Steering Sensor Issue

My 97 Tahoe has recently developed what I would call a "steering sensor" problem. At all different speeds turning or not the power steering will just jump a bit to one side or another. My brother also has a 97 Tahoe and he mentioned he had the same problem and that it was fairly common. I have searched the web and can't really find anything. Any suggestions? Comments? Recommendations?

Thanks a bunch!

this won't be much help, but the steering sensor problem IS widespread, I would think there would be a TSB on this issue???

I just had this issue fixed on my '98. It's a bad EVO switch (varies assist from the power steering based on speed) and should run you around $60 for a new sensor. You'll definitely want to get that repaired though, mine was getting so bad it actually yanked me off the road once when I was taking on of those long, turning highway exits.

I had the same problem in my 1997 Tahoe. I bought a new speed sensitive steering sensor and had my local mechanic install it. Problem solved.

On Right turns only, my steering locks up bad, including clover leafs now, with or without braking (I mention this mostly because it used to happen only when making right hand turns and applying the brakes). I've had pump, EVO sensor and steering shaft all replaced on different visits (all warranted). The only thing that greatly reduced the locking up was when I got a new set of tires, but now it has returned after about ~10K miles of tire wear and is worse than ever. Going back to the dealer tomorrow morning (7/6). Any other thoughts since my EVO sensor has already been replaced? (Is that not the same as the speed sensitive steering sensor? I don't have a Tahoe manual unfortunately!)
2001 Tahoe LT

On Right turns only, my steering locks up bad, including clover leafs now, with or without braking (I mention this mostly because it used to happen only when making right hand turns and applying the brakes). I've had pump, EVO sensor and steering shaft all replaced on different visits (all warranted). The only thing that greatly reduced the locking up was when I got a new set of tires, but now it has returned after about ~10K miles of tire wear and is worse than ever. Going back to the dealer tomorrow morning (7/6). Any other thoughts since my EVO sensor has already been replaced? (Is that not the same as the speed sensitive steering sensor? I don't have a Tahoe manual unfortunately!)
2001 Tahoe LT


It doesn't sound like a sensor problem, more like the steeringbox. I would ask someone at the service department to take it for the weekend and ride around with his family in it. I bet it would get fixed then. Good luck!

I had the same problem on my 99. I think I paid around $60 for the sensor (speed sensitive steering). It is very simple to replace. The sensor is located under the dash on the steering columb near the brake pedal you just remove 1 bolt unplug the sensor and slide it off the shaft, and replace in the reverse order. (total replacement time about 10min) Hope this helps.