What are the disadvantages of electric power steering?
Electric power steering (EPS) offers efficiency and light steering, but it also comes with drawbacks. The main issues include cost, reliance on electronics and the vehicle’s electrical system, potential changes to steering feel, and reliability concerns in certain conditions.
How EPS changes steering dynamics
Electric power steering replaces the hydraulic pump and fluid with an electric motor and a control module. This setup saves fuel and reduces mechanical drag, but it can alter feel and response in ways that vary by model and driving conditions.
Financial and maintenance drawbacks
Before listing the concrete points, consider the cost and upkeep implications of EPS systems.
- Higher upfront cost compared with traditional hydraulic systems due to motors, sensors, and software.
- Potentially higher repair costs when electronics fail, requiring specialized diagnostics and parts.
- Dependence on the vehicle’s electrical system; a weak battery or alternator can reduce steering assist or trigger warning lights.
- Sensor calibration and software updates may be needed after component replacements, adding time and expense.
In practice, total ownership costs vary by make, model, and how well the electrical system is maintained.
Steering feel and driving experience
EPS can change the tactile feel of steering compared with hydraulic systems. Some drivers report a lighter, less “natural” feel at low speeds or a numb sensation in corners, while others appreciate the ease of urban maneuvering. The degree of assist can be tuned by the manufacturer and may differ across trims and driving modes.
Common complaints about steering feel and response are summarized in the following list.
- Overly light or inconsistent feel at low speeds, which can reduce perceived road feedback.
- Variable assist with speed, leading to a different steering sensation in city driving versus highway speeds.
- Perceived lack of feedback or “connection” to the road, especially in sporty or high-traction conditions.
- Edge-case behavior where abrupt inputs feel amplified or dampened depending on software calibration.
Manufacturers often address these concerns with selectable drive modes or steering feel customization, but availability varies by model.
Reliability, safety, and failure modes
EPS relies on sensors, actuators, and software that interact with the vehicle’s battery and electrical system. This introduces failure modes that are atypical for purely mechanical or hydraulic systems, though many designs include safeguards and fallback behavior.
- Software glitches or calibration errors can cause unexpected steering response or require dealer software updates.
- Loss of electrical power can reduce or remove steering assist, increasing effort; some systems offer a manual override or limp-home mode, but behavior varies by model.
- Heat buildup in the motor or electronics during extended or aggressive steering can affect performance in hot climates or during prolonged maneuvering.
- Diagnostics can be more complex, and qualified technicians may be required to diagnose issues compared with traditional hydraulic systems.
Most modern EPS units are designed with fail-safe modes, but reliability still hinges on battery health, sensor integrity, and software stability.
Impact on ADAS and vehicle integration
EPS is integral to many advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including lane-keeping assist and automated steering features. While this integration improves safety and performance, it also introduces calibration challenges after maintenance, crashes, or component replacements.
Operational conditions and performance trade-offs
In certain situations, EPS performance can vary, such as during heavy steering input, cold weather, or high-load scenarios (e.g., towing or aggressive cornering). Some systems may momentarily delay or modulate assist to protect components or optimize energy use, which can surprise drivers accustomed to a more immediate response.
Overall, while EPS reduces engine parasitic drag and contributes to efficiency, it adds electronics, sensors, and software that can increase complexity and potential points of failure. Consumers should consider model-specific behavior, maintenance requirements, and battery health when evaluating EPS-equipped vehicles.
Conclusion: Should you worry?
For most drivers, EPS delivers reliable steering assistance with lower fuel use and less mechanical drag. The disadvantages are largely cost, maintenance, and feel rather than safety-critical failures. Regular battery maintenance, software updates, and choosing a model with steering feel customization can mitigate many concerns.
Summary
Electric power steering offers clear benefits in efficiency and ease of use, but its downsides include higher upfront and potential repair costs, reliance on the electrical system and sensors, possible changes to steering feel, and added complexity for diagnostics and ADAS integration. When considering an EPS-equipped vehicle, test drive to assess feel, verify the warranty and service coverage for electronics, and review the manufacturer's guidance on maintenance requirements.
