[pdqtimetrialer]

For our 2016 Rav4, there was an instance where my wife left keys in the ignition ON position and drained the battery. The car was jumped started, the AWD and VSC lights remained ON.

Basic code readers from Autozone or O'Reilly's are not able to read the code. The Rav4 has several computers or "modules" for different functions of the car. Very basic code readers only read the engine and emission module. A more advanced code reader is required to read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. I purchased an Autel MK808BT which has far more capabilities than required for this job. I like this scanner because it has bi-directional features - it can bleed the ABS module, do programming for the TPS sensors, plus other functions. The important thing is to find a scanner that can read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. The key indication the steering angle sensor is bad is a U0126 Steering Angle Sensor Lost Communication.

I purchased a replacement steering angle sensor from ebay for about $90. Part number 89245-12040.

Attached are step-by-step instructions on how to do the replacement. It was pretty easy to do. Just take your time and don't pry too hard on any of the connections. Other posts mentioned a steering angle sensor replacement at the dealer costs more than $1000. Most backyard mechanics should be able to do this repair.

By the nature of the instructions, you'll also see how to remove the steering wheel air bag and the clock spring.

 

[Fibber2]

Did you create this acrobat file? Nice!

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

Yes, I created the pdf file because I couldn't find directions specific to 4th generation Rav4's. I looked at a bunch of youtube videos and Tacoma and Sienna posts to get an idea on how to do the job.

 

[RD180]

You can get complete service manuals at techinfo.toyota.com for $20/day.

You can get access to all Toyota computer diagnostics, error codes, calibrations and programming with $20 Mini VCI cable and Techstream Software

 

[Fibber2]

I think you did a great job! Organized, nicely detailed.

I love my Autel TS-508. They make excellent tools at very affordable prices. If you have to work on several different makes and don't want to go down the bootleg avenue (or upgrade my Autoenginuity with individual mfg modules), the MK808BT is probably an excellent alternative. But any idea what the software updates cost after year one?

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

I don't have a need to update the software much. I use it for our cars and my step-sons borrow it on occasion for their trucks.

 

[Fibber2]

I guess $100 every few years isn't terrible considering the modest initial cost. That gets you new released vehicles and bug fixes.

One of the things that sold me on the TS-508 was the lifetime support.

 

[Wilsonkuo]

For our 2016 Rav4, there was an instance where my wife left keys in the ignition ON position and drained the battery. The car was jumped started, the AWD and VSC lights remained ON.

Basic code readers from Autozone or O'Reilly's are not able to read the code. The Rav4 has several computers or "modules" for different functions of the car. Very basic code readers only read the engine and emission module. A more advanced code reader is required to read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. I purchased an Autel MK808BT which has far more capabilities than required for this job. I like this scanner because it has bi-directional features - it can bleed the ABS module, do programming for the TPS sensors, plus other functions. The important thing is to find a scanner that can read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. The key indication the steering angle sensor is bad is a U0126 Steering Angle Sensor Lost Communication.

I purchased a replacement steering angle sensor from ebay for about $90. Part number 89245-12040.

Attached are step-by-step instructions on how to do the replacement. It was pretty easy to do. Just take your time and don't pry too hard on any of the connections. Other posts mentioned a steering angle sensor replacement at the dealer costs more than $1000. Most backyard mechanics should be able to do this repair.

By the nature of the instructions, you'll also see how to remove the steering wheel air bag and the clock spring.

Hi there, I am a new rookie here and am asking for some help. My 2014 Rav4 has a similar situation that we completely drained the battery and now we have AWD, Vsc, and skip control lights on at first start up in the morning. And then the lights would only go out when restarting the car. My code reader is an Autel as well and it read U0073 and U0126. I cleared the codes and drove the car, the first code that would come back on is the the u0073, and then followed by the u0126. I wonder if you had the same codes and similar situation? I am trying to avoid unnecessary repair but u0073 is pointing at the abs module and I wonder if replacing the clock spring would do the trick. Thank you so much for any inputs!!! Blessings!!!

 

[Fibber2]

U0126 relates to communications with the steering angle sensor (also per the OP's post), and U0073 is an error code for the control system for the Dynamic Torque Control AWD engagement. They are actually related, in that the service manual procedure for diagnosis of U0073 (Control Module Comm Bus) has Steering Angle Sensor listed as one of it's inputs. But realize that without a scope to verify waveforms and some in-depth understanding of the interplay between these systems and what might have gotten zapped, you are on a fishing expedition.

 

[Wilsonkuo]

U0126 relates to communications with the steering angle sensor (also per the OP's post), and U0073 is an error code for the control system for the Dynamic Torque Control AWD engagement. They are actually related, in that the service manual procedure for diagnosis of U0073 (Control Module Comm Bus) has Steering Angle Sensor listed as one of it's inputs. But realize that without a scope to verify waveforms and some in-depth understanding of the interplay between these systems and what might have gotten zapped, you are on a fishing expedition.

Thank you Fibber2 for replying back!
So would you suggest a subscription of Toyota service manual online? My autel maxi pro sure can do lots of scoping around, but I need to find out where I can start with? Any inputs? Thank you!

 

[Fibber2]

I've got an 'aftermarket' manual that resembles a subscription that I once had full access to, but it lacks a lot of diagnostic detail. I would hope that a TIS factory manual would give a tech more 'tools' for tracing this to it's root cause. I unfortunately can't help you much further with the information that I have at hand.

 

[Wilsonkuo]

I've got an 'aftermarket' manual that resembles a subscription that I once had full access to, but it lacks a lot of diagnostic detail. I would hope that a TIS factory manual would give a tech more 'tools' for tracing this to it's root cause. I unfortunately can't help you much further with the information that I have at hand.

Okay, I just don’t want to throw parts on it and found out I was heading to the wrong direction. However, a code of p0126 is pretty much guaranteed that my Rav4 has a clock spring problem? I might give it a try then. I hope there could be more help on this forum. Thanks!!

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

I recall checking the voltage at the SAS itself. My memory is that with the Key-on-engine-off, you should see 12V between IG1 and ESS. I had a hard time getting a good reading but only saw around 4-5V. It gave me enough confidence to go ahead and replace the steering sensor. I couldn't find the original picture I referenced but believe the diagram attached is correct.

If your scanner has the capability, you can try to do a steering angle calibration. If the scanner is able to communicate with the SAS, then you know the SAS is good.

If you can find a similar pin-out for the VSC module, it may help you narrow down which device is bad.

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

Also note the clock spring and steering angle sensor are two different items. The steering angle sensor mounts to the clock spring. It could be the steering angle sensor that is bad, not the clockspring.

 

[Wilsonkuo]

View attachment 149289 I recall checking the voltage at the SAS itself. My memory is that with the Key-on-engine-off, you should see 12V between IG1 and ESS. I had a hard time getting a good reading but only saw around 4-5V. It gave me enough confidence to go ahead and replace the steering sensor. I couldn't find the original picture I referenced but believe the diagram attached is correct.

If your scanner has the capability, you can try to do a steering angle calibration. If the scanner is able to communicate with the SAS, then you know the SAS is good.

If you can find a similar pin-out for the VSC module, it may help you narrow down which device is bad.

Thank you so much for the info, pdqtimetrialer! I will take it apart and report back, but right now I kind of want to get a new one on my hand first. Dealer wants me to buy both the clock spring and angle sensor as one set $469.03, and there isn’t any way around It. Btw, my autel can show me the steering angle while turning the steering wheel and I sure found the sensor isn’t sending any signal to the scanner. I am only hoping that is it and my abs or vsc modules aren’t at fault as well.

 

[Wilsonkuo]

Also note the clock spring and steering angle sensor are two different items. The steering angle sensor mounts to the clock spring. It could be the steering angle sensor that is bad, not the clockspring.

My code reader only shows me the u0073 (Control Module Communication Bus 'A' Off) and u0126 (Lost Communication With Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) Module).
I think I will try to get only the angle sensor and report back. Thanks!!

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

Ebay has new steering angle sensors for a 2014 RAV4 ranging from $80-$160. I would not purchase a pre-owned part. A search of Toyota dealers had the module for around $350. I bought one of the $80 sensors with the mindset if it didn't work, it minimized the risk, and if it did work, it was a big savings.

The steering angle sensor snaps into the clock spring so there isn't a need to purchase both.

My scanner showed a zero angle too until I replaced the sensor.

 

[Fibber2]

While clock spring assemblies can fail (they die a horrible death during steering rack or steering intermediate shaft replacement in the hands of the careless!), I don't see a clear reason why a passive device would be impacted by a battery issue. Active components, however, are more sensitive to damage by voltage bounce or lack of a solid reference during a jump start or attempt to charge. So I'm leaning towards a bad steering angle sensor rather than a clock spring.

 

[47pilot]

I am having the same issue and the dealer is stating a recalibration must be done after the sensor is installed. Did you do that on your install? I didn’t see that in your PDF. Thanks for helping and providing good content.

For our 2016 Rav4, there was an instance where my wife left keys in the ignition ON position and drained the battery. The car was jumped started, the AWD and VSC lights remained ON.

Basic code readers from Autozone or O'Reilly's are not able to read the code. The Rav4 has several computers or "modules" for different functions of the car. Very basic code readers only read the engine and emission module. A more advanced code reader is required to read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. I purchased an Autel MK808BT which has far more capabilities than required for this job. I like this scanner because it has bi-directional features - it can bleed the ABS module, do programming for the TPS sensors, plus other functions. The important thing is to find a scanner that can read the ABS/AWD/VSC module. The key indication the steering angle sensor is bad is a U0126 Steering Angle Sensor Lost Communication.

I purchased a replacement steering angle sensor from ebay for about $90. Part number 89245-12040.

Attached are step-by-step instructions on how to do the replacement. It was pretty easy to do. Just take your time and don't pry too hard on any of the connections. Other posts mentioned a steering angle sensor replacement at the dealer costs more than $1000. Most backyard mechanics should be able to do this repair.

By the nature of the instructions, you'll also see how to remove the steering wheel air bag and the clock spring.

 

[pdqtimetrialer]

I did not have to do a recalibration. Just make sure the steering wheel is centered and wheels straight when you take off the old one.