Wire to Wire Repair - Steering
Special Tools
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
WARNING: In order to reduce the risk of personal injury, loss of high voltage isolation to ground and higher system impedance, do not attempt to repair any HV wiring, connector, or terminal that is damaged. High voltage coaxial type cables are not repairable. Never attempt to repair a coaxial type cable. The entire cable/harness or component must be replaced. In order to maintain system integrity and personal safety, never attempt to repair any high voltage wiring, cables, or terminals. Performing this procedure on high voltage circuits may result in serious injury or death.
NOTE: If the wiring harness internal to the transmission is damaged, the wiring harness must be replaced. The use of splice sleeves in an attempt to repair the internal transmission wires, connectors, or terminals could result in performance issues.
NOTE: Do not splice wires in Door Harness Grommets.
NOTE: The DuraSeal splice sleeves have the following 2 critical features:
Use only DuraSeal splice sleeves to form a one-to-one splice on all types of insulation except high voltage and specialty cables. Use DuraSeal splice sleeves where there are special requirements such as moisture sealing. Follow the instructions below in order to splice copper wire using DuraSeal splice sleeves.
Splice Sleeve Selection
NOTE: You must perform the following procedures in the listed order. Repeat the procedure if any wire strands are damaged. You must obtain a clean strip with all of the wire strands intact.
1. Open the harness by removing any tape:
2. Cut as little wire off the harness as possible. You may need the extra length of wire in order to change the location of a splice.
Adjust splice locations so that each splice is at least 40 mm (1.5 in) away from the other splices, harness branches, or connectors.
3. Strip the insulation:
4. For high temperature wiring, slide a section of high temperature SCT1 shrink tubing down the length of wire to be spliced. Ensure that the shrink tubing will not interfere with the splice procedure.
5. Select the proper DuraSeal splice sleeve according to the wire size. Refer to the above table at the beginning of the repair procedure for the color coding of the DuraSeal splice sleeves and the crimp tool nests.
6.
The EL-38125-10 splice sleeve crimping tool has four crimp nests. The largest crimp nest (4) is used for crimping 10 and 12 gauge wires. The second largest crimp nest (3) is used for crimping 14 and 16 gauge wires. The third largest crimp nest (2) is used for crimping 18 and 20 gauge wires. The smallest crimp nest (1) is used for crimping 22 to 26 gauge wires. The crimp nests are referenced in the table (farther above) under the crimp tool nest color.
7.
The J-38125-8 splice sleeve crimping tool has three crimp nests. The largest crimp nest (3) is used for crimping 10 and 12 gauge wires. The second largest crimp nest (2) is used for crimping 14 and 16 gauge wires. The smallest crimp nest (1) is used for crimping 18 to 20 gauge wires. The crimp nests are referenced in the table (farther above) under the crimp tool nest color.
8. Use the splice sleeve crimp tool in order to position the DuraSeal splice sleeve in the proper color nest of the splice sleeve crimp tool. For the four crimp nest tool, use the three largest crimp nests to crimp the splice sleeves. For the three crimp nest tool, use all three crimp nests to crimp the splice sleeves. Use the four and three crimp tool diagrams (above) and the table (farther above) to match the splice sleeve with the correct crimp nest. The crimp tool diagram callout numbers match the numbers in the table (under crimp tool nest color).
9.
Place the DuraSeal splice sleeve in the nest. Ensure that the crimp falls midway between the end of the barrel and the stop. The sleeve has a stop (3) in the middle of the barrel (2) in order to prevent the wire (1) from going further. Close the hand crimper handles slightly in order to firmly hold the DuraSeal splice sleeve in the proper nest.
10.
Insert the wire into the splice sleeve barrel until the wire hits the barrel stop. Refer to Folded-Over Wire Repair for splicing wires of 0.35 mm or less (22, 24, 26 gauge sizes) and for splicing wires of different gauges.
11. Tightly close the handles of the crimp tool until the crimper handles open when released.
The crimper handles will not open until you apply the proper amount of pressure to the DuraSeal splice sleeve. Repeat steps 4 and 6 for the opposite end of the splice.
12.
Using the heat torch, apply heat to the crimped area of the barrel.
13. Start in the middle and gradually move the heat barrel to the open ends of the tubing:
Weatherpack™ Wiring Repair
NOTE: Some replacement pigtail connectors may be delivered without the terminated leads installed into the connector. For Weatherpack™ connectors, all terminated leads included in the package should to be installed into the connector. If the connector end view shows that a terminal is not occupied, the extra terminated lead(s) need to be installed and the end(s) sealed using a DuraSeal splice sleeve and taped back into the harness.
1. Insert the wire into the splice sleeve barrel until the wire hits the barrel stop. Refer to Folded-Over Wire Repair for splicing wires of 0.35 mm or less (22, 24, 26 gauge sizes) and for splicing wires of different gauges.
2. Tightly close the handles of the crimp tool until the crimper handles open when released.
The crimper handles will not open until you apply the proper amount of pressure to the DuraSeal splice sleeve. Holding the DuraSEAL with one hand gently tug on the wire to ensure it is crimped in the DuraSeal.
3. Using the heat torch, apply heat to the crimped area of the barrel.
4.
Start in the middle and gradually move the heat barrel to the open ends of the tubing:
5.
Tape the extra terminated lead(s) back into the harness.
High Temperature Wiring Repairs
Use the following procedures to perform high temperature wiring repairs:
1. Center the high temperature SCT1 shrink tube over the DuraSeal splice sleeve.
2. Using the heat torch, apply heat to the high temperature heat shrink tubing.
3. Gradually move the heat from the center to the open end of the tubing:
4. Replace any reflective tape and clips that may have been removed during the repair.
Connector Reconnection - Steering
Special Tools
EL-35616 Terminal Test Probe Kit
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.
When the condition is not currently present, but is indicated in DTC history, the cause may be intermittent.
An intermittent may also be the cause when there is a customer complaint, but the symptom cannot be duplicated. Refer to the Symptom Table of the system that is suspect of causing the condition before trying to locate an intermittent condition.
Most intermittent conditions are caused by faulty electrical connections or wiring. Inspect for the following items:
Testing for Terminal Fretting
Some intermittent conditions can be caused by wire terminal fretting corrosion. Fretting corrosion is a build-up of insulating, oxidized wear debris that can form when there is a small motion between electrical contacts. The oxidized wear debris can pile up enough at the electrical contact spots that the electrical resistance across the connection increases. Movement between the contacting surfaces as small as 10 to 100 microns can cause fretting. To put this in perspective, a sheet of paper is about 100 microns thick, so fretting motion is small and hard to see. Vibration and thermal expansion/contraction are the main sources that create fretting motion. Since vehicles vibrate and can experience large temperature swings, they are a good source for fretting motion. Tin, copper, nickel, and iron surfaces are all susceptible to fretting corrosion. Fretting corrosion can be difficult to see but it looks like small, dark smudges on the terminals contact surface.
To correct a fretting condition disconnect the suspect connector and add dielectric grease / lubricant (Nyogel 760G or equivalent, meeting GM specification 9986087) to both sides of the connector terminals.
Then reconnect the connector and wipe away any excess lubricant. This will correct the additional terminal contact resistance due to the terminal fretting corrosion.
Testing for Proper Terminal Contact
It is important to test terminal contact at the component and any inline connectors before replacing a suspect component. Mating terminals must be inspected to ensure good terminal contact. A poor connection between the male and female terminal at a connector may be the result of contamination or deformation.
Contamination may be caused by the connector halves being improperly connected. A missing or damaged connector seal, damage to the connector itself, or exposing the terminals to moisture and dirt can also cause contamination. Contamination, usually in the underhood or underbody connectors, leads to terminal corrosion, causing an open circuit or intermittently open circuit.
Deformation is caused by probing the mating side of a connector terminal without the proper adapter.
Always use the EL-35616 kit when probing connectors. Other causes of terminal deformation are improperly joining the connector halves, or repeatedly separating and joining the connector halves.
Deformation, usually to the female terminal contact tang, can result in poor terminal contact causing an open or intermittently open circuit.
Testing for Proper Terminal Contact in Bussed Electrical Centers
It is very important to use the correct test adapter when testing for proper terminal contact of fuses and relays in a bussed electrical center. Use the EL-35616 kit to test for proper terminal contact. Failure to use the EL-35616 kit can result in improper diagnosis of the bussed electrical center.
Follow the procedure below in order to test terminal contact:
1. Separate the connector halves.
2. Visually inspect the connector halves for contamination. Contamination may result in a white or green build-up within the connector body or between terminals. This causes high terminal resistance, intermittent contact, or an open circuit. An underhood or underbody connector that shows signs of contamination should be replaced in its entirety: terminals, seals, and connector body.
3. Using an equivalent male terminal/terminated lead, verify that the retention force is significantly different between a known good terminal and the suspect terminal. Replace the female terminal in question.
Flat Wire Connectors
There are no serviceable parts for flat wire connectors on the harness side or the component side.
Follow the procedure below in order to test terminal contact:
1. Remove the component in question.
2. Visually inspect each side of the connector for signs of contamination. Avoid touching either side of the connector as oil from your skin may be a source of contamination as well.
3. Visually inspect the terminal bearing surfaces of the flat wire circuits for splits, cracks, or other imperfections that could cause poor terminal contact. Visually inspect the component side connector to ensure that all of the terminals are uniform and free of damage or deformation.
4. Insert the appropriate adapter into the flat wire harness connector in order to test the circuit in question.
Control Module/Component Voltage and Grounds
Poor voltage or ground connections can cause widely varying symptoms.
Temperature Sensitivity
Electromagnetic Interference and Electrical Noise
Some electrical components/circuits are sensitive to electromagnetic interference or other types of electrical noise. Inspect for the following conditions:
Incorrect Control Module
NOTE: DO NOT re-program the control module with the SAME software/calibration files that are already present in the control module. This is not an effective repair for any type of concern.
Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement
Preliminary Procedure
Remove the front tire and wheel assembly.
Procedure
Special Tools
CH-24319 - B Universal Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller Equivalent regional tools:Special Tools
STEERING GEAR BOOT REPLACEMENT
Preliminary Procedure
Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
NOTE: Position the NEW steering gear boot inner clamp on the steering gear boot before installing the boot on the steering gear.
Special Tools
DT-35910 Drive Axle Boot Clamp Pliers
Equivalent regional tools:Special Tools
STEERING GEAR HEAT SHIELD REPLACEMENT
Electric Dual Pinion Rack and Pinion Steering Gear Replacement
Removal Procedure
CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage many solid-state electrical components. ESD susceptible components may or may not be labeled with the ESD symbol. Handle all electrical components carefully. Use the following precautions in order to avoid ESD damage:
Connect the ground lead first when using test probes.
Do not rest solid-state components on metal workbenches, or on top of TVs, radios, or other electrical devices.
CAUTION: During removal and installation, all EPS components including mechanical and/or electrical is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping or prying on any EPS component may cause internal damage. If damage occurs or a part is dropped, the EPS component must be replaced.
CAUTION: Care must be taken during removal and installation of the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) components to not hit or break the EPS motor/controller module or module harness connectors. If the EPS motor/ controller module or module connectors are damaged, the complete component must be replaced.
1.
Disconnect the steering gear electrical connectors (1).
2. Remove the steering gear wiring harness clips (2) from the mounting points on the steering gear.
3.
Drivetrain and Front Suspension Cradle(1) - Remove.
4.
Front Stabilizer Shaft(1)@Steering Gear(2) - Reposition away.
5.
Steering Gear Bolt(1) - Remove[2x].
6. Remove the steering gear (2) from the drivetrain and front suspension cradle.
7. Transfer components as necessary.
Installation Procedure
1.
Position the steering gear (2) on the drivetrain and front suspension cradle.
CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution.
2. Steering Gear Bolt(1) - Install and tighten[2x].
Tighten
3.
Front Stabilizer Shaft(1)@Steering Gear(2) - Reposition.
4.
Drivetrain and Front Suspension Cradle(1) - Install.
5.
Connect the steering gear electrical connectors (1).
6. Install the steering gear wiring harness clips (2) in the mounting points on the steering gear.
7. Program the power steering control module.
8. Measure the wheel alignment.
STEERING LINKAGE INNER TIE ROD REPLACEMENT
Preliminary Procedures
1. Steering Gear Boot Replacement.
2. After removing the steering gear boot, inspect the steering linkage inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.
CAUTION: Refer to Component Fastener Tightening Caution.
Procedure
- Place a wrench on the flats of the steering linkage inner tie rod housing.
- Rotate the steering linkage inner tie rod housing counterclockwise to remove the steering linkage inner tie rod from the steering gear rack.
- Rotate the steering linkage inner tie rod housing clockwise to install the steering linkage inner tie rod to the steering gear rack.
Use the CH-6321 wrench and a torque wrench to tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod to specification.- Measure and adjust the front toe.
Tighten 105 N.m (77 lb ft)
Special Tools
CH-6321 Inner Tie Rod Wrench
Equivalent regional tools:Special Tools
STEERING GEAR DRIVE COUPLING REPLACEMENT
Preliminary Procedure
Power Steering Assist Motor Replacement.
NOTE: The steering gear drive coupling connects the power steering assist motor to the steering gear.
Power Steering Assist Motor Replacement
Removal Procedure
CAUTION: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage many solid-state electrical components. ESD susceptible components may or may not be labeled with the ESD symbol. Handle all electrical components carefully. Use the following precautions in order to avoid ESD damage:
Do not rest solid-state components on metal workbenches, or on top of TVs, radios, or other electrical devices.
CAUTION: During removal and installation, all EPS components including mechanical and/or electrical is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping or prying on any EPS component may cause internal damage. If damage occurs or a part is dropped, the EPS component must be replaced.
CAUTION: Care must be taken during removal and installation of the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) components to not hit or break the EPS motor/controller module or module harness connectors. If the EPS motor/ controller module or module connectors are damaged, the complete component must be replaced.
1. Perform the strategy based diagnosis. Performing the strategy based diagnostics includes reviewing related bulletins, preliminary information and diagnostics.
NOTE:
2. Capture the key cycle count from the OLD steering gear control module. If the key cycle count from the OLD steering gear control module is NOT captured, it will NOT be possible to flash the NEW steering gear control module.
3. Steering Gear - Remove.
4.
CAUTION: Do NOT pry on the Power Steering Assist Motor electrical
connector.
Prying on the Power Steering Assist Motor electrical connector could
crack the Power Steering Assist Motor housing. If the Power Steering
Assist Motor housing is cracked, the motor assembly must be
replaced.
Remove the connector position assurance lock (1) from the electrical connector(2).
5. Discard the connector position assurance lock if damaged during removal.
6.
Depress connector tab (1) and disconnect the electrical connector (2) from the power steering assist motor(3).
7.
Power Steering Assist Motor Bolt(1) - Remove and DISCARD[2x].
8. Power Steering Assist Motor(2) - Remove.
9.
Remove the Steering Gear Drive Coupling(1) - Remove and DISCARD.
10. Power Steering Assist Motor Seal(2) - Remove and DISCARD.
NOTE:
11. Inspect the steering gear motor shaft and inside of the steering gear housing for signs of water intrusion or corrosion. If no signs of water intrusion or corrosion are present proceed to the next step.
If signs of water intrusion or corrosion are present then replace the steering gear.
Installation Procedure
1.
Power Steering Assist Motor Seal(2) - Install NEW.
2. After the power steering assist motor seal (2) is placed on the power steering assist motor, apply a thin layer of grease to the seal.
3. Steering Gear Drive Coupling(1) - Install NEW.
4.
NOTE: The steering gear drive coupling and assist motor armature should be aligned with the gear inside of the steering gear housing to aid in installation, otherwise interference MAY occur.
Position the power steering assist motor (2) with the steering gear housing and start the power steering assist NEW motor bolt(1).[2x].
5. With the power steering assist motor bolt (1) started, completely install the power steering assist motor (2)to the steering gear housing.
CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution.
6. Power steering assist motor bolt (1) Install NEW and tighten[2x] 21 N.m (15 lb ft).
7.
Connect the electrical connector (1) to the power steering assist motor.
8. Verify connector (1) is fully seated by lightly pulling on the connector.
9.
NOTE: If the connector position assurance lock (1) was damaged during removal, discard it and skip step 8.
Install the connector position assurance lock (1) into the electrical connector (2) until fully seated.
10. Steering Gear - Install.
11. Transfer the key cycle count from the OLD steering gear control module to the NEW steering gear control module.
POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE CALIBRATION
Steering Angle Sensor Centering and Software Endstop Learning
WARNING: An inaccurate or not centered steering angle sensor could limit the operation of the electric power steering and may result in personal injury.
Centering of the steering angle sensor and software endstop learning might be required after certain service procedures are performed. Some of these procedures are as follows:
NOTE: It is necessary to perform the steering angle sensor centering BEFORE the software endstop learning.
Steering Angle Sensor Centering
For electronic power steering equipped vehicles WITH electronic stability control program and EXTERNAL Steering Angle Sensor, refer to Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Centering.
The centering procedure of the internal steering angle sensor (w/o electronic stability program) can be completed with the following steps: Conditions: Front axle measured and set, engine running, vehicle speed 0 km/h (0 MPH), internal steering angle sensor is activated.
1. Using the steering wheel, align the front wheels in the center forward position.
2. Using a scan tool, perform the Configuration/Reset Functions, Steering Wheel Angle Sensor Centering procedure.
3. Steer from the center position slowly 90º to the left.
4. Steer slowly back to the center position and then slowly 90º to the right.
5. Steer slowly back to the center position.
6. Perform the steering movements again.
7. Centering procedure is completed.
Software Endstop Learning
The software endstop learning procedure can be completed with the following steps:
Conditions: Front axle measured and set, vehicle speed 0 km/h (0 MPH), internal steering angle sensor is calibrated or external steering angle sensor sends a valid CAN signal.
1. Using a scan tool, perform the Configuration/Reset Functions, Power Steering Softstops Reset procedure and follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Using a scan tool, perform the Configuration/Reset Functions, Power Steering Softstops Learn procedure and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Software endstop learning procedure is completed.