Raven01750

So, apparently I am supposed to be doing a Zero Point Calibration after each wheel alignment. Aren't TSB's wonderful. 🥴
I ordered a new (old) Techstream S/W Version 10.30.029 today with I'm assuming an interface cable using V1.4.0 hoping it works for my 2002. If not, I'll order the V2.0.4 cable next since I have a three year alignment package, I have an alignment done every time I rotate my tires. Guess I'll learn Techstream one way or the other.
Paul

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

I don't think that is what they mean. I have never heard of anyone doing that after a routine alignment. I have never had it suggested by independents or dealerships either.

Raven01750

LOL. I hadn't either. But I don't know how else to interpret that particular TSB.
Paul

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

I did a little research but I'm with you. I don't know how to interpret that either. The little I could find made it sound more like something that gets done to re-calibrate sensors after a collision. I don't think it should be done routinely after an alignment.

Raven01750

Well, my ignorance of how and what the Calibration actually accomplishes is where my problem lies. I'm certain if you had new control arms and shocks mounted etc., that would be deemed reason enough. But minor alignments just done on a routine basis seems overkill I agree. If you have Techstream, the Calibration probably only takes moments. But taking it to the dealer after you leave the tire shop for normal rotation, balance and alignment? Not going to happen.
Paul

VVTiBob

While our SCs don’t have all the latest wiz bang technologies described in the linked article below, we do have some of them. That’s why zero point calibration is important, especially under certain circumstances..... and I’ll add, easy to do. Level ground, steering wheel straight ahead, then follow the reset/set procedure.
https://www.toyotapartsandservice.co...nt-calibration

DshngDaryl

Toyota recommends a ZPC after MANY things. The key is for the car to know at what point the wheels are facing forward.

If your car was badly out of alignment or the steering wheel was off, getting a new ZPC reference point makes total sense.

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

Makes no sense. I had my steering wheel off to replace the spiral cable and had no issues with a Zero Point Calibration. I think we are reading way too much into this.

DshngDaryl

https://www.toyotapartsandservice.co...nt-calibration

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

OK does our car have a "Millimeter Wave Radar Sensor"? If so, I have never heard of it.

VVTiBob

No our cars don’t have Millimeter Wave Radar Sensor. That’s used with active cruise control, which btw is pretty cool. I used it in a 2017 I drive from time to time. We do have yaw rate sensors, wheel speed sensors, and a few others.

Raven01750

LOL. Stop while your ahead!

Paul

iolmaster

iTrader: (1)

No fun in that!

DshngDaryl

Nope, no Millimeter wave sensors, but the article is still relevant

"Early on, vehicle safety technology may have required some simple steering angle sensor calibrations, but with the evolution of modern safety systems, more involved calibrations have become necessary to be sure all of the safety systems are working properly and as designed. The days of “set the toe and let it go” are long gone, and ignoring details like required calibrations after wheel alignment have the potential for causing safety system malfunctions because of out-of-spec parameters.

ALIGNMENT AND CALIBRATION

The proper procedures for zero-point calibration after wheel alignment, sensor alignment and calibration procedures can be found in vehicle-specific repair manuals on the Technical Information System (TIS). Sensor alignment and calibration requirements will be listed in multiple locations, and zero-point calibration procedures can be found in the Wheel Alignment Procedures section. A Techstream and Reflector Special Service Tools (SSTs) are required to clear data and perform calibrations.

Depending on the level of technology available in a vehicle, calibration procedures may vary."

I have no idea how much applies to the SC, which is what started this whole discussion. But I do stand by my assertion, that Toyota/Lexus recommends a ZPC for many things.

DshngDaryl

Just to clarify, I did not mean if your steering wheel was removed there was a problem. I meant if your tires are aimed forward but your steering wheel is cockeyed and you get it fixed with an alignment; then there could be a problem.