What is the EP warning light on a Honda HR-V?
The EP warning light signals a fault in the electric power steering system, which can reduce or remove steering assist. If it appears, treat it as a safety issue and seek service promptly.
This article explains what EP stands for, what the warning typically indicates, how to respond safely, and the common causes behind the indicator. The guidance reflects Honda’s EPS (electric power steering) systems as used in the HR-V and similar models up through 2024–2025.
What the EP warning light signals
The EP indicator is tied to the vehicle’s electric power steering (EPS) system. When it lights up, it usually means there is a fault that could prevent the steering assist from engaging or maintaining proper assist. You might notice a heavier steering feel, particularly at low speeds, or see the warning light stay illuminated or flash on your dashboard.
Commonly, the EP warning light will appear under these conditions:
- Loss of steering assist or noticeably heavier steering, especially at low speeds
- The EP or EPS warning light remains on or starts flashing
- Steering feels stiff, unusual, or you hear a change in the EPS motor sound
- The light appears alongside other warning indicators (such as battery or ABS)
- Temporary resets after restart but the warning returns
In practice, an illuminated EP light is a safety-related alert about the EPS system. Driving with reduced or no assist can make steering more demanding, particularly in tight maneuvers, so seek service to diagnose the EPS circuitry, sensors, and wiring.
What to do if the EP light comes on
If the EP light appears, follow these steps to minimize risk and identify potential causes.
- Safely reduce speed and pull over as soon as feasible. Avoid sharp turns or high-speed driving until the issue is diagnosed.
- Restart the engine to see if the light clears. If it stays on, do not continue driving long distances.
- Check for obvious electrical issues, such as battery condition or loose/corroded terminals and connections.
- If steering remains heavy or the system feels unreliable, contact roadside assistance or have the vehicle towed to a Honda dealership for a formal diagnosis.
- Have a qualified technician inspect EPS components, including the steering rack, torque sensor, control module, wiring harness, and software updates.
In all cases, do not ignore a persistent EP warning. Safe driving depends on reliable steering assist, and EPS faults are typically resolved only with professional service and software or hardware replacements as needed.
Common causes and maintenance tips
Several issues can trigger EPS warnings. These are common in Honda HR-V models and similar vehicles:
- Low battery voltage or failing alternator that deprives the EPS control module of power
- Faulty torque sensor or steering column components
- EPS motor or power steering pump problems
- Software glitches or outdated firmware in the EPS control module
- Extreme temperatures or environmental conditions affecting sensors
If the warning recurs after basic checks, professional diagnostics are necessary to determine whether repairs are electrical, mechanical, or software-related. Regular maintenance that keeps the battery and electrical system in good condition can help prevent EPS faults.
What Honda recommends
Honda advises having any persistent EPS warning inspected by a trained technician as soon as possible. If you experience steering concerns, contact a dealer or roadside assistance. Routine maintenance that includes battery health checks and electrical system inspections can help mitigate EPS-related issues over the vehicle’s life.
Summary
The EP warning light on the Honda HR-V flags a problem with the electric power steering system. It can reduce or eliminate steering assist, affecting handling and safety. Treat the warning as a priority, pull over safely, and arrange professional diagnostics to inspect EPS components, wiring, and software. Timely service helps ensure reliable steering and overall vehicle safety.
What is the EPS light on a Honda HRV?
Electric Power Steering Warning light
It indicates a malfunction in the electric power steering (EPS) system. As this system is responsible for helping you maintain vehicle control, you'll want to exercise extreme caution if this light appears.
What is the P light on the dashboard of a Honda HRV?
A "P" warning light on a Honda HR-V, typically a yellow circle with a "P" and an exclamation mark, indicates a problem with the electric parking brake system. If the light is red and flashing, it requires immediate attention and may mean the parking brake is not working properly. You should not use the electric parking brake and should have the vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible.
This video explains what the P warning light on a Honda HR-V means and how to troubleshoot it: 1mForevr8 AutomotiveYouTube · Oct 9, 2021
What to do
- If the light is a solid yellow: It signals a detected problem with the parking brake. Do not use the electric parking brake and have the vehicle serviced.
- If the light is flashing red: This is a more urgent issue. It means there is a problem with the parking brake system. Pull over safely as soon as you can and get the vehicle inspected immediately.
- If the light is steady red: This can indicate a problem with the regular brake system or low brake fluid. Stop driving as soon as it is safe and have your vehicle inspected. If the light goes off after a few seconds when you stop, it may just mean the parking brake is engaged.
- Check other warning lights: Sometimes, the "P" light can appear alongside other lights, such as the check engine light, which may point to related or different issues.
- Have the vehicle scanned: A technician can use an OBD-II scanner to read the specific trouble codes, which will help pinpoint the exact cause of the warning, such as a faulty switch or a sensor issue.
This video shows how to find and reset the parking brake light on a Honda HRV: 55sCam's GarageYouTube · Jul 7, 2021
What is the EP warning light on a Honda HRV?
Electric power steering system
This warning light will appear if there's an issue with the power-assisted steering in your vehicle. It could mean there's an issue with the pump, or there might be a leak – so definitely get the vehicle checked at a garage.
How do you reset the electronic parking brake on a Honda HRV?
Step. Press and hold down the electronic parking brake control button or switch keep it pressed for about 10 to 15 seconds. This step is crucial as it initiate while holding down the control observe
