What does it mean when the steering assist light comes on?
As a car owner, encountering warning lights on your dashboard can be concerning. One such light is the steering assist light, which indicates a potential issue with your vehicle's steering system. In this article, we will explore what it means when the steering assist light comes on, the possible causes, and what steps you should take to address the issue.
What is the Steering Assist Light?
The steering assist light is a warning indicator that appears on your dashboard when there is a problem with the power steering system. This system is crucial for providing the necessary assistance to turn the steering wheel, making it easier for you to maneuver your vehicle. When this light illuminates, it typically means that the power steering is not functioning properly, which can lead to increased difficulty in steering.
Common Causes of the Steering Assist Light Activation
There are several reasons why the steering assist light may come on. Understanding these can help you diagnose the issue more effectively:
- Low Power Steering Fluid: One of the most common causes is low fluid levels in the power steering reservoir. This can lead to inadequate pressure and assist.
- Faulty Power Steering Pump: If the pump is malfunctioning, it may not provide the necessary hydraulic pressure for steering assist.
- Electrical Issues: Many modern vehicles use electronic power steering systems. A fault in the electrical components can trigger the warning light.
- Steering Angle Sensor Malfunction: This sensor helps the vehicle's computer determine how much assist to provide. If it fails, the system may not function correctly.
- Worn Steering Components: Over time, parts such as the steering rack or tie rods can wear out, affecting the steering system's performance.
What to Do When the Steering Assist Light Comes On
If you notice the steering assist light illuminated on your dashboard, it’s important to take action promptly. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Check Power Steering Fluid: Start by checking the fluid level in the power steering reservoir. If it's low, top it off with the appropriate fluid.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for any signs of fluid leaks under your vehicle, which could indicate a problem with the power steering system.
- Restart Your Vehicle: Sometimes, simply turning off your vehicle and restarting it can reset the system and turn off the light.
- Consult a Professional: If the light remains on after these steps, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic. They can perform a thorough diagnostic to identify the underlying issue.
Conclusion
The steering assist light is an important indicator of your vehicle's health, particularly regarding the steering system. Ignoring this warning can lead to more serious issues and potentially compromise your safety on the road. By understanding what the light means and taking appropriate action, you can ensure that your vehicle remains safe and reliable. If you have any concerns or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
