Power steering problems!

[jazzylady]

Code C1513 for torque sensor malfunction, ECU and sensor has power and feedback signal. Recalibrated. Still intermittently lose power steering. Dealer says to replace rack and computer for $2,500!!!
Any alternative? Why replace all that for a sensor? 2002 Prius, 137,000 miles mostly highway (commute 52 miles one way to Cambridge MA)

[MaggieMay]

Originally Posted by jazzylady

Code C1513 for torque sensor malfunction, ECU and sensor has power and feedback signal. Recalibrated. Still intermittently lose power steering. Dealer says to replace rack and computer for $2,500!!!
Any alternative? Why replace all that for a sensor? 2002 Prius, 137,000 miles mostly highway (commute 52 miles one way to Cambridge MA)

Hi Jazzy - I'm guessing you'll get more responses if you post this in another forum. Like the Gen 1 or 2 Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting forums. Those guys will offer all kinds of help!!

Good Luck!

[tochatihu]

Unfortunately, Toyota designed the system with the sensors deeply buried. Not saying I could have done it better, but combine that with the use of potentiometers that too often become noisy...this story has happened before.

One possible solution is a complete steering assembly from a salvage 2003 Prius, ideally one w/o major front-end damage.

Unfortunately this is not something you can ignore, because steering assist 'dropouts' at low vehicle speeds mean a lot of turning force may be required for maneuvering. Some people (apparently with weak arms?) have described the sterring as 'locked' - almost certainly not true, but startling for sure.

[hyperion]

Originally Posted by jazzylady

Code C1513 for torque sensor malfunction, ECU and sensor has power and feedback signal. Recalibrated. Still intermittently lose power steering. Dealer says to replace rack and computer for $2,500!!!
Any alternative? Why replace all that for a sensor? 2002 Prius, 137,000 miles mostly highway (commute 52 miles one way to Cambridge MA)

I have a new Toyota oem power steerin computer I can sell you for $200 (retail for over $500). email me if interested, wish I could help on the rack also.