Find HS Code and trade information for steering wheel booster

Steering Wheel Booster

A steering wheel booster, also known as a steering assist device or power steering assist, is a mechanical or electronic system designed to reduce the effort required to steer a vehicle. It facilitates easier and more comfortable vehicle control, particularly at low speeds or during maneuvering.

Materials

Steering wheel boosters utilize a combination of materials dependent on the specific type:

• Hydraulic Systems: Typically incorporate steel for the pump housing, hydraulic fluid reservoirs, and high-pressure hoses. Seals are often made of rubber or synthetic polymers to prevent fluid leakage.
• Electric Systems: Employ aluminum for the motor housing, copper windings for the electric motor, and steel gears for the reduction mechanism. Electronic control units (ECUs) contain silicon-based microchips and printed circuit boards.
• Mechanical Systems: Primarily utilize steel for gears, linkages, and supporting structures.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a steering wheel booster is to:

• Reduce Steering Effort: Minimize the physical strength needed to turn the steering wheel, especially in heavier vehicles or during parking.
• Enhance Maneuverability: Allow for quicker and easier turning, improving vehicle responsiveness.
• Improve Driver Comfort: Reduce fatigue during long drives or frequent maneuvering.
• Increase Safety: Provide more precise steering control, particularly in emergency situations.

Function

Steering wheel boosters function by supplementing the driver's steering force. The specific mechanism varies depending on the type:

• Hydraulic Boosters: A hydraulic pump, driven by the engine, generates fluid pressure. This pressure assists the steering gear, reducing the force needed to move the steering linkage. The system typically relies on a valve that directs fluid flow based on steering wheel input.
• Electric Boosters: An electric motor provides torque directly to the steering column, assisting the driver's steering effort. The motor's output is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) based on vehicle speed, steering angle, and driver input.
• Mechanical Boosters: Utilize gear ratios to multiply the driver's steering force. These are less common in modern vehicles.

Usage Scenarios

Steering wheel boosters are commonly found in:

• Passenger Vehicles: Standard equipment in most modern cars, trucks, and SUVs.
• Heavy-Duty Vehicles: Essential for maneuvering larger vehicles like buses, trucks, and construction equipment.
• Vehicles with Larger Tires: Provide the necessary assistance to handle the increased steering effort associated with larger tires.
• Vehicles with Off-Road Modifications: Assist in steering through challenging terrain.

Common Types

• Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS): Traditional system utilizing a hydraulic pump, hoses, and a steering gear. Requires regular fluid maintenance.
• Electric Power Steering (EPS): More common in modern vehicles, utilizing an electric motor for assistance. Offers improved fuel efficiency and customizable steering feel. Subtypes include:
  • Column-Assist EPS: Motor is located on the steering column.
  • Rack-and-Pinion Assist EPS: Motor is integrated with the steering rack.
• Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS): Combines hydraulic and electric components, using an electric pump to generate hydraulic pressure.
• Mechanical Steering Assist: Less common, utilizing gear ratios to amplify steering force.

Based on the provided information, the declared goods, “steering wheel booster,” can be classified under the following HS codes:

• 8708.94.10.00: This HS code covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), specifically “Other parts and accessories: Steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes; parts thereof: Steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes: For tractors suitable for agricultural use”. If the steering wheel booster is intended for use on agricultural tractors, this code applies. The tax rate details are: Basic tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, and after April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30%. The total tax rate is 55.0%.
• 8708.94.50.00: This HS code also covers parts and accessories of motor vehicles (headings 8701 to 8705), specifically “Other parts and accessories: Steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes; parts thereof: Steering wheels, steering columns and steering boxes: For other vehicles”. If the steering wheel booster is intended for use on vehicles other than agricultural tractors, this code applies. The tax rate details are: Basic tariff: 2.5%, Additional tariff: 25.0%, and after April 2, 2025, the additional tariff increases to 30%. The total tax rate is 57.5%.

Explanation of HS Code Structure:

• 87: Chapter 87 pertains to Vehicles and parts and accessories thereof.
• 08: Heading 08 specifically covers Parts and accessories of motor vehicles.
• 94: Subheading 94 covers Other parts and accessories, including steering wheels, steering columns, and steering boxes.
• 10.00 / 50.00: These further specify the type of vehicle the parts are intended for – agricultural tractors (10.00) or other vehicles (50.00).

It is crucial to determine the intended application of the steering wheel booster to select the correct HS code. If the booster is for agricultural tractors, use 8708.94.10.00; otherwise, use 8708.94.50.00.