2016 – MX-5 – Steering

GENERAL PROCEDURES (STEERING)

WARNING:

• Always inspect the steering component carefully for any shock or impact which may have occurred during a collision or servicing operation. If a damaged part or a part suspected of being damaged is used, it could result in an unexpected accident due to the steering mechanism being inoperative. Always replace the damaged part or part suspected of being damaged.

• If the steering wheel is turned from lock to lock continuously or the steering rack is operated to one end continuously, such high-load steering action increases the temperature (to approx. 120 °C {248 °F}) of the steering gear (EPS motor), and could cause severe burns. Be careful when handling the steering gear.

• If the steering gear is dropped, the EPS CM could be damaged internally causing the steering mechanism to become inoperative, which could result in an unexpected accident. Always replace the EPS CM if it has been subjected to an impact.

CAUTION:

• If the steering gear is stored in a humid place, the EPS system may not operate properly when installed to the vehicle. Store the steering gear in a suitable place.

• Because the weight of the steering gear is approx. 13 kg {29 lb}, it may fall off during servicing and be damaged. Be careful when handling the steering gear.

• If the intermediate shaft is connected to the steering gear (pinion) before installing the steering column to the dashboard member, the weight of the steering column could cause damage to the intermediate shaft slider/bush/yoke. Always follow the procedure in the Workshop Manual.

• The universal joint could be damaged if subjected to an impact when the intermediate shaft (pinion) is disconnected. Perform the servicing carefully avoiding impact when disconnecting the intermediate shaft from the steering gear (pinion).

• Do not release the lock of the tilt lever when handling the steering column unless it is securely installed to the dashboard member. If the tilt lever is unlocked with the steering column not securely installed, the steering column and other parts could be damaged.

• A new steering column is shipped in a pre-set condition. Maintain this condition until the steering column is completely installed to the dashboard member so as to avoid damage during transportation and installation.

• When removing/installing the steering column, keep the wiring harness away from the steering column installation area so as to prevent the steering column from being caught in the wiring harness and damaged.

NOTE:

• If the vehicle is driven in a straight line at a vehicle speed of approx. 10 km/h {6.2 mph} or more, the EPS CM detects the steering angle neutral position automatically. Until the self-learning of the steering angle neutral position is finished, the EPS CM performs assist control based on the steering angle recognized when the ignition is switched ON (engine off or on).

• When installing a replacement part, be careful not to rotate the steering shaft until the installation has been completed.

• In order to completely interrupt the EPS system power supply, do not disconnect the battery for 60 s or more after the ignition switch is turned off.

• Do not replace the steering gear (EPS system) with that of another vehicle even if they are the same model.

• Before connecting the EPS CM connector, remove the fuse or disconnect the battery to interrupt the power supply completely.

Wheel And Tire Installation

1. When installing the wheels and tires, tighten the wheel nuts to the following tightening torque in the order shown in the figure.

Tightening Torque

• 108—147 N·m {12—14 kgf·m, 80—108 ft·lbf}

EPS Related Parts

CAUTION:

• The EPS will not operate normally if the EPS CM configuration is not completed. Always perform the EPS CM auto configuration after replacing the EPS CM so that the EPS will operate normally.

1. Verify that there are no DTCs in the EPS memory after working on EPS related parts. If DTCs are stored in the EPS memory, go to the applicable diagnostic trouble code procedure. (See DTC INSPECTION [EPS CONTROL MODULE].) (See CLEARING DTC [EPS CONTROL MODULE].)

2. Always perform the EPS CM auto configuration after replacing the EPS CM.

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