Power Steering Warning Light: What It Means and What To Do

When the power steering warning light comes on, your vehicle has detected a fault in the steering assist system—hydraulic or electric. Steering may become heavier, especially at low speeds, and assist can be reduced or disabled. Safely slow down, assess how the wheel feels, and check basics: fluid level for hydraulic systems and battery/charging health for electric systems. If steering becomes very heavy or the light is red, stop driving and seek professional help.

What the Warning Indicates

Modern cars use either hydraulic power steering (HPS), which relies on fluid pressure from a belt-driven pump, or electric power steering (EPS), which uses an electric motor and sensors. The warning may appear as a steering wheel icon, “PS,” or “EPS,” and can be yellow/amber (caution—assist may be limited) or red (critical—assist likely disabled). Regardless of type, the light means the control module has detected a fault. You retain mechanical steering, but effort may rise sharply at low speeds. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are typically stored and can be read with a scan tool.

Immediate Actions to Take

These steps help you quickly judge severity, prevent additional damage, and decide whether it’s safe to continue or best to call for a tow.

• Reduce speed and increase following distance. Test steering effort gently while keeping control.
• Check for other warnings: battery/charging light, overheating, or a broken-belt symptom (loss of A/C, overheating) that could indicate a failed serpentine belt.
• If steering feels abnormally heavy, pull over safely. Avoid tight maneuvers until assessed.
• Hydraulic systems: With engine off and cool, check power steering fluid level and condition; look for wet hoses, a puddle under the car, whining pump noise, or burning fluid smell.
• Electric systems: Look for low voltage signs—dim lights, slow cranking. If safe, switch the car off for 2–3 minutes and restart; a normal voltage reset may restore assist temporarily.
• Avoid holding the steering at full lock; it overheats pumps (HPS) and motors (EPS).
• If steering effort is extreme, there’s a loud belt squeal, smoke, or a major fluid leak, stop and arrange a tow.

If the steering feels normal and only the light is on, drive cautiously to a service location and have the system checked soon; if steering is heavy, treat it as a safety issue and do not continue.

Common Causes

Hydraulic Power Steering (HPS)

Hydraulic systems depend on fluid pressure from a belt-driven pump. These are the typical faults that trigger the warning and reduce assist.

• Low fluid level due to leaks in hoses, pump seals, or steering rack.
• Failing or noisy power steering pump (internal wear or cavitation).
• Broken/slipping serpentine belt or bad belt tensioner (also affects alternator and coolant pump on many vehicles).
• Clogged reservoir screen or faulty pressure/flow control valve.
• Rack-and-pinion internal seal failure causing assist loss and fluid seepage.
• Contaminated or incorrect fluid (some cars require specific PSF or CHF; using the wrong type can damage components).
• Cold-weather viscosity issues if fluid is old or incorrect, causing morning stiffness and warnings.

Addressing leaks promptly prevents pump damage; running an HPS pump low on fluid can quickly lead to failure and metal contamination throughout the system.

Electric Power Steering (EPS)

EPS systems rely on stable electrical power and sensor feedback. These are frequent reasons the EPS light comes on.

• Low battery voltage or charging system fault (weak battery, failing alternator, corroded terminals).
• Post jump-start low-voltage condition; EPS may disable until voltage stabilizes.
• Blown fuse or relay for the EPS motor/module.
• Faulty steering torque sensor or steering angle sensor; calibration issues after alignment or collision repair.
• Motor/controller overheating (e.g., prolonged parking lot maneuvers or holding at full lock).
• Software/firmware fault requiring a module update or reinitialization.
• Wiring damage, water intrusion, or corrosion at connectors/grounds.
• Internal failure of the column- or rack-mounted EPS motor/gear unit.

Because EPS is voltage-sensitive, weak batteries and alternator issues are among the most common—and cheapest—fixes; always verify power and grounds first.

Can You Keep Driving?

If steering feel is normal and the light is amber, you can usually continue cautiously to a repair facility. If the wheel is significantly heavier, treat it as unsafe—parking maneuvers and sudden swerves may be difficult. A red steering warning, major fluid loss, burning smells, belt noise, or simultaneous charging system warnings mean stop driving and arrange a tow. Remember: you don’t lose steering completely, but the increased effort can be dangerous at low speeds or in emergencies.

How Technicians Diagnose It

Shops follow a systematic process to pinpoint the fault efficiently and avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.

1. Scan the power steering/EPS module and engine/transmission modules for stored codes and freeze-frame data.
2. Test battery state of health and alternator output under load; check voltage drop across main grounds.
3. Inspect serpentine belt, tensioner, and pulleys for wear or failure (HPS and charging implications).
4. Check power steering fluid level/condition; pressure test pump and rack; add UV dye to trace leaks (HPS).
5. Evaluate sensor data: steering angle/torque, vehicle speed input; perform steering angle calibration if needed.
6. Verify fuses/relays and inspect EPS wiring/connectors for corrosion or water intrusion.
7. Apply software updates/re-initialization procedures and clear codes; road test to confirm normal operation.

A thorough diagnosis prevents misfires on costly components like racks or EPS columns and often uncovers simple root causes such as low voltage or a loose connector.

Prevention and Maintenance

Routine care reduces the chance of sudden steering warnings and extends component life.

• Use only manufacturer-specified steering fluid; replace or flush at prudent intervals (often 60,000–100,000 miles) for HPS systems, even if labeled “lifetime.”
• Keep the battery healthy and terminals clean; replace aging batteries proactively in EPS-equipped cars.
• Avoid holding the wheel at full lock for more than a few seconds to prevent pump or motor overheating.
• Maintain proper tire pressure and wheel alignment to minimize steering load.
• Protect undercar components from water intrusion and promptly repair torn steering rack boots.

These practices lessen stress on the steering assist system and help avert faults triggered by heat, contamination, or low voltage.

Costs at a Glance

Actual pricing varies by vehicle and region, but typical U.S. ranges: fluid top-off/bleed ($0–$50), hose leak repair ($100–$300), serpentine belt/tensioner ($100–$250), power steering pump ($300–$900), hydraulic rack ($800–$2,000+), battery ($150–$300), alternator ($400–$1,000), EPS sensor or calibration ($150–$500), module reflash ($100–$200), EPS column/rack assembly ($1,200–$2,500+). Early attention usually reduces cost and prevents collateral damage.

When It’s Urgent vs. Not

Treat it as urgent if the light is red, steering is heavy, you hear belt squeal, smell burning fluid, see smoke, or spot a significant fluid leak, or if the charging light is also on. It’s less urgent—but still important—if the light is amber and steering feels normal, especially after a jump-start or in very cold weather; schedule diagnosis soon to avoid an unexpected loss of assist.

Summary

A power steering warning means the car has detected a problem with steering assist. You may still steer, but effort can rise sharply. For hydraulic systems, check fluid, belts, and leaks; for electric systems, verify battery and charging health first. If the light is red or steering is heavy, stop and tow. Prompt, proper diagnosis—starting with system codes and basic power/fluids—prevents bigger repairs and keeps you safe.

Can I add power steering fluid myself?

Yes, you can add power steering fluid yourself by first checking your car’s owner’s manual for the correct type of fluid. Locate the power steering reservoir, clean the cap, and add the specified fluid in small amounts, checking the dipstick or reservoir markings to avoid overfilling. You should also inspect the system for leaks, as low fluid levels often indicate a problem that needs professional attention. 
Steps to Add Power Steering Fluid:

1. Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Identify the manufacturer-recommended power steering fluid for your vehicle, as using the wrong type can damage the system. 
2. Locate the Reservoir: Find the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. It often has a dipstick or markings to indicate the fluid level. 
3. Clean the Area: Wipe the area around the cap to prevent dirt and debris from falling into the reservoir when you open it. 
4. Check the Fluid Level: Use the dipstick or reservoir markings to check the current fluid level. 
5. Add Fluid Slowly: If the level is low, add the recommended fluid in small increments. 
6. Avoid Overfilling: Do not fill the reservoir above the “MAX” or “hot” line, as the fluid expands when the engine heats up. 
7. Recheck and Close: After adding fluid, recheck the level, then replace the cap securely to ensure a tight seal. 

Important Considerations:

• Check for Leaks: A low power steering fluid level can be a sign of a leak. Inspect the pump, lines, and steering rack for any visible signs of fluid leakage. 
• Engine Running or Off?: For simple topping off, the engine can be running if the fluid level is just below the line. If you’ve lost a lot of fluid and the system has air, you’ll need the engine running to bleed the air out. 
• Fluid Condition: If the fluid appears dark or foamy, the system may need to be flushed and refilled by a mechanic. 
• Call a Professional: If you are unsure about any part of the process or discover a leak, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a professional mechanic to have the power steering system inspected. 

Can I drive with the power steering warning light on?

No, it is not safe to drive with the power steering light on, as it indicates a system problem that makes steering more difficult and can compromise safety, especially at higher speeds or during turns. You should pull over to a safe place as soon as possible, check for issues like low fluid in a hydraulic system or consider resetting the system if it has an electric system, and then have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the underlying problem. 
This video explains what the power steering light indicates and the potential steps to resolve the issue: 54sCar ManufacturingYouTube · Apr 10, 2025
Why it’s unsafe

• Heavy Steering: Opens in new tabThe power steering light signifies a lack of assistance from the power steering system, making the steering wheel much harder to turn. 
• Increased Risk of Accidents: Opens in new tabThis difficulty in steering can make it challenging to react to sudden obstacles, perform sharp turns, or control the vehicle, significantly increasing the risk of a collision. 

What to do when the light comes on

1. Pull Over Safely: As soon as it’s safe to do so, find a secure location to stop your vehicle. 
2. Check for Hydraulic Fluid: If your vehicle has a hydraulic system, check the power steering fluid reservoir for the correct fluid level. 
3. Consider an Electric System Reset: If your car has an electric power steering (EPS) system, a simple restart of the vehicle may resolve a temporary electrical malfunction that triggered the light. 
4. Have it Inspected: Even if you top up the fluid or reset the system, it’s crucial to have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose the exact problem, such as a leak, faulty pump, or other electrical issue. 

What to avoid

• Continuing to Drive Normally: Do not continue driving as if nothing is wrong, as this could lead to more severe damage and dangerous driving conditions. 
• Waiting to Get it Fixed: The warning light indicates a safety hazard, so you should seek professional inspection and repair as soon as possible. 

You can watch this video to learn about the potential causes of the power steering warning light and how to address them: 56sCarTechHomeYouTube · Feb 26, 2025

How expensive is it to fix power steering?

Fixing power steering varies widely, but you could spend $10–$20 for just a fluid top-off, while a pump replacement typically costs $500–$900. More involved repairs, like replacing the steering rack, can cost $500 to over $2,200, depending on the vehicle, the parts used (new vs. rebuilt), and whether you do it yourself or use a professional shop. 
Breakdown of Costs

• Fluid Top-Off: Opens in new tabFor issues that are just low on fluid, adding fluid can be a quick and inexpensive fix. 
• Power Steering Flush: Opens in new tabA fluid flush and replacement is another affordable option, costing around $50–$150. 
• Hose Repair: Opens in new tabA leaking hose can be relatively inexpensive, ranging from $60–$150 for the parts and labor, especially if it’s a simpler hose. 
• Power Steering Pump Replacement: Opens in new tabThis is a more significant cost, usually between $500–$900, depending on the vehicle and parts. 
• Steering Rack Replacement: Opens in new tabThis is one of the most expensive power steering repairs, with costs reaching over $2,200 in some cases. 

Factors Influencing Cost

• Vehicle Type: Luxury or large vehicles may have more expensive parts and installation compared to mainstream models. 
• Parts Type: New OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are generally more expensive than aftermarket or rebuilt options. 
• DIY vs. Professional Repair: Doing the repair yourself can save significantly on labor, but complex jobs are best left to mechanics to ensure accuracy. 
• Labor Costs: Rates vary depending on the shop and location, with dealerships often charging more than independent mechanics. 
• Additional Issues: Replacing a component might reveal other worn-out parts, increasing the total cost. 

How much does it cost to fix a power steering light?

The average cost of replacing a power steering pump is £300, with prices ranging from £180 and £500. This price usually also includes PAS (Power Assisted Steering) fluid top-up. If it’s just the power steering hose that needs to be repaired then it can cost around £100-£150 to do the job.