneuvers. The steering system relies on the seamless exchange of information between the electric power steering module and components like the torque sensor, and corrosion disrupts this critical flow of data.

When corrosion interferes with the connection between the electric module and the torque sensor, the result can be a complete loss of the steering assist feature. This kind of failure can trigger a variety of warning lights on the dashboard, including EPS and possibly other system alerts. In many cases, it appears that General Motors recommends replacing the entire assembly rather than attempting to fix corroded connections, adding to the cost of repair for drivers. This highlights the severity of this problem and the potential safety risk associated with corroded connections.

Maintaining the electrical connections and monitoring their condition is crucial to prevent steering failures and improve the reliability of the power steering system. While occasional brief loss of assist might seem like a minor annoyance, it is important to address this issue before it leads to more serious safety concerns.

Corrosion at the connections between the electric power steering (EPS) module and various steering components, like the torque sensor, can seriously disrupt the flow of electrical signals. This increased resistance can distort the voltage signals sent from the torque sensor, especially during those precise steering maneuvers needed for parking or slow-speed driving.

The combination of moisture and oxygen in the environment accelerates corrosion. This can lead to a gradual build-up of corrosion on these connectors that may go unnoticed until it causes a total electrical failure. This is obviously a major safety concern, especially when you need accurate steering control in tight situations.

Higher temperatures can speed up corrosion within the wire connections. As the vehicle engine runs and the EPS system is used, the temperature within the engine compartment increases. This causes the metal connectors to expand and contract, cracking the protective coatings over time. Cracks expose the connectors to the environment and this further accelerates corrosion and causes water to get into the connections, leading to more corrosion issues.

The EPS control module, which is a microcontroller, requires a certain range of voltage to function correctly. If the wire connections corrode and the resistance increases, then the voltage drops. This voltage drop can lead to a situation where the microcontroller in the module misinterprets signals from the sensors. This is a likely explanation for the sudden changes and loss of steering assist that many owners have complained about.

Often, these corrosion-related electrical issues become more obvious during low-speed driving when the EPS system is constantly adjusting the motor response to small driver inputs. Even tiny faults in the wiring can significantly impact the precise feedback loop that is essential for responsive steering during these types of driving situations.

Unfortunately, standard diagnostic tools may not always detect these electrical problems caused by corrosion, especially if the corrosion is intermittent. It often requires specialized equipment and techniques to diagnose corrosion-related problems because the corrosion related electrical problems often only happen under certain load conditions, for example when the driver is applying slight turns in slow-speed parking situations.

People often assume that software updates or replacing components will fix any steering issues they encounter. But many forget that regular inspection and maintenance of the connections are also vital for maintaining the long-term health of the steering system. Corrosion can silently erode the reliability of the steering system, gradually increasing the risk of a significant failure, and it's often not detected until the issue becomes critical.

The vibrations from driving over rough roads or when making turns can loosen the connections and expose them to the environment, accelerating corrosion. This makes roads with lots of potholes or bumps a factor in how fast these electrical connections degrade, further highlighting the need for regular maintenance.

If you let corrosion issues linger, the cost of repairing the damage can skyrocket. While minor corrosion might be easily fixed, if it leads to significant damage to other components in the steering system, a complete replacement of the EPS assembly could be needed.

Corrosion isn't just a steering performance issue, but a matter that affects how long the EPS system can last. Preventing corrosion by inspecting the electrical connectors, and paying attention to the vehicle's environment (like driving in areas with a lot of salt on the roads), can really increase the life of the EPS system and enhance the reliability of the steering system over time.

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Active Hydraulic Power Steering System Noise Analysis

The 2017 GMC Sierra's Active Hydraulic Power Steering system, like many similar systems, often produces a distinct hydraulic rushing sound. This noise is typically a normal byproduct of the system functioning as designed, and not a sign of trouble. However, in very cold environments, noise or fluid leakage issues can arise, prompting service recommendations outlined in certain technical service bulletins. These bulletins, like TSB 17NA345, sometimes recommend flushing and bleeding the system to address these specific problems. Interestingly, dashboard warnings like "Service Power Steering" or "Service ESC" are not always a harbinger of a significant steering problem. Sometimes, they are merely a flag that can be dismissed. However, steering issues can occasionally be tied to contaminated power steering fluid, potentially leading to a faulty bypass valve that impedes pump pressure. Replacing the flow valve is sometimes recommended in these cases. While the noises are typically normal, problems do occur, and owners should pay attention to issues beyond just normal sounds the system makes. It's important to have any suspected issues inspected and assessed by a trained technician who can diagnose and determine if the steering system noise is normal operating conditions or something requiring repair.

The Active Hydraulic Power Steering (AHPS) system in the 2017 GMC Sierra, while generally effective, can produce a noticeable hydraulic rushing sound, which is often considered normal behavior. This noise, however, can be a sign of underlying issues related to how efficiently the system operates.

One potential source of noise is the delay between the hydraulic pump's response and the steering inputs from the driver. This delay, worsened by vibrations throughout the system, can cause a disconnect in feedback, making it harder to precisely control the truck, especially during slow turns.

The characteristics of the hydraulic fluid itself, particularly its viscosity, also influence how noisy the system is. Over time or if it's contaminated, the fluid might not perform as designed, making noise and steering assistance less effective in certain situations.

Another area of investigation is the design of the components themselves. Things like the pump, steering rack, and even the way they’re connected can create noise. For example, if a part is prone to vibrating, the noise can be amplified, making it harder to identify where the root of the problem is.

The pump's design plays a key role in noise. Variable-speed pumps, while beneficial for energy efficiency, can generate more noise at low speeds because of the way the fluid moves. These pumps, by their very nature, can create more cavitation and shock waves within the fluid, which you hear as noise.

In a well-functioning system, the transfer of energy is smooth and efficient. But in a less-than-optimal system, some of the energy might be wasted as heat and noise. Not only does this reduce how efficiently the steering works, but it can also contribute to earlier-than-expected component failures.

Analyzing the noise isn't just about looking at the system as a whole. You also need to examine individual parts and their connections. For example, a loose fitting can lead to turbulence and generate noise. Detecting this allows for tightening or replacement, highlighting how complex diagnosing power steering problems can be.

Even the fluid used can play a role. Air trapped in the hydraulic fluid can create a spongy feeling in the steering and increase noise. This can erode driver confidence, especially during important maneuvers.

The AHPS system, like many other parts of a vehicle, is susceptible to environmental factors. Temperature changes, for instance, can impact component dimensions, leading to misalignment and strange noises. Humidity can be just as problematic, leading to condensation and impacting fluid performance.

Perhaps most importantly, regular maintenance for the AHPS system can be overlooked. It's tempting to focus on just performance improvements and neglect proactive maintenance. But including noise level checks during routine inspections is valuable because they can be a good early indicator of a potential issue before it turns into something big and expensive to fix.

These factors all illustrate that diagnosing and solving noise issues within an AHPS system is challenging. However, understanding the multiple factors that can contribute to noise, including the feedback loop, hydraulic fluid properties, and the impact of external factors, can pave the way for better diagnostics and improvements in the design of future steering systems.

2017 GMC Sierra Power Steering Failure Analysis Common Low-Speed Assist Issues and Electric Module Defects - Common Dashboard Warning Messages and Their Technical Meanings

Understanding the various warning lights and messages displayed on your vehicle's dashboard is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing potential issues. The 2017 GMC Sierra, with its reported power steering problems, highlights the importance of recognizing these signals. These lights are essentially the vehicle's way of communicating problems that might not be immediately obvious.

For instance, the oil pressure warning light can indicate low oil levels, which, if neglected, can lead to significant engine damage due to inadequate lubrication. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning light signals a potential problem with the ABS module, which could lead to issues with braking performance in emergency situations. A transmission temperature warning indicates that the transmission fluid is getting too hot and may require immediate action to avoid costly repairs.

It's not always immediately obvious what a warning light means. Understanding the technical reasons behind these warning messages can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs. For instance, if your battery protection mode activates, you might also see a warning related to regenerative braking being deactivated. This is the vehicle trying to protect the battery from further damage.

It's vital to pay attention to any warning message on your dash, especially those related to critical systems like oil pressure, battery status, or transmission issues. Addressing these warnings promptly can prevent major and costly problems from developing down the road, potentially averting safety risks and ensuring optimal vehicle performance. Ignoring these alerts can be risky and potentially lead to bigger problems in the long run. Taking the time to understand these warnings can help you make the right decisions about maintaining your vehicle.

1. **Dashboard Warnings Can Be Deceptive:** While a "Service Power Steering" light might sound alarming, it doesn't always signify a major problem. Sometimes, it's just a signal that the system needs a minor adjustment, which might not impact steering performance at all. It's a reminder that context is crucial when interpreting these alerts.

2. **Corrosion's Outsized Impact:** Even a small amount of corrosion on connectors can cause a disproportionately large voltage drop. This means a seemingly minor corrosion problem can suddenly lead to significant disruptions in power steering assist, making it harder to steer smoothly.

3. **Hidden Steering Issues:** Error codes like "U0130" can point to communication glitches in the electric power steering system. However, many minor problems, such as a slightly inaccurate torque sensor reading, might not trigger any error codes. This makes diagnosing those subtle issues trickier.

4. **Temperature's Influence on Steering:** The torque sensor seems to be highly sensitive to temperature. When it gets hot, its performance can be noticeably impacted, leading to slower response times and potentially reduced steering assist. This is especially worrying when precision is critical, like during tight parking.

5. **Steering System Noise:** How hydraulic pumps are designed impacts steering system noise. Variable speed pumps, while beneficial in some ways, are known to create more noise at lower speeds due to cavitation. This can lead to a less confident driving experience when you need to make fine adjustments.

6. **Software Quirks:** The reliance on adaptive algorithms in the electronic control modules (ECMs) introduces a unique challenge. If there are flaws in the programming, or if the system starts to 'learn' wrong behaviors from a faulty sensor, this can amplify steering problems over time.

7. **Environment's Role in Steering:** High humidity can cause corrosion in the wiring, which can make the power steering assistance come and go in an unpredictable way. This is especially noticeable in areas with high humidity, raising questions about the long-term reliability of the components.

8. **More Than Software:** Calibration issues aren't just related to software glitches. Misalignments in the steering system, like a slightly worn-out part, can also interfere with how the torque sensor interprets driver input. This makes it harder for the system to provide the right amount of power steering assist.

9. **Speed of Information Matters:** The electric power steering system heavily relies on rapid information exchange between components. If there's any delay caused by corrosion or other issues, like high humidity slowing down signals, it can lead to a sluggish response, making it tougher to maneuver at low speeds.

10. **Preventative Maintenance is Key:** Neglecting minor issues like corrosion in wiring can lead to costly repairs. What might start as a simple connector issue could easily escalate into needing a complete electric power steering module replacement. This highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of those often-overlooked components.