Power steering: more responsive, less stiff in reverse?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by GaryHere, Mar 7, 2015.

  1. GaryHere

    GaryHere Member

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    Been noticing this more and more (didnt really pay attention since I dont use reverse that much -- really) but it seems that in reverse the power steering moves more freely and responds better than in drive.....

    is there any reason for this if it indeed is better in reverse?

    has anyone noticed it?

    My wife says she doesnt know what Im talking about, she feels no change :(
     
    #1 GaryHere, Mar 7, 2015
  2. situationalawareness

    situationalawareness Member

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    The only reason you'd feel any difference at all is because when backing up, your front steering wheels are trailing instead of fighting a forward thrust directly onto it like when going forward.
     
    #2 situationalawareness, Mar 7, 2015
  3. Easy Rider 2

    Easy Rider 2 Senior Member

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    Cars that have variable ratio power steering often work like that as they go to max. assist in reverse.
    Don't know which, if any, Prii are supposed to work like that though.
     
    #3 Easy Rider 2, Mar 7, 2015
  4. css28

    css28 Senior Member

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    It's a function of the caster and the generally less stable dynamics of steering while going backward.
    I've noticed this in my other cars too (including some without power steering).
     
    #4 css28, Mar 7, 2015
    GrGramps likes this.
  5. David Beale

    David Beale Senior Member

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    Also, while in reverse you are only using electric power, limited to approx. 40 HP peak, though the available torque is pretty high.
     
    #5 David Beale, Mar 7, 2015
  6. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    never noticed it myself, but i only reverse to leave my driveway and parking spots typically.
     
    #6 bisco, Mar 7, 2015
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