Principles of Operation

Principles of Operation

Variable Assist Power Steering (VAPS)
The variable assist power steering (VAPS) system controls the level of power assistance available to the driver based on vehicle speed. At less than 3.2 km/h (2 mph), full power steering assist is provided to decrease steering effort and increase maneuverability. Between 3.2 km/h (2 mph) and 191 km/h (119 mph), steering assist decreases gradually at a calibrated rate to raise steering efforts for increased directional stability and greater road feel. At greater than 191 km/h (119 mph), steering assist is constant.

The air suspension module outputs a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) current to the control valve actuator. The control valve actuator controls the hydraulic valve that determines the amount of hydraulic assist provided to the steering gear. The amount of assistance provided varies with the control valve actuator current, which is based on the vehicle speed.

The vehicle speed is provided to the air suspension module by the powertrain control module (PCM).