Universal Adaptable Electric Power Steering Kit: The Complete Guide for Vintage Cars

Your classic vehicle is not included in our range of custom kits? That's where the universal adaptable electric power steering kit comes in. Designed to be installed on a wide variety of vintage vehicles, it allows you to regain a light and precise steering wheel without altering the original mechanics. Here is everything you need to know before equipping yourself.

What is a universal adaptable power steering kit?

Unlike a kit designed for a specific model (Porsche 911, Citroën 2CV, Aston Martin DB5...), the universal kit is not pre-calibrated for a specific vehicle. It consists of an autonomous system — electric motor, torque sensor, electronic control unit (ECU), and wiring harness — that is directly placed on the steering column, at the most suitable location for your vehicle's configuration.

This solution is primarily aimed at owners of rare models, military vehicles, 4x4s, vintage trucks, or cars that are not yet included in our catalog of over 180 specific kits. It offers a reduction in steering effort of 5 to 10 times the applied load, providing a level of comfort similar to modern power steering systems.

Discover the full range on our page Universal Adaptable Electric Power Steering Kit.

The 4 Families of EZ Power Steering Universal Kits

Not all vehicles exert the same load on their steering system. That's why the universal kit comes in four power options, to be chosen based on your vehicle's weight and usage:

• Light vehicles (such as 2CV, 4L, Méhari): suitable power for light loads, around 150 W
• Classic vehicles (sedans, coupes, convertibles): the most common format, typically around 250 W — see the Medium Adaptable Kit
• Heavy vehicles (4x4s, trucks, military vehicles): up to 350 W to compensate for naturally harder steering — see the universal kit for large vehicles
• Vehicles limited to less than 45 km/h: a specific calibration profile for equipment and small utility vehicles

Each kit is also available with the motor positioned on the left or right depending on the available space in your vehicle cabin, and in a waterproof version if the installation needs to be done in the engine compartment rather than under the dashboard.

How Does the Assistance Work?

Similar to our custom kits, the universal assistance is based on the principle of load sensitivity: the greater the effort on the steering wheel (typically at low speeds, during parking), the more the torque sensor detects a high twist, and the more the ECU delivers power to the electric motor. At higher speeds, the twist decreases, and the assistance naturally reduces to maintain firm and precise steering.

The power consumption remains very controlled: 5 to 7 amperes on average, only during maneuvers, compared to a hydraulic pump that continuously engages the engine, even when driving straight.

Installation: What Sets the Universal Kit Apart from the Custom Kit

This is the key point to know before ordering. Unlike our model-specific kits — of which 90% can be installed without welding or cutting, by reusing the original mounting points — the universal kit requires more extensive mechanical intervention:

• Cutting of the steering column at the chosen location to integrate the motor
• Welding to attach the supplied sleeves to the size of your column
• Mechanical and welding skills are required, or the intervention of a professional
• Estimated assembly time between 6 and 10 hours, depending on the accessibility of the column on your vehicle
• Comes complete with ECU, controller, and detailed assembly instructions

This technical counterpart is the price of flexibility: the universal kit can literally adapt to hundreds of different models, whereas a custom kit is unique to a vehicle.

A Reversible and Secure Installation

Despite the column cutting, the installation remains reversible on most vehicles thanks to the connection sleeves. In case of electrical failure, the system simply reverts to unassisted steering, without putting the driver at risk — just like our specific kits.

Our universal kits are manufactured in the Netherlands, like the entire EZ Power Steering range, with over 3,000 units produced each year.

Universal Kit or Custom Kit: Which One to Choose?

Our advice: always check first if your vehicle is listed in our custom kit catalog, by brand or by model. The universal kit remains the best solution when your vehicle is not listed, or for older 4x4s and utility vehicles that are not covered by the standard ranges.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Universal Power Steering Kit

Is the universal kit suitable for all vehicles?

Yes, that's precisely its purpose: it is designed to adapt to a wide range of models, including 4x4s, trucks, and military vehicles, thanks to its four power variations.

Do you need special skills to install it?

Yes. The assembly involves cutting and welding of the steering column, which requires good mechanical and welding skills, or the intervention of an automotive professional.

Does the universal kit damage my classic car?

The original column must be cut to integrate the kit, but the assembly is reversible on most vehicles thanks to the provided connection sleeves.

Which power level should I choose for my vehicle?

It depends on the weight and usage: light (2CV, 4L, Méhari), standard (sedans, coupes, convertibles), heavy (4x4, truck), or vehicles limited to 45 km/h. Our team can advise you based on your model.

Can the universal kit be used on the road and in competition?

Yes, it can be used for road use (subject to insurance) as well as in competition (rally, historic rally, drift). Contact us for any questions regarding specific approvals for your vehicle.

Whether your vehicle is an exception, an old 4x4, or a rare model, an adaptable universal electric power steering kit can give it a light and modern steering wheel, without ever compromising its authenticity.

Discover the range of adaptable universal kits or request a free quote to be advised on the kit best suited for your vehicle.