FAQ
TL;DR: After replacing a Meriva A steering angle/torque sensor, target a 0° angle and 0 Nm torque “zero” using a tester; as one expert notes, “Precise calibration is performed with a tester.” [Elektroda, tomjey, post #20899822]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps DIYers and techs fix no-assist issues (C1500) and decide when calibration is mandatory on ESP vs non-ESP cars.
Quick Facts
- Non-ESP Meriva A may work immediately if the sensor is perfectly centered and locked during assembly. [Elektroda, saly, post #20469750]
- Proper calibration writes 0° angle and 0 Nm torque reference values into the controller. [Elektroda, tomjey, post #20899822]
- DTC C1500 may report “Incorrect sensor signal” or “Voltage out of range,” and power steering won’t start. [Elektroda, saly, post #17449604]
- Mount the torque/angle sensor exactly on the alignment marks; small misalignment causes issues. [Elektroda, audic5, post #20468222]
- Bosch KTS can perform the calibration sequence when steering force feels uneven left vs right. [Elektroda, audic5, post #20470554]
Do I have to calibrate after replacing the sensor on a Meriva A without ESP?
If you install the sensor perfectly centered and locked, the electric power steering can work without calibration. Many techs still calibrate to fine-tune assist. Mechanical centering first, then test drive. Calibration improves optimal feel but isn’t always required on non-ESP cars. [Elektroda, saly, post #20469750]
Why is calibration recommended even after perfect mechanical alignment?
Calibration zeroes the stored references in the controller to 0° angle and 0 Nm torque. This matches the new sensor to the car’s ECU and ensures balanced assist. As one expert says, “Precise calibration is performed with a tester.” [Elektroda, tomjey, post #20899822]
What does DTC C1500 mean on the Meriva A EPS?
C1500 indicates sensor signal faults, including “Incorrect sensor signal” or “Voltage out of range.” When present at startup, the EPS disables assist and live parameters may freeze. Diagnose the sensor, wiring, and installation before attempting calibration. [Elektroda, saly, post #17449604]
How do I align the torque and angle sensor correctly?
Fit the sensor exactly on its alignment marks. The torque and steering angle elements must be seated without pre-load. Even slight misalignment will skew readings and may block calibration. Work slowly and verify straight-ahead before locking. [Elektroda, audic5, post #20468222]
Quick How-To: install and set zero on a non-ESP Meriva A
- Lock the column straight-ahead and secure the sensor using its pin/jig, avoiding any pre-tension.
- Seat the sensor on the marks, then lock it and recheck that readings sit near zero.
- Road-test; calibrate only if assist is uneven or readings drift. [Elektroda, saly, post #20469750]
Can I calibrate a sensor that was installed slightly crooked or under stress?
No. A crookedly inserted sensor will not calibrate. Remove stress, realign on the marks, and ensure the unit is relaxed at straight-ahead before retrying the calibration routine. [Elektroda, Strumien swiadomosci swia, post #21753129]
What’s different between ESP and non-ESP columns for this job?
ESP-equipped versions use keyed components (cutter) on the sensor, shaft, and wheel. You cannot mount them arbitrarily or rely on a simple straight-ahead lock as with some non-ESP setups. Plan on using the tester for final alignment. [Elektroda, vokotibi, post #21753231]
My test shows torque changes but the angle stays fixed. What does that indicate?
If torque reacts when you twist the wheel but the angle remains static—and a C1500 sets at boot—the angle sensing path is faulty or the unit is bad. Replace or refit the sensor before calibration attempts. [Elektroda, saly, post #17449670]
Do I need to loosen the intermediate shaft to fit the sensor?
Yes, loosen the power-steering shaft near the footwell. The sensor won’t insert in a simple straight-ahead position; you’ll fit while turned, then refit and align again. Use quality parts to reduce wear risks. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #21751802]
Which diagnostic tools can calibrate the Meriva A steering sensor?
Bosch KTS can run the calibration. Use it when left/right assist feels different or after sensor replacement. Follow prompts to zero angle and torque, then confirm values at center. [Elektroda, audic5, post #20470554]
Is buying a used steering angle/torque sensor a good idea?
Used sensors are a lottery. Internal tracks may be worn and only work briefly. Choose reputable “original” units and avoid low-quality clones, even if only slightly cheaper. [Elektroda, enhanced, post #21751802]
Any tricks if calibration keeps failing?
Remove any pre-load. Ensure the steering wheel and shaft aren’t tightening the sensor. Press the sensor home, release the clip, and lift the front wheels to reduce friction. Then rerun calibration. [Elektroda, saly, post #20470611]
What readings should I see at straight-ahead after correct installation?
Expect the force (torque) reading to sit near zero and angle close to 0°. That indicates a relaxed, correctly centered sensor, ready for or after calibration. [Elektroda, saly, post #20908065]
What exactly is the steering angle/torque sensor in this system?
It measures wheel angle and driver-applied torque. The controller uses these to deliver assist. During calibration, the ECU stores 0° and 0 Nm as reference baselines to interpret signals accurately. [Elektroda, tomjey, post #20899822]
