electric power steering

[ciagsmoge]

I have an LS 430 which has been standing outside on blocks for 7 months whilst wheels were refurbished. Having replaced the wheels and giving it a test run.  I find that the electric power steering no longer works properly. It will not work in forward drive but works in reverse.  Any ideas?

 

Tom

[Britprius]

Tom. It is likely that it does not work in reverse either. It is just the way the steering geometry is set that makes the steering lighter in reverse.

Are you sure it is electric power steering? I was under the impression "I could be wrong" that only the hybrids had electric power steering all the others using a conventional hydraulic system.

John

[ciagsmoge]

Hi,

Its Actually a Toyota Majesta so that may be the reason but it has the LS 430 VVti 3UZfe engine. Definitely works as it should in reverse.  I had a thought about the Battery which was totally flat and needed jump starting.  Could that be the problem?  I'm going to replace it any way in the next day or two.  The car is presently sorned with no tax  insurance or MOT, but obviously it all wants sorting before going back on the road.

[Britprius]

The Battery could well be the problem if it is electric steering. The 12 volt power steering systems use a lot of amps to supply the electric motor. The hybrids often use 48 volts to run the power steering as this reduces the current to a 1/4. The hybrids use a voltage converter run off the high voltage traction Battery.

John.