Beatrice Lang
Numb steering is a term used to describe the sensation of having little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving. This is a common issue in cars with electric power steering systems, where the connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts operating the wheels are minimised. While some drivers prefer the feel of older hydraulic power steering systems, numb steering is designed to make driving more comfortable, especially on long commutes or bumpy roads.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving |
| Cause | Advancements in the power steering system |
| Common in | Cars with electric power steering systems |
| Also found in | Some hydraulic systems |
| Reason | Minimized connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts that operate the wheels |
| Steering Feel | Loss of "steering feel" or "road feel" |
| Steering Weight | Well-managed by electric power steering |
| Steering Response | Well-managed by electric power steering |
| Customer Preference | Most customers prefer reduced vibration and kickback in the steering |
| Customer Feedback | Some customers prefer the "old connected steering feel" |
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What You'll Learn
Numb steering is a subjective experience
Numb steering refers to the feeling of having little to no feedback from the steering wheel. It is commonly associated with electric power steering (EPS) systems, where the connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts operating the wheels are minimized. The electric power steering does all the work, resulting in a more comfortable driving experience, especially during long commutes or on bumpy roads.
However, some drivers prefer the "'feel'" provided by older hydraulic power steering systems or even manual steering systems. These systems allow for a more direct connection with the wheels, providing drivers with a better sense of how the wheels are reacting to road conditions. This can be particularly important in high-performance cars or when driving on slippery or snowy roads, where a lack of steering feel can impact safety.
The preference for numb steering or a more connected steering feel varies among drivers and driving conditions. Some modern cars, such as Porsches, are known for offering a good balance between comfort and steering feel, while others may prioritize comfort over feel, resulting in a numb steering experience. Ultimately, the subjective nature of numb steering influences car manufacturers' design choices, as they strive to meet the diverse preferences of their customers.
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Electric power steering systems minimise the connection between the steering wheel and the wheels
Numb steering refers to the feeling of having little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving. It is a subjective experience that some drivers do not mind, while others prefer to have this "feel" while driving. This "feel" is the connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, which is minimised in electric power steering systems.
Electric power steering systems, or EPS, use an electric motor to assist the driver in turning the front wheels. This is in contrast to hydraulic power steering systems, which use mechanically pumped high-pressure fluid to achieve the same result. The EPS system is more efficient than hydraulic systems because it only provides assistance when the driver is steering, rather than constantly running a pump. It is also more environmentally friendly since there is no harmful fluid involved that needs to be flushed or drained.
The steering shaft torque sensor in an EPS system determines the steering direction and the amount of assist needed. The sensor is a five-volt dual analog inverse signal device, and the voltages change as the steering wheel is turned. The PSCM (Power Steering Control Module) interprets these voltage changes and combines them with other inputs such as vehicle speed and system temperature to determine the correct amount of current to send to the power steering motor.
The result of an EPS system is that the driver can easily turn the steering wheel under all conditions. This is also the end goal of hydraulic power steering systems, but the electric system minimises the connection between the steering wheel and the wheels in a way that hydraulic systems do not. In a hydraulic power steering system, there is a direct mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels. This means that the driver can feel how the wheels are reacting to the conditions on the road. In an EPS system, this connection is broken, and the steering wheel feels numb or unresponsive.
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Numb steering is caused by advancements in the power steering system
Numb steering, or having little to no feedback from the steering wheel, is often caused by advancements in power steering systems. Power steering is designed to reduce the driver's effort in turning the steering wheel by using a power source to assist in steering. Advancements in power steering technology have led to the development of electric power steering systems, which use electric motors to provide assistance instead of hydraulic systems.
Electric power steering systems, such as those found in modern vehicles, rely completely on electronics to assist with steering. This differs from older hydraulic power steering systems, which had a more mechanical feel and provided a more direct connection between the steering wheel and the wheels. The electronic nature of modern power steering systems can minimize the connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts operating the wheels, resulting in a numb or unresponsive steering feel.
The first electric power steering system for mass-produced passenger cars was introduced in the Suzuki Cervo in 1988. However, due to the unnatural steering feel at slower and faster speeds, it was not widely adopted by automakers initially. Since then, advancements have been made, and electric power steering has become more common, with many vehicles transitioning to brushless motors in the rack type for their power steering systems.
The numb steering sensation can be attributed to the minimization of mechanical linkages between the steering wheel and the wheels. This is further exemplified by the steer-by-wire system introduced by Lexus in 2023, which completely eliminates the mechanical linkage. While this advancement improves efficiency and reduces the physical effort required by the driver, it can result in a less direct steering feel compared to older hydraulic systems.
It is important to note that numb steering is not necessarily a problem with the vehicle. It is a subjective experience, and some drivers may not mind the lack of feedback while others may prefer a more connected steering feel. The advancements in power steering systems have improved ride comfort, handling, and driver assistance features, but they have also altered the steering feel that some drivers are accustomed to.
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Numb steering is more common in modern cars
Numb steering, which is more common in modern cars, is a subjective experience that some drivers do not mind, while others prefer to have it while driving. It refers to having little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving. The steering feel is almost non-existent, and it feels like there is almost no connection to what the wheels are feeling on the road.
In most cases, the advancement in the power steering system causes the steering to feel unresponsive or numb. This is common in cars with electric power steering systems, but some hydraulic systems may also feel numb. Electric power steering systems minimize the connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts operating the wheels. The electric power steering does all the work, so you don't have to put in much effort while steering.
On the other hand, older power steering systems and manual steering systems allow the steering wheel to have a more direct connection with the wheels, making it easier to feel how the wheels react to road conditions. However, numb steering can make driving more comfortable, especially during long commutes or on bumpy roads, as drivers don't have to make constant micro-adjustments.
Modern cars with electric power steering systems, such as the 2019 Volvo, are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. While some drivers may prefer the "feel" of the road that older hydraulic systems provide, most consumers don't seem to care too much about steering feel. As a result, manufacturers may prioritize other factors, such as economy, when designing modern cars, leading to numb steering becoming more common.
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Some drivers prefer numb steering
Numb steering, a common feature of cars with electric power steering systems, refers to the feeling of having little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving. This is because the connections between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts operating the wheels have been minimised.
Additionally, most roads are in poor condition, and the feedback from the steering wheel can be uncomfortable and tiresome on bumpy roads. In such cases, numb steering is preferable as it reduces the need to constantly adjust the steering wheel.
For some drivers, numb steering is also a matter of personal preference. They may find it less distracting, allowing them to focus on other tasks, such as using their smartphones.
While numb steering may be advantageous in certain situations, it is worth noting that it can also be a result of economy-minded engineering. Manufacturers may prioritise cost-effectiveness over steering and suspension design, as most consumers do not place high importance on steering feel.
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Frequently asked questions
Numb steering refers to having little to no feedback from the steering wheel while driving. The steering feel is almost non-existent, and there is little to no connection to what the wheels are feeling on the road.
Electric power steering (EPS) systems rely completely on electronics to assist with steering. This minimises the connection between the steering wheel and the mechanical parts that operate the wheels. As a result, the steering wheel has less "feel" or feedback, which can make the steering feel numb or unresponsive.
Numb steering can make driving more comfortable, especially during long commutes or on bumpy roads, as it reduces the amount of feedback and micro-adjustments required from the driver. It is also preferred by some drivers for city driving or on smooth roads.
Some manufacturers, like Porsche, offer hydraulic steering with an electric motor, which provides better steering feel without sacrificing efficiency. Aftermarket modifications or upgrades to the steering system may also be possible, but these can be costly and may void warranties.
