Speed Sensitive Power Steering (SSPS) - Adjustable?

[firstorbit84]

Does that mean the RS has a different module?

Could I just buy a power steering control module from an RS?

 

[laborsmith]

No, that means Chevy wants to sell a RS to you.

I doubt the RS has a separate module but it might.

Now that the question is raised, one of our members with access to Chevy info might research to see if there are different part numbers.


Laborsmith

 

[firstorbit84]

I thought theenico said it wasn't at some point

 

[Opticon]

I would like to see a list of Vehicle Configuration variables for the Sonic. We know they can change things like speedometer ratio and add options like cruise control and fog lights... but what else can be changed through a flash?

 

[theenico]

The service module is probably the same P/N. Service modules usually come blank and are flashed after installation. If your VIN says you don't have an RS, you won't get the RS software/flash.

 

[Opticon]

Won't or can't? Can who you know have an affect?

 

[Eric Smit]

if you flash it with an RS vin, will it still function?


-Eric Smit

 

[theenico]

You can't do that unless you install the blank module in an RS, flash it, and then move it to your car. That may not work either because of the immobilizer and other systems that "shake hands" when you start the car.

Here's why. The GM diagnostic computers check the VIN when they're hooked to a car. That it is determines which software it allows the technician to flash. There is no way to skirt this process at the dealer.

The only chance of making this happen is for the aftermarket to step in, but since it's steering related, I doubt they will.

 

[laborsmith]

I was afraid that ^ would be the case.

There are so many complaints about the twitchy power steering, it seems to me Chevy would offer the RS power steering flash to custo9mers who desire it.


Laborsmith

 

[$ub$onic]

I'm sure if you pay enough they would do it

 

[firstorbit84]

@enico why would an aftermarket supplier not want to mess with the ssps?

We may have to get out the oscilloscope and make a custom tuning box for the power steering

 

[Eric Smit]

in case it fails and you crash into a tree "because the aftermarket power steering unit failed." liability.


-Eric Smit

 

[firstorbit84]

Hogwash! Can't they make disclaimers?

 

[theenico]

In court, disclaimers are about as good as wet noodles. They just don't stand up.

One way to get GM to address the dartiness of the stock steering, is to flood the NHTSA website with complaints that it makes you feel unsafe or that it may cause you to have an accident.

 

[firstorbit84]

I don't even know if I'd call the stock steering darty. I think it is just numb and unpredictable. I want more feedback and less (but consistent) assist

 

[laborsmith]

I don't even know if I'd call the stock steering darty. I think it is just numb and unpredictable. I want more feedback and less (but consistent) assist

What you call numb and unpredictable (I too would use those terms) I also call darty.

Perhaps you could test drive an RS Sonic; I find the RS algorithm resolves the numb, unpredictable and darty sensation, but you may not.

As I said when this thread began, perhaps Chevrolet will allow their dealers to reflash the regular Sonic power steering control module with the version used by the RS Sonic. For the reason stated above (liability) I do not foresee an aftermarket fix. I see the after market providing ways to disable ABS and TPMS (other than a DIY fuse pull/on-off switch) more viable and just as likely.


Laborsmith

 

[firstorbit84]

Yeah if I find some time I will do that. There are 9 RS within 50 miles according to auto trader, but only one is a manual and its over 30 miles away.

I will probably take out an automatic that is closer just to feel the difference in steering. (with my luck, and automotive add, they'll probably talk me into trading up)

I really think GM making an official ssps software update/option is our best shot. Or if ubryaj finally gets ahold of his friend and makes progress.... Or if someone buys the super expensive dealer software to mess with it.... Or maybe they can make it part of the b-spec package?

 

[firstorbit84]

Ubryaj, ever make it to the dealer?

 

[firstorbit84]

Buuuump

 

[Machine]

I have been trying to update my 12 LT to the RS calibration.

I checked with parts, and the Power steering control module (which is pretty much the whole steering column) is the same part number for RS vs non-RS.

I tried recalibrating mine about 4-5 months ago with no luck. I did use my VIN, but built the vehicle (as in selecting year and such) as a 13, but showed no option for a RS calibration. THe only calibration Available was the one I already had. I will try again here soon and let you know. I probably need to manually enter a RS VIN number into the GM program to get a RS calibration option.

Anybody want to send me their RS VIN number to try??? PM me.

now, whether or not a dealer will change it for you is another story.