Is MagnaSteer really adjustable?
 

My 98 LeSabre has MagnaSteer. I assume Bonneviles (can) have it, too.

I have read some posts saying that MagnaSteer can be adjusted for a "tighter" steer, and other posts saying that the adjustable thing is a myth. Which is the truth?

If it can be done, how is it done? Can anyone testify that they've had it done?

(Note that my calls to 6 different local GM dealership service departments all ended with them saying "Magna-what?" Then again, when I told them MagnaSteer variable steering was indicated in my RPO codes, they all said "what is an RPO code?")

Thank you.

i am unsure about the 98, but i know the 2000+ can be adjusted with a Tech 2 scantool at the dealer. somone should chime in shortly to let you know more specifically to a 98

:stupid:

i have never heard anyone haveing the ability to adjust the magnasteer Via the PCM on the 96-99 cars

i dont get it.....

I am pretty sure my '97 FSMs indicate that Magnasteer is adjustable. I will need to go look to see what it says in there. ;)

ok the Book (FSM) does say that its adjustable on the 97 at least......

I thought so. Just need a Tech 2 tool to do it, IIRC.

yuppers....

This is some information from servicing information for my 2000 SSEi

I couldn't find any corresponding information for my daughters '98 Buick Regal GS. The descriptions were slightly different also, with the '98 describing a magnetic rotary coil, while the 2000 speaks of a rotary magnetic solenoid.

He asks me on the phone and posts my confirmation as "book".. you spelled it wrong buddy..it's Boost..not book.

Yes, Magnasteer at least from 97 and up is adjustable with a Tech 2

I figured that's where he got his info from...... :lol:

I'm going to look it up shortly myself just to see if I can find it in the FSM.

That's right. I had the dealer use a Tech 2 to adjust mine to More Firm. It was barely noticeable.

That's interesting Paul.. I wonder where it was to begin with.

I've been able to tell, although age of suspension also plays a factor in how much you can actually feel it.

Starting with '96 was when you could adjust the Magnasteer...my '96 FSM discussed this as well. You do need a Tech 2 and the difference is...uhhhhh, pointless? :lol:

Chris

yes, it should be '96+ with magnasteer that can be adjusted with a tech 2. Like was said, the 3 settings are less firm, stock, more firm. The difference is not a lot at all, but it is a difference. I personally like the more firm setting the best, it just makes the suspension feel "tighter" i guess is the best way to describe it.

Thanks all.

I just got my 98 H-body FSM set and it does say that MagnaSteer is adjustable. Funny, it doesn't specify a "Tech 2 scantool", just a "scantool."

In any case, if I could get a dealer to do this for me with a Tech 2, what do you suppose it would cost me?

The reason it says scan tool is because that is the FSM GM produces for dealerships. Therefore the scan tool is assumed to be their Tech II.

On the cost, it's tough to say. Any time a Tech II is hooked up there's probably a charge and then 1 hour of labor from the tech.

It was originally set at normal. When it was first done, ya I could detect a bit tighter feel but it's been so long I've forgotten.

They charged me an hour $75. to do the case learn, change this setting and program names for Driver 1 and Driver 2.
So depending on whether it's me or my wife it will display either SilverBullet or Laura on the DIC. ;)