What is the electric power steering warning light on a Lexus RX 350?
The electric power steering (EPS) warning light on a Lexus RX 350 signals a fault in the EPS system or reduced steering assist. In most cases, you’ll notice stiffer steering and should seek service promptly.
In the RX 350 line, EPS uses an electric motor and sensors to provide steering assist instead of a traditional hydraulic pump. A fault can arise from a weak battery or charging system, a faulty motor or control module, a bad steering angle sensor, or damaged wiring. The warning may appear by itself or alongside other dash lights, and the vehicle may enter a safety mode with diminished or no assist to protect the system.
What the EPS warning light signals
The following points describe common meanings behind the EPS warning light in a Lexus RX 350. If any of these conditions appear, treat them as a potential safety issue and seek service.
- Fault in the electric power steering system, such as a motor, control module, or sensor failure.
- Low or fluctuating electrical voltage from the 12-volt battery or charging system, which can affect EPS performance.
- Steering angle sensor or steering column issues that prevent proper torque feedback to the EPS controller.
- Software calibration or communication fault between EPS components and the vehicle’s central computer.
When the light appears, it may be accompanied by other warnings or appear momentarily and then stay on. The safest course is to have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician, especially if steering feel changes or becomes heavy.
What to do when the light comes on
Use these steps to handle an EPS warning light safely and methodically. They can help you determine whether you can continue driving briefly or should stop and seek service.
- Safely pull over and attempt a cautious re-start. In some cases, the light may disappear after a restart, but this does not guarantee the issue is resolved.
- Check the vehicle’s battery and alternator health. A weak or failing 12V battery can trigger EPS faults; if the battery is old or showing signs of failure, have it tested or replaced.
- Inspect fuses and look for obvious wiring issues near the steering column or under the dash. Loose or damaged connections can cause EPS faults.
- Limit driving and avoid high-speed maneuvers if the light remains on or steering feels heavy. Reduced assist can make steering harder, especially at low speeds.
- Have the vehicle diagnosed with an OBD-II scanner and Lexus/Toyota-specific software to read EPS error codes. A dealership or qualified shop can determine whether the fault is mechanical, electrical, or software-related.
Concluding: If the EPS light stays on after troubleshooting or you notice persistent changes in steering feel, arrange prompt service. Driving with a compromised EPS system can increase the risk of loss of steering assist in critical moments.
Common causes and typical fixes
Understanding the root causes helps set expectations for repair. The following list outlines typical scenarios and how technicians address them.
- Battery or charging system problems: Replacing or upgrading the 12V battery or addressing alternator issues can restore proper EPS voltage.
- EPS motor or controller failure: A defective motor or control module may require replacement or reprogramming.
- Steering angle sensor fault: Recalibration or replacement of the steering angle sensor is often needed for proper torque feedback.
Note: Some Lexus RX 350 models may be subject to recalls or service campaigns affecting EPS components. If you experience EPS issues, provide your VIN to a dealership to check for open recalls or updates.
Summary
The EPS warning light on the Lexus RX 350 indicates a fault or degraded performance in the electric power steering system. It can be triggered by electrical issues, sensor or motor faults, or wiring problems, and it may reduce or remove steering assist. If the warning appears, prioritize safety, perform basic checks, and seek professional diagnosis and repair to restore full steering capability.
How to fix electric power steering warning light?
5 seconds. Turn the steering wheel to the full left lock position and apply force for approximately. 5 seconds. Return the steering wheel to the straightforward. Position turn off the ignition.
How expensive is it to fix electric power steering?
Electric power steering repair costs vary significantly depending on the specific issue, with minor fixes potentially costing $100–$300, while replacing major components like the EPS motor or full steering column can range from $300 to $1,550 or more. Factors like vehicle make and model, the specific part that needs replacement, and labor rates all influence the final price.
This video explains the cost of electric power steering repair and the factors that influence it: 1mTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Jun 7, 2025
Cost breakdown by repair type
- Minor fixes: Simple issues like a sensor or small leak can sometimes be fixed for $100–$300.
- EPS Motor: If the electronic motor fails, replacement costs typically range from $300 to $800.
- Full Steering Column: Replacing the entire steering column is one of the more expensive repairs, with costs often falling between $530 and $1,550.
- Steering Rack: Replacing the steering rack can cost between $710 and $2,420 for most vehicles.
- Diagnostic Fees: Some shops charge a diagnostic fee, which can be around $200, to determine the exact problem.
Factors that affect the cost
- Vehicle Make and Model: The cost of parts varies significantly based on the vehicle. For example, dealer parts can be more expensive than aftermarket ones.
- Labor Costs: Labor can account for a significant portion of the total cost, especially for complex repairs like a steering column or rack replacement.
- Shop Location: Labor rates vary by geographic location, so getting quotes from different shops can be beneficial.
- Part vs. Labor: In many cases, labor costs can be higher than the price of the part itself.
- DIY vs. Professional: If you have the mechanical skill, doing the work yourself can save significant money on labor. However, professional help is recommended for more complex issues, and some repairs require specialized equipment or programming.
Can I drive with the electric power steering light on?
Some vehicles may still drive normally with the light on, while others become difficult to steer. Either way, you should have the system checked to avoid worsening the issue.
What is the power steering warning light on a Lexus RX 350?
The Lexus RX 350 power steering warning light, often a red or yellow steering wheel with an exclamation point, indicates a problem with the power steering system, which can make steering difficult. The issue is typically electrical, caused by a weak battery, failing alternator, or a faulty power steering ECU. If you see this light, pull over to a safe location, as the power assist may be disabled, and have the vehicle inspected by a technician immediately.
What the light means
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) Malfunction: Modern RX 350s have an electric system, so low fluid is not the cause.
- Electrical Issues: The light can be triggered by a low-voltage battery or a faulty alternator, which can affect the EPS system's stability.
- Other Faults: The problem could also be a faulty steering angle sensor, a problem with the power steering ECU (computer), or other electrical system issues.
- Intermittent Loss of Assist: You may experience intermittent power steering loss, which is dangerous and requires immediate attention from a dealer.
What to do
- Pull over safely: As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road.
- Avoid continuing to drive: Driving with the warning light on is dangerous because you may have to use significant physical force to turn the wheel.
- Do not rely on the light disappearing after a restart: While a simple reset can sometimes turn the light off, it indicates a potential underlying issue that needs to be properly diagnosed and repaired.
- Have it inspected by a professional: Have the vehicle towed to a Lexus dealer or a qualified technician to diagnose the specific problem. They will need to check the electrical system for faults.
