In today's trucking industry, a growing number of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies integrate steering systems as their capabilities evolve and expand.
Functions like lane keep assist, compensation for side winds and road crown, active steering return, and road disturbance suppression all depend on properly maintained and connected steering systems. Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has recently published a technical bulletin addressing proper inspection and troubleshooting of steering systems on vehicles equipped with steering assist technologies to support this growing field.
“Not surprisingly, drivers are almost always the first to notice a potential issue with a steering-assist-connected system because they’re very familiar with how steering is supposed to feel, and they usually immediately recognize when something’s not right,” says Brendon Goede, Bendix product manager – torque overlay.
“We’re talking about situations where the steering wheel feels like it’s ‘binding,’ becoming difficult to steer, or exhibits irregular steering behavior outside of what may be described in the vehicle operator’s or system manual. These can occur either while driving or when the truck is stationary, but we emphasize that if you think the vehicle’s steering gear feels abnormal — first pull the truck over to a safe location and check that the steering assist features are functioning as described in the vehicle operator’s manual and/or system manual. If you feel that the vehicle’s steering is not functioning as described in the vehicle and/or system manual, then a further evaluation by a trained professional is required.”
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Goede adds, “It’s also important to follow the right troubleshooting steps before diving in and replacing a steering gear itself, when the right solution could be simpler and more cost-effective.”
He says Bendix safety technologies complement safe driving practices and are not intended to enable or encourage aggressive driving. No commercial vehicle safety technology replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driver training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times, Bendix says.
