Power steering warning light on a vehicle dashboard is a vital sign. When it comes on, it means there is a problem with power steering assist system that requires instant attention.
Ignoring the steering warning light may mean you could experience tough and dangerous driving conditions. Here is a complete guide for how to fix power steering warning light related issues.
Article Summary
What is A Vehicle Power Steering?
Power steering is a feature that makes it easier for drivers to steer their vehicles, particularly at slow speeds. Instead of pushing the wheels over physically, drivers can use the power steering system to generate a lot of turning effort.
This saves their arms from wearing out too much. The overall result remains similar whether it’s hydraulic or electric power, which depends on pastimes and car models.
Traditional power steering systems use a hydraulic pump that moves power steering fluid into a specific area of the steering system. When the steering wheel is turned with the engine on, one of these areas is filled, which assists in your ability to steer the vehicle.
Electric Power Steering (EPS), on the contrary, is a newer technology that uses an electric motor to help with steering. When you turn the steering wheel, the EPS control unit detects input from you and provides a corresponding level of assistance.
An additional advantage of EPS is its efficiency: it uses power only when the steering wheel turns, not at any other time, and if there is no power steering fluid which neither kind of (hydraulic) power assisted steering requires it means there will never be any leakage.
Sign of The Power Steering Warning Light
The power steering warning light is usually represented by a steering wheel icon with an exclamation mark on your dashboard, or simply the letters “PS” showing.
This signals implies a problem in the power steering system, which can be hydraulic or electric.
Causes of The Power Steering Warning Light
The power steering warning light can come on for several different reasons. A low level of power steering fluid is a common reason, which can result from a leak or other issue in the power steering system. Besides, other causes are.
Electrical Power Steering (EPS) Faults
Nowadays, many cars have power steering that relies on electricity. So if the EPS system is damaged in any way at all, even with this vehicle as yet operable by its original car parts from Germany or elsewhere down south of there, the trouble light could come on.
Power Steering Pump Issues
The power steering warning light may come on if a power steering pump fails to deliver appropriately during operation.
Steering Rack & Pinion Problems
Steering rack trouble, such as leaks or mechanical damage, could also be reason number one for the lights’ cautions.
Low Power Steering Fluid
On vehicles with hydraulic power steering systems, a warning light may be triggered either by fluid volumes dropping below a certain level or by temperatures being too high.
This can happen even if you only drive for a short distance after the Battery Vapor Accumulation Warning. Disconnected hoses and fittings that leak liquid but prevent inflow are also fumes explosion sources.
Electric fault
If there is a loose connection or fault in one of the power steering system wires, the warning light will activate.
Software Problems
Modern cars’ electronic power steering systems are controlled using software. Therefore, faults or electrical failures within the software can cause the power steering warning light to come on.
How To Fix Power Steering Warning Light
There are few ways to fix the power steering warning light. After facing the above problems you should fix the warning light immediately.
Check The Steering Power Fluid Level
- Remove the car’s hood and discover the power steering fluid in its reservoir.
- Attend to where the reservoir cap fits into the dipstick and check the fluid level.
- If the level is low, top it up with the appropriate fluid for your car’s make, as specified in the owner’s manual.
- If the fluid level is too low, you must check for leaks or a more significant issue.
Check the Power Steering Pump
Listen for unusual sounds from the power steer pump, such as a whining or grinding noise. Look for leaks or damage to the pump as you view it visually. If the pump is damaged and fails to work, you should consider having it repaired or replaced by a mechanic.
Check the Steering Rack
Examine the steering rack for visible leaks or damage. If you spot a problem, it’s best to have a professional mechanic look it over and make the necessary repairs.
Examine the Electrical Components (for EPS Systems)
Vehicles are equipped with electric power steering, so check the wiring and connectors for the EPS system. Look for loose, corroded, or damaged connectors and alter or renew them as required.
Use an OBD-II Scanner
- If you have one, connect your vehicle’s diagnostic port to an OBD-II scanner.
- The process for scanning these error codes is hitting the button on the device; learning what it doesn’t is up to you.
- After finishing any repairs made in response to an error code, you must clear them from the car’s computer system before determining if any relevant light has gone off.
Seek Professional Help
Even if there seems to be a fix you need and things are really as expected, take care of your vehicle before things get worse.
Presenting problems that require skills, like using the right tools or experience on site if one is going wrong with their power steering system, is best left to the experts.
Is It Risky To Drive With Power Steering Warning Light On?
With the power steering light on, driving is still possible but could be significantly more difficult. Higher steering effort will be required from the driver when accompanied by a complete loss of power steering.
Driving without power steering can be dangerous if you are not used to it because the car will be much harder to steer and turn.
It is best only to operate the vehicle once you have solved the problem. Otherwise, the risk of an accident will be much higher without power steering.
Maintenance Tips To Avoid Power Steering Warning Light
Regularly Check Fluid Levels: Check power steering fluid levels when performing regular maintenance and top off if necessary.
Inspect for Leaks: Periodically look out for leaks in the power steering assist system and check faults.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Service Schedule: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for your vehicle’s power steering system.
Avoid overloading the steering: Do not hold the steering wheel at maximum lock for short periods, as it puts excessive strain on the power steering pump.
FAQs
Can I Drive With The Power Steering Warning Light On?
No, driving like this is dangerous, and you should not allow the steering to stay in such a condition. The warning light indicates a problem with your power assist steering, and that makes control for the driver difficult, even unsafe under some circumstances. If you have no other choice, drive short distances (for example, to get the car into a repair shop with power steering assist) and do so carefully.
What Causes The Power Steering Warning Light To Come On?
The power steering warning light can come on for several reasons. The power steering fluid may be too low, there may be a problem with the electric power steering system itself, the power steering pump has failed you, or a bad steering rack; there are electrical faults such as cracked wiring or connectors inside your power steering system that need to be addressed.
How To Power Steering Warning Light Signals?
To prevent the power steering warning light from showing, first check the level of the power steering fluid, topping it up if necessary. Next, inspect the power steering pump and the steering rack for any signs of damage or leaks. As far as electric systems are concerned, check out any bad wiring or signals. If the problem persists, you should diagnose and repair it thoroughly with a professional mechanic.
How Quickly You Should Fix Power Steering Warning Light?
It is highly urgent to fix the power steering warning light once it appears on your dash. Addressing the issue quickly keeps your car secure and gets repairs done before they turn into something more expensive. Do not ignore the warning; repairs will only be more costly but not life dangerous for you.
Final Words
The power steering warning light illuminates when there is a problem with your steering system. When you pay immediate attention (to such issues), your car’s handling is safe and smooth once more.
Whether it’s just adding some more hydraulic fluid or some other types of service are necessary, getting it all back in line and ensuring everything works right helps keep your car ready for another trip down the road.
Some practical advice for drivers who know how to handle a wrench. Diagnose and fix the power steering warning light. Then you can enjoy driving your car in safety as well as performance.
