Modern-day vehicles come equipped with sophisticated systems that notify the driver of faults in any car system.
These systems are powered by electricity and often display a yellow, orange, or red exclamation mark, depending on the steering model.
The electric power steering Warning Light often illuminates to signal the driver to take swift action because the steering wheel might become hard to steer if not addressed.
This mainly happens because of a power steering failure and can be fixed by a proper diagnosis and repair by a mechanic.
In this article, I’ll explain what an electric power steering warning light means and possible ways to fix it.
What is Electric Power Steering Warning Light?
The electric power steering warning light informs you of a failed power steering system and calls for immediate attention.
The simplicity of the repair is dependent on the type of steering wheel installed on your vehicle, and in most hydraulic power steering systems, a leak Is likely to occur.
A leak in the power steering system will result in a low power steering fluid level making the steering wheel feel hard while navigating. This will further illuminate the power steering warning light.
However, If you have the electric or electronic power steering system installed on your car, you don’t have to worry about fluid leaks but battery drainage.
If you recently disconnected and reconnected your car battery terminals, this warning light often appears on EPS systems.
Vehicles like the Rav4, Kia Soul, and Toyota often encounter the electric power steering warning light.
Below are the best practices to follow if the power steering warning light comes up on your car’s dashboard.
How to Fix the Electric Power Steering Warning Light
Your response to clearing the power steering warning light differs depending on the steering system installed on your car.
Meanwhile, if the warning light comes up while driving, it’s best that you park in a safe spot where an investigation can be done.
You should check the steering fluid level for a hydraulic power steering system, which can be found on a reservoir with the steering fluid label.
You should top the steering fluid reservoir if it’s below the operating level. You can now turn your car on.
The warning light should clear off immediately or after running the engine. However, you should take your car to a mechanic since leaks in the steering system are possible.
However, for an electronic power steering system, the warning light occurs mainly due to faults in your battery connection.
You can turn the ignition OFF and ON to see if the warning light will disappear. You can also check the wiring harness of the battery.
If the warning light doesn’t go off after this simple troubleshooting, you should seek a mechanic’s service.
FAQs
What does it mean when the electric power steering light comes on?
The electric power steering warning light signifies a failed power steering system and calls for immediate attention.
How do you fix an electric power steering warning light?
On an Electric power steering system, you only need to turn the ignition ON and OFF to reset the system. You can also check if there’s a fault in the wiring harness of the battery.
Can I drive with the electric power steering light on?
No, driving with the electric power steering light is not advised because you’ll experience difficulty handling the steering wheel, which could lead to unresponsiveness or accidents.
What causes electric power steering failure?
Electric power steering fails because of issues in the battery wiring, problems with the electric motor, and leaks in the steering system.
Does low battery affect electric power steering?
Yes, the electric power steering is powered by current from the battery. If the battery is low, you won’t be able to steer the car while the car is off. Talk more about starting the vehicle.
Can you fix the electric power steering problems?
If you know your car’s electrical components, fixing the electric power steering issue should be hard. However, you can seek the service of a mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
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