Lemon Law for Faulty Steering Sensors

Steering that suddenly goes heavy, a dashboard EPS light that won’t stay off, or a car that drifts and resists correction can all point to faulty steering sensors. In California, defects like these can raise lemon law questions—especially when repeated dealer visits don’t fix the problem. This article explains how California’s lemon law can apply to steering-sensor issues, what signs to watch for, and practical steps to protect your rights. It’s general information only; for guidance about your specific situation, please consult a lawyer.

California Lemon Law for Faulty Steering Sensors

Modern vehicles rely on electronic power steering (EPS) systems that read input from multiple sensors—often including a torque sensor, a steering angle sensor, and yaw or wheel-speed sensors. When one of these sensors is faulty or out of calibration, you may experience intermittent power assist, warning lights, inconsistent steering effort, or unintended lane drift. Because steering affects safety, recurring sensor problems can “substantially impair” a vehicle’s use, value, or safety—an important concept under California’s lemon law.

California’s lemon law (part of the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) generally covers new vehicles—and many used vehicles—sold or leased with the manufacturer’s warranty. If, during the warranty period, a defect that substantially impairs use, value, or safety is not fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or the vehicle is out of service for a significant number of days, you may be entitled to remedies. Those remedies can include repurchase, replacement, or, in some situations, a cash settlement. What counts as “reasonable” depends on the facts, including the number of visits, days in the shop, and severity of the safety risk.

Consider a common pattern: the EPS light triggers on the freeway, steering becomes heavy, and the dealer reprograms the control module. A few weeks later, the light returns, the vehicle pulls to one side, and the dealer replaces the angle sensor. If the problem resurfaces—perhaps with a torque sensor code and another failed calibration—the repeated attempts may support a potential lemon claim. Every case is unique, and outcomes vary. A consultation is necessary to evaluate whether your steering-sensor history meets California’s standards.

Signs, Repairs, and Your Warranty Rights in CA

Warning signs of steering-sensor problems often include an EPS or steering wheel icon on the dash, sudden loss or fluctuation of power assist, stiff or “twitchy” steering at low speeds, and a steering wheel that will not center after a turn. You might notice the lane-keeping or stability control features turn off, or hear a chime with messages like “Service Power Steering” or “Steering Assist Reduced.” Some drivers describe a brief jerk at startup, then heavy steering until the car is restarted.

When you visit the dealer, ask for a written repair order describing your complaint in your own words and listing any diagnostic trouble codes, parts replaced (e.g., steering angle sensor, torque sensor, rack assembly), and software updates or calibrations performed. Keep copies of every repair order and invoice, even if the visit was “no problem found.” Documentation of dates, mileage, and days out of service is often critical. It’s also sensible to check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recalls tied to steering or EPS for your vehicle’s year and model.

If the issue returns, report it promptly and continue to document each visit. If your warranty is close to expiring, make sure the defect is reported in writing before expiration. Do not ignore safety symptoms—if the vehicle feels unsafe, consider towing rather than driving. You can also contact the manufacturer to open a case number and note your repeated repair attempts. If you think your steering-sensor problems might qualify under California’s lemon law, consider speaking with a law firm like ZapLemon to discuss your options and next steps.