What does it mean when the steering assist light comes on?
The steering assist light on your vehicle's dashboard indicates an issue with the power steering system. When this light comes on, it signals a problem that requires immediate attention to ensure safe and reliable steering control.
Understanding the Steering Assist Light
The steering assist light, also known as the power steering warning light, is part of your vehicle's diagnostic system. It is designed to alert you when the power steering system is not functioning correctly. Power steering is a crucial safety feature that makes it easier to turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when parking.
When the steering assist light illuminates, it means the vehicle's onboard computer has detected a problem with the power steering system. This could be due to a variety of issues, such as low power steering fluid, a malfunctioning power steering pump, or a problem with the steering assist motor or sensors.
Potential Causes of the Steering Assist Light
- Low power steering fluid: The power steering system relies on a sufficient amount of fluid to operate properly. If the fluid level is low, the light may come on to indicate the need for a fluid top-up.
- Faulty power steering pump: The power steering pump is responsible for circulating the fluid through the system. If the pump is failing, it can cause the steering assist light to illuminate.li>
- Electrical issues: Problems with the power steering motor, sensors, or wiring can also trigger the steering assist light.
- Mechanical problems: Worn or damaged power steering components, such as the rack and pinion or the steering linkage, can cause the light to come on.
If the steering assist light illuminates, it's important to have the issue diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning power steering system can make the vehicle more difficult to control, increasing the risk of an accident.
What to Do When the Steering Assist Light Comes On
- Check the power steering fluid level: Locate the power steering fluid reservoir and ensure the level is within the recommended range. Top up the fluid if necessary.
- Inspect the power steering system: Look for any visible leaks or damage to the power steering components, such as the hoses, pump, or steering linkage.
- Have the system diagnosed: Take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic or dealership service center to have the power steering system diagnosed and repaired. They can use diagnostic tools to identify the specific issue causing the steering assist light to illuminate.
- Follow the mechanic's recommendations: Once the problem has been identified, follow the mechanic's advice for the necessary repairs or maintenance to restore the power steering system to proper working order.
Addressing the steering assist light promptly is crucial for maintaining safe and reliable steering control. By understanding the potential causes and taking the appropriate steps, you can ensure your vehicle's power steering system is functioning correctly and keep yourself and others on the road safe.
What causes the power steering warning light to come on?
When your car is running low on power steering liquid, it will trigger the warning. A bright EPS light may also come on if your car has an electronic power steering (EPS) system. Since EPS has no fluid, there won't be any fluid for you to monitor or maintain. Instead, the flaw may be due to an electrical fault.
Can a bad battery cause power steering light to come on?
As a consequence, the steering effort needed by the driver rises, making steering more difficult and tiring. In addition to the absence of power assist, a faulty battery might cause fault codes and warning lights on the vehicle's dashboard. These symptoms act as a warning that something is awry with the EPS system.
How much does it cost to fix steering assist?
Power Steering Replacement Costs
Power Steering Rack Replacement: Replacing the power steering rack, which includes the rack-and-pinion assembly, can range from $500 to $1,200 or more, including parts and labor.
How do I fix my power steering warning?
Below are the key steps to help you fix power steering warning light:
- Step 1: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level (Hydraulic Systems)
- Step 2: Inspect for Leaks.
- Step 3: Check the Power Steering Belt (Hydraulic Systems)
- Step 4: Test the Electrical Connections (Electric Power Steering Systems)
- Step 5: Reset the System.
Can I drive with the power steering warning light on?
If you're driving along and you notice your power steering light come on – which looks like a steering wheel with an exclamation mark next to it – you should park your car in a safe place as soon as you can, taking extra care as you'll be struggling a little with much heavier steering.
What causes a power steering assist fault?
Bad wheel alignment, or misaligned wheels, can trick the computer into thinking there's an issue in the steering angle sensor. This prompts the power steering assist fault message to appear.
Can you still drive with a power steering assist fault?
As long as you can turn the steering wheel without the aid of the power steering system you will be able to drive, but I don't recommend you continue to operate the vehicle with this condition. Difficulty steering might lead to a loss of vehicle control and a collision. The system should be repaired.
What causes a steering assist fault?
Bad wheel alignment, or misaligned wheels, can trick the computer into thinking there's an issue in the steering angle sensor. This prompts the power steering assist fault message to appear.
What does it mean when steering assist light comes on?
Generally, when the light comes on, your car is about to lose the power steering assist. It could be a fluid loss through a leak or an electric problem. For electric power steering systems, it could be a glitch with the vehicle's computer system or an electrical fault, either a malfunctioning alternator or battery.
Can you turn steering assist off?
How to Enable or Disable Steering Assist. It is a simple process to activate or deactivate the Steering Assist function. You first press the recognizable LDA button on the steering wheel. Then you navigate to the LDA menu on the dashboard using the scroll buttons that also located on the steering wheel.
