Power steering is a key feature found in most modern cars that reduces the amount of effort required to steer the wheel. When the power steering dashboard warning light appears, this indicates there is a fault with the power steering system.
In this guide, we’ll define power steering, and the different power steering system types you may encounter. We’ll also explain what the power steering warning light means, its common causes, and the action you should take when it appears.
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What is power steering?
If you’ve ever driven an older car without power steering, you’ll know that steering and manoeuvring is considerably more demanding compared to a modern motor with this technology.
A power steering system will help to reduce the strain associated with everyday driving and parking manoeuvres. There are two main types of power steering: hydraulic and electric. We’ll cover these in more detail in the next section.
Types of power steering systems
When it comes to resolving power steering issues, it’s important to know which type of power steering system your car uses. Here’s a quick explainer on the two main power steering types:
Hydraulic power steering
A hydraulic power steering system utilises a pump, which is driven by the engine to push fluid through pipes. This fluid applies pressure to chambers within the steering mechanism, which makes it easier to turn the wheels.
Electric power steering (EPS)
An electric power steering (EPS) system uses an electric motor, which is powered by the car’s battery. This motor applies extra torque to the steering system, making it easier to turn the wheels.
Hydraulic vs. EPS: How do they differ?
- Hydraulic power steering predates EPS technology. In 1926, Francis Davis was the first person to successfully fit a hydraulic power steering system to an automobile.
- The first mass-produced car to feature an EPS system was the 1988 Suzuki Cervo.
- Today, EPS is fitted as standard in most new cars.
- When it comes to handling, some driving purists prefer hydraulic power steering systems, as they provide a more natural ‘feel’ due to their direct connection to the steering system - something that is absent with an EPS system.
- Hydraulic power steering systems have more parts than their EPS counterparts, which increases their risk of failure. If you experience a problem with your hydraulic power steering, you may spend more on repairs. In fact, in some cases, it may be cheaper to replace the system outright!
- As an EPS forms a part of the car’s electronic network, it can sync with other functions, such as automatic parallel parking.
- With a modern EPS, you can easily adjust the handling to suit your driving preferences. For instance, if your car has a ‘sport’ mode, the EPS will add weight when navigating corners, providing more tactile handling.
What does the power steering warning light mean?
The power steering warning light is usually denoted by a steering wheel accompanied by an exclamation mark, or the letters ‘EPS’ (for electric power steering systems). These warnings appear in yellow or red.
When a power steering issue is present, you’ll probably notice that it’s harder to steer and manoeuvre your car. This could compromise your safety, particularly when driving at high speeds or navigating sharp corners.
When the light is flashing, this usually means that your car has lost its power steering (or is about to do so). If you have a hydraulic power steering system, this could be due to a leak in the power steering system, or, if you have an EPS system, an electrical fault could be to blame.
If the power steering warning light appears, you should have your car checked over by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Common causes for the power steering warning light
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Hydraulic power steering issues
- Low power steering fluid: The fluid utilised in hydraulic power steering systems is vital for transferring power. Therefore, when it’s running low, you’ll expend more effort turning the steering wheel, due to decreased steering efficiency. Low steering fluid may be caused by a leak in one of the hoses.
- A failing pump: If the pump responsible for pushing fluid through the steering system stops working, this will trigger the power steering warning light.
- A leak in the power steering system: This will cause fluid to drip out.
- A faulty power steering belt: If the belt responsible for driving the power steering pump breaks, or is slipping, this will stop the system from working properly, and trigger the warning light.
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Electric power steering issues
- Electrical faults: Issues with the wiring within the power steering system or motor will trigger the warning light.
- Software issues: Modern electric power steering systems are controlled by software. Therefore, a software glitch affecting the power steering could trigger the warning light. Sometimes, a software error may cause the computer to warn you about errors that are not present. In any case, you should take your car to be checked out by a mechanic.
Is it safe to drive with the power steering light on?
Whilst it is technically possible to drive with the power steering light on, you’ll notice a stark difference in your car’s handling and manoeuvrability, especially if there has been a total loss of power steering.
Driving without power steering can be dangerous - and you’ll have to exert more effort during every turn. It’s safest to avoid driving until the problem is resolved, as with compromised steering, your risk of being involved in a collision increases.
If the power steering warning light appears, pull over to investigate the issue, when it is safe to do. Call your roadside assistance provider to tow your car to the nearest garage, if necessary.
What should I do when the power steering warning light comes on?
The process to follow when the power steering warning light appears depends on whether you have a hydraulic or EPS system:
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If you have a hydraulic power steering system
- Pull over when it is safe to do so.
- Turn off the ignition and wait five minutes for the engine to cool down.
- Open the bonnet and look for the power steering fluid container. The cap will be labelled ‘power steering fluid’.
- Check the power steering fluid level. If it is below the minimum level, you’ll need to top it up. You can do this yourself if you have a bottle of power steering fluid to hand. Otherwise, you can get it topped up at your local garage.
- Secure the lid on the power steering fluid container.
- Start your car to see whether the warning light is still active.
If this does not resolve the issue, book your car in at your local garage.
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If you have an electronic power steering (EPS) system
The EPS warning light will sometimes appear due to a computer error. You may be able to resolve it by pulling over, turning off the ignition, and waiting for a few minutes. The system will reset itself when you restart the car.
However, if the warning light persists, you should have the steering system checked over by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Will my car fail its MOT for a power steering warning light?
Yes, your car will fail its MOT if the power steering warning light illuminates during the test.
During an MOT inspection, the tester will road test your car to detect any issues that may be affecting your power steering’s performance:
- If you have a hydraulic power steering system, the tester may check for a fluid leak. This is often caused by faulty joints or seals. If the power steering fluid level is low, or there is evidence of leakage, you will automatically fail your MOT.
- If the steering is uneven (i.e. if it’s harder to turn the steering wheel in one direction than the other), or your car pulls to one side whilst on the move, this will also result in MOT failure.
How can I reset the power steering warning light?
If you have an EPS system, you might be able to resolve the power steering warning light by simply turning off your engine and restarting it. If you have a hydraulic power steering system, topping up the power steering fluid container by following the steps covered earlier may solve the issue.
Otherwise, you should have your car checked over by a mechanic. We strongly advise against driving with a power steering warning light, as your car’s handling and safety could be compromised. Instead, call your breakdown provider and arrange for your car to be towed to the nearest garage.
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