Circuit Operation

The MAGNASTEER(R) system uses inputs from the ABS Wheel Speed to determines the desired amount of power steering effort.

The EBTCM constantly compares the amount of current flowing through the MAGNASTEER(R) Solenoid Actuator to the desired current it has calculated. The EBTCM can change the amount of current flowing through the MAGNASTEER(R) solenoid actuator. Any change in the current flow causes the pole pieces in the actuator to want to align themselves with the permanent magnet attached to the rotary input shaft. More current flow generates a stronger magnetic field increasing the torque necessary to turn the input shaft. The increased torque causes higher steering efforts. If the actuator is disconnected, the magnetic force generated by the actuator will be nonexistent, leading to medium power steering effort at all speeds.

The EBTCM detects the following component malfunctions:
^ The MAGNASTEER(R) Solenoid Actuator
^ The MAGNASTEER(R) Solenoid Actuator circuitry

Detected malfunctions cause the power steering effort to remain at medium for all speeds.

Under normal system operation any increase in vehicle speed decreases power steering effort. Normal system operation improves road feel and improves directional stability.