What does the steering wheel light mean on a Honda Civic?

The steering wheel warning light on a Honda Civic usually signals a fault in the electric power steering system (EPS). You may notice reduced or heavier steering, and you should have the vehicle inspected promptly.

Modern Civics rely on an electric power steering system that provides varying levels of assist depending on driving conditions. When the EPS detects a fault, the warning light comes on to protect the system and alert the driver. The issue can range from a simple electrical glitch to a more serious mechanical or sensor fault, so timely diagnosis is important for safe handling.

What the light looks like and when it appears

The warning is typically shown as a steering wheel icon, often accompanied by an exclamation mark or a small “P/S” indicator. It can come on at ignition, illuminate while driving, or stay on after startup. In some Civic models, the light may flash briefly during startup or appear alongside other warning lights on the dash.

What it means for the Civic's steering system

Honda’s EPS uses an electric motor to provide steering assist. A fault detected by the EPS control module may trigger a fail-safe mode that reduces or eliminates assist, making steering heavier, especially at low speeds. Possible causes include problems with the EPS motor or torque sensor, wiring or connector faults, battery voltage issues, or software faults in the EPS controller. In some cases, the system can still operate but with degraded performance.

What to do if the light comes on

If you see the steering wheel warning light, follow these steps to stay safe and diagnose the problem:

• Find a safe place to pull over and assess steering feel. If steering is still possible but heavier than normal, proceed cautiously.


• Check the battery and charging system. Low voltage can trigger EPS warnings or affect steering assist.


• Restart the engine. If the light goes off and steering feels normal, schedule a diagnostic soon to confirm there’s no recurring fault.


• If the light stays on or steering becomes unreliable, avoid high-speed driving and contact roadside assistance or have the Civic towed to a Honda dealer or qualified shop.


• Have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic trouble codes related to the EPS or steering system. A technician should inspect the EPS motor, torque sensor, wiring, and connections.

Driving with a potentially failing EPS can affect handling and safety, so addressing the warning promptly reduces risk to you and others on the road.

Common causes of EPS warning in Honda Civics

These are typical reasons the steering wheel light may illuminate. The exact cause varies by model year and driving conditions:

• Low battery voltage or charging issues that affect the EPS controller


• Faulty electric power steering motor or torque sensor


• Wiring, grounding, or connector problems in the EPS circuit


• Software/firmware faults in the EPS control module


• Mechanical issues in the steering rack or column

These are common culprits, but only a professional diagnostic can confirm the precise fault and the needed repair.

Summary

The steering wheel light on a Honda Civic generally points to a problem with the electric power steering system. Depending on the root cause, you may experience normal or reduced steering assist. If the light appears, drive cautiously, check basic electricals, and seek a professional diagnostic to restore full steering reliability.

What is the steering warning light on a Honda Civic?

A Honda Civic with a steering wheel light on the dashboard indicates a problem with the electric power steering (EPS) system or the electronic steering lock (ESL). You should pull over to a safe location immediately and not drive the vehicle until it is inspected, as it can lead to difficulty steering and a loss of steering control. Potential causes include low fluid, a malfunctioning sensor or actuator, or issues with the immobilizer system. 
This video explains how to troubleshoot and reset the power steering warning light: 56sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Feb 5, 2025
Immediate actions and potential causes

• Pull over and stop: Do not continue driving, especially if the steering feels heavy. 
• Restart the car: Sometimes, a temporary glitch can be resolved by safely pulling over and restarting the engine. If the light stays on, there is a confirmed issue. 
• Check the key fob: If the steering wheel is locked or warning lights appear, check the key fob battery and ensure the key is properly recognized by the car, especially on models with an electronic steering lock feature. 
• Check for leaks (for older hydraulic systems): If you have a hydraulic system, the light might indicate low power steering fluid. Check the reservoir for leaks and low fluid levels, says Goodyear Auto Service. 
• Check the battery and connections: A weak or dying battery can affect the power steering system. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and tight, and consider having the charging system inspected, notes Honda of Vallejo. 

When to seek professional help

• Consult a technician: If the light remains on after restarting or if you've addressed the basic checks, the system needs to be diagnosed by a qualified technician. They can use an OBD-II scanner to read the specific fault codes and identify the exact problem. 
• Be aware of potential component failure: Issues can range from a simple sensor to a more serious problem with the electric power steering motor, steering lock actuator, or immobilizer system. 
• Check for warranty extensions: Some Honda models have had warranty extensions for EPS issues. Your dealer can check if your vehicle is eligible. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the steering angle sensor: 59sYOUCANICYouTube · May 22, 2023

What does the steering wheel symbol mean on a Honda?

Pull your Honda vehicle over and restore normal tire pressure. Steering: A light that looks like a steering wheel next to an exclamation point indicates your power steering has failed.

What does it mean when your steering wheel light comes on?

What Does the Steering Wheel Light Mean? A steering wheel and exclamation point appear when your car's power steering fluid levels are low or when there's a fault in the system.

Can I drive with the steering wheel light on?

It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with the red power steering warning light on. If the power steering system fails, the car will become difficult to steer, making it potentially dangerous to drive.