The AMP Research Power Step is an automatic electric-powered running board that extends from underneath a vehicle’s doorsill when the door is opened and retracts when it is closed. The purpose of this device is to make it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle, especially for those with limited mobility.
It is a popular add-on for trucks and SUVs, but like any mechanical component, it can encounter issues.
In this article, we’ll discuss the common problems that can arise with the AMP Research Power Step and how to troubleshoot them. But before we dive into it, consider expanding your knowledge and making the right choice when opting for buying a used car engine.
Common Issues
Here are some of the most common issues that owners of AMP Research Power Steps may encounter:
- Power Steps Not Deploying: One of the most common issues with the AMP Research Power Steps is that they may fail to deploy. This may be due to a problem with the electrical connection, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning control module.
- Power Steps Not Retracting: Another issue that owners of AMP Research Power Steps may encounter is that the steps may fail to retract properly. This could be due to a problem with the linkage, a malfunctioning motor, or a broken gear.
- Power Steps Making Strange Noises: If your Power Steps are making unusual sounds, it could be a sign that something is wrong. The noise could be caused by a faulty motor, damaged linkage, or worn-out components.
- Power Steps Sticking: Over time, debris and dirt can build up on the steps, causing them to stick or bind. This could cause the steps to deploy or retract unevenly, making it difficult to get in or out of the vehicle.
- Power Steps Not Responding to Remote Control: If the steps don’t respond to the remote control, it could be due to a problem with the control module, wiring, or the remote control itself.
- Power Steps Getting Stuck: If the power steps get stuck in the deployed or retracted position, it could be due to a mechanical issue or a problem with the control module.
- Power Steps Not Working in Cold Weather: In some cases, Power Steps may not work properly in cold weather. This could be due to issues with the motor or the control module.
- Power Steps Getting Damaged: If the power steps get hit by debris or other objects while driving, they can get damaged or broken. This could cause them to malfunction or stop working altogether.
- Power Steps Not Leveling: If the power steps are not leveling properly, it could be due to a problem with the linkage, motor, or control module.
- Power Steps Not Working After Installation: If the power steps are not working after installation, it could be due to a faulty component or a problem with the installation itself.
Understanding these common issues can help you troubleshoot and resolve problems with your AMP Research Power Steps. If you’re unsure about how to diagnose or fix an issue, it’s best to seek the help of a qualified mechanic or technician.
Also, something to keep in mind is that you should always have the recommended tire pressure on your car as it can be dangerous to drive a vehicle that has underinflated or overinflated tires.
Power Step Troubleshooting
Problem 1
Power steps from AMP Research start to get excessively loud.
The AMP Research power steps frequently begin to emit annoying noises when in use. Oftentimes, too much dirt, muck, or even salt may build up and cause this.
In cases of severe weather, these substances become caught inside the running board’s mechanism. This results in some unwanted noises.
Solution
- Deploy the running boards manually in this scenario. The next step should be a powerful pressure wash.
- Clean the front and back hinges of the accumulated dirt. Remember that motors shouldn’t be submerged in water. This may harm you severely.
- Once you are done spraying water, opt for a silicone lubricant to clean the space.
- Make sure that you do not apply any type of protestants, silicone, or wax directly on the surface of the steps, as this can resist friction and create slippery surfaces.
Problem 2
Sporadic operation and Irregular breaks
When the connector between the wire harness and controller makes sporadic contact, this occurs. The white rubber connector and terminals are typically positioned incorrectly as the cause of this.
Solution
Simply check all the wires, one by one, by drawing each one out. If you observe the wire pulling out of the rubber connector, fix it by reinserting it.
Problem 3
Steps stop functioning midway.
In some cases, the vehicle’s body is not straight. This can eventually confine the power steps.
Solution
In this case, you must simply insert the steps in a downward position after opening the vehicle’s door. Under the stage, there are two 3/16′′ socket head bolts. This enables an easier and stronger hold on the linkage’s degree.
You are supposed to unscrew all the bolts present there. Then, move on to removing the power steps from the link. Just click the bottom of the step, and you will be done with it.
However, keep in mind that a soft face mallet is required to remove it. To align the connections correctly, separate the step from the linkage. Now, all you have to do is detach the socket head bolts that are present in the front or backlink.
The next step is to place the power steps in an upward position. You can re-install it on the linkage and tighten the 3/16″ socket bolts. This procedure will ensure correct alignment and eliminate the binding. Now, your AMP Research power steps should no longer pause halfway.
Problem 4
Incorrect position of steps when the door is shut.
At times, the steps deploy, resulting in incorrect positioning. This is due to the shutting doors or even the car’s hood. Furthermore, this problem can be observed in cars that are highly equipped with shock sensor security systems.
Solution
This is a very common issue. Fortunately, it has a very simple solution. You have to change the settings of the shock sensor. If you reduce the sensitivity, the issue will be resolved.
Problem 5
Steps start to function arbitrarily.
Diodes with improper polarity connections are the cause of this issue. Moreover, it may also occur if their polarities are reversed or if their connection is shoddy and unsecure.
Solution
First and foremost, detect the vehicle’s electrical system. Double-check that all the wires are properly connected and also check if you have a strong battery functioning correctly.
Problem 6
AMP Research power steps start to shake.
This is a rather simple issue that is not caused due to any internal malfunctions. The main problem might be extremely rough ground.
Solution
As soon as you touch the flat ground, this issue is solved. It is advisable to verify whether or not your connections are secure, nevertheless.
Problem 7
You can only plug AMP Research power steps into the OBD2 port.
The AMP Research power steps plug into the OBD2 port. It can cause concerns at times because you cannot plug in any other devices, such as a tuner.
Solution
To solve this issue, Amp’s research came out with a convenient splitter. This enables the user to plug in more than one thing at a time. So, now you can plug your steps into the OBD2 port along with any other devices as per your requirement.
FAQs
The Step only Goes up (down) Halfway and Stops. How Can I Fix It?
The body of certain vehicles is often not straight and can put the steps in a bind. Open the door and put the step in the down position. On the underside of the step, you will find two 3/16” socket head bolts (Allen bolts) that hold the step to the linkage.
Remove these two bolts and dislodge the step from the linkage by tapping on the bottom of the step with a soft face mallet as if you were going to remove the step. It is important that the step is totally separated from the linkage. Failure to do so will not allow the linkages to properly align.
You only need to remove the Allen bolts from the front or the rear linkage. Both are not necessary. Next put the step in the up position and reinstall the step on the linkage and reinstall the 3/16” Allen bolts and tighten. This will align the linkages and eliminate the binding that is causing the step to stop halfway up
The Wire Colors on My Vehicle Do Not Match the Colors in Your Diagram. What Do I Do?
Unfortunately, vehicle manufacturers frequently change the color of the wires in their wiring harnesses. The wire that we need to locate is the factory door-ajar signal located inside each door. You can find this circuit by removing the door panel and physically tracing the wires leading to the door latch/switch. Once you have located the bundle of wires that go to the switch you will need to isolate the door-ajar circuit. This circuit will be a “negative switching” circuit.
Negative switching indicates that the circuit will be in a “ ground “ state where the circuit is connected to the minus or negative side of the battery with the door open (Except 02 – 03 Ford Super Duty and 08 Ford Super Duty where the circuit is closed to ground with the door shut).
With the door closed the circuit will sometimes show a very small amount of current or nothing at all. The best and safest way to isolate this wire is to use a computer-safe circuit tester like the CTS24 Circuit Tester by Blue Point available from Snap-On Tools. There are other manufacturers of similar testers.
The important thing about this kind of tester is that it is specifically designed to be “computer and airbag safe”. This means the tester will not damage sensitive electrical systems.
How Do You Reset a Power Running Board?
Resetting a power running board, such as the AMP Research Power Step, is a relatively easy process that can help fix any issues you may be experiencing with the system. Here are the steps to reset the power running board:
- Turn off the vehicle’s ignition and remove the key from the ignition switch.
- Locate the power running board controller module. This is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
- Locate the reset button on the controller module. This is a small button usually located on the side of the module.
- Press and hold the reset button for approximately five seconds.
- Release the reset button and wait for the controller module to reset itself. This may take a few seconds.
- Turn the vehicle’s ignition back on and test the power running board to see if the reset fixed the issue.
If the reset does not fix the issue, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance from an authorized AMP Research dealer or technician.
How Do Power Running Boards Work?
Power running boards are a convenient way to get in and out of your vehicle. When a door is opened, the running boards automatically extend outward, providing a lower step than standard running boards. Once you’ve stepped up, the running boards will retract automatically when the door is closed.
The running boards are powered by a small motor and can be adjusted to work more quickly or slowly, depending on the user’s preference.
Final Thoughts
Power steps made by AMP Research are well renowned for serving as practical ladders. Frequently, small problems with the steps might cause them to malfunction.
Therefore, it is important to stay updated and understand the causes beforehand. We suggest you keep your power steps dry and clean at all times. This will help in avoiding slippery surfaces.