Steering Failure (EPS) on Dacia Duster Phase 3 (2020-2024) After Battery Voltage Drop

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The Dacia Duster Phase 3 (2020–2024) is known for a common issue related to battery voltage drop, which can cause the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system to lose its internal configuration. This failure leads to several symptoms, including steering malfunction messages and even preventing the vehiclefrom starting.

Symptoms of the Issue

When the battery voltage drops suddenly (weak battery, loose terminal, or battery replacement), thefollowing symptoms may appear:

  • Dashboard message: “Steering Fault” / “EPS Fault”
  • Stiff or blocked steering wheel Red or orange warning lights
  • Vehicle does not start (full immobilization)

These symptoms occur because the EPS module loses its internal configuration when the voltage drops
below a critical leve

Why This Problem Happens

The EPS module on the Duster Phase 3 is extremely sensitive to low voltage. A voltage drop below 10V during startup or a sudden disconnection can:

  1. Corrupt EPS internal parameters
  2. Disable the power steering motor initialization
  3. Block the CAN network, preventing the engine from starting

In short: Low battery voltage = EPS deconfigured = Vehicle won’t start.

Diagnostic Procedure

To confirm the issue:
Check battery voltage:

  • 12.4V engine off
  • 13.8V to 14.4V engine running
  • Read diagnostic faults using a compatible tool:
  • Renolink
  • Renault CLiP
  • Multi-brand scan tools
Common fault codes:
  1. DF280 – DONGLE
  2. DF002 – EPS Circuit
  3. DF002 – Missing or corrupted configuration
Solution: Repairing and Reprogramming the EPS Module

The issue cannot be fixed by simply replacing or charging the battery. You must restore the EPS
configuration.
Recommended Steps:

  • Fully charge the battery or install a new one.
  • Restore proper voltage to the EPS column module.
  • Reprogram or restore the EPS configuration using:
  • Renolink (most common method)
  • Renault CLiP
  • Clear all fault codes.
  • Turn the steering wheel left and right to recalibrate if needed.
  • In most cases, reprogramming the EPS configuration file brings the vehicle back to normal.
Conclusion

The EPS configuration loss on Dacia Duster Phase 3 is a common issue triggered by a simple battery voltage drop. Fortunately, it can be repaired quickly through EPS module reprogramming.
For mechanics and technicians, using Renolink is strongly recommended for fast and effective EPS restoration.

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