Power Steering Warning Light
The Bulb Check: Power Steering Warning Light
Indicates that your power steering is failing, has an issue or just may be low on fluid.
There are two types of power steering, hydraulic and electric.
What to Do: Power Steering Warning Light
On hydraulic power steering systems, a common reason for the warning light to illuminate is low power steering fluid. Check the fluid level immediately, top it off if it is low with the correct fluid type and the light should turn off.
If your fluid level is at the correct level, then you possibly have a failing pump that isn't creating the correct amount of hydraulic pressure. The solution would be to replace the power steering pump. If you are low on fluid, then this indicates that you have a leak and you will need to get this diagnosed as soon as possible.
For vehicles with electric power steering, there are no fluids to check. First thing to try is simply restarting the vehicle. This can sometimes turn the light off. If the warning light doesn’t turn off after restarting, then there is an issue that needs to be diagnosed further by a professional. There are sensors in the electric power steering that can cause the light to come on. This can also disable the power assist making your steering more like manual steering which can be dangerous.