DTC C1290: Torque Sensor Signal Error: General Description

EPS (MDPS = Motor Driving Power Steering) ECU receives torque and rotation speed of steering wheel from torque sensor. The EPS ECU uses a torque sensor as it's main input for determining the amount of steering assists. The input and output shafts are separated by a torsion bar, where the torque sensor is located. The sensor consists of a two detecting plates. Detecting plate 1 is fixed to the output shaft, detecting plate 2 is fixed to the input shaft. As torque is applied to the steering column shaft the alignment of the teeth between detecting plate 1 and 2 changes. The EPS ECU recognizes this change.