What is the EPS light on a Honda?

The EPS light signals a fault in Honda’s electric power steering system, which may reduce or eliminate steering assist and should be addressed promptly for safety.

What is the EPS light?

EPS stands for Electric Power Steering. In Honda vehicles, the system uses an electric motor along with sensors to provide steering assist. When the system detects a fault, the EPS warning light illuminates on the dashboard. The icon often looks like a steering wheel with an exclamation mark, and in some models you may see the letters “EPS.”

How the system works

Electric power steering is designed to make steering easier at low speeds and maintain precise feel at higher speeds. The control module uses power from the vehicle’s 12V electrical system to drive a motor that augments the driver’s input. A fault in any part of the loop—sensor, motor, wiring, or software—can trigger the warning.

What to do if the EPS light comes on

If the EPS light appears, take steps to protect yourself and your vehicle. The following steps help you respond safely while determining the severity of the fault.

1. Safely pull over and, if possible, turn the engine off and back on to see if the light clears. Do not continue driving aggressively if the warning remains.


2. Check the 12V battery and charging system. A weak battery or poor charging can affect the EPS module’s power supply.


3. Look for obvious electrical issues near the steering column, fuse box, or related wiring. Loose connections or damaged cables can provoke intermittent faults.


4. If the light stays on, limit driving and seek service promptly. Avoid high-speed or emergency maneuvers until a professional can diagnose the issue.


5. Have the vehicle diagnosed by a dealer or qualified technician. A scan of the EPS control module can reveal fault codes and guide repairs to the motor, sensor, or wiring.

The EPS system is integral to steering assist, and fixes can range from simple wiring reseats to component replacement or software updates. A professional diagnosis is the safest path forward.

Common causes of the EPS warning

Several issues can trigger the EPS warning light. The most common causes include electrical faults, battery problems, sensor failures, and software glitches.

• Low or failing 12V battery or alternator not supplying adequate power to the EPS system.


• Faulty EPS motor or steering column motor.


• Torque/steering angle sensor failure, which provides incorrect input to the control module.


• Damaged or loose electrical wiring and connectors in the EPS circuit.


• Blown fuse or relay related to the EPS system.


• Software fault or communication error between the EPS module and other vehicle controllers.


• Mechanical binding or damage in the steering column or rack that hampers normal movement.

A precise diagnosis is needed to pinpoint the exact cause, as solutions vary from simple fixes to component replacements.

Safety considerations and driving after the light

Driving with a suspected EPS fault carries risk. If steering assist is reduced or lost, you’ll notice increased steering effort, especially at low speeds or during quick maneuvers. When the EPS light is on, drive cautiously—avoid sudden steering inputs, high speeds, or rough terrain—and arrange for a professional inspection as soon as possible.

Maintenance and what to expect at the shop

When you bring a Honda with an EPS warning to a service shop, technicians typically perform a diagnostic scan to read fault codes, test the motor and sensors, inspect wiring, and verify battery health. Depending on the findings, repairs may include software updates, replacing the EPS motor or steering angle/torque sensor, or repairing wiring and connectors. Maintaining a healthy 12V battery can also prevent false EPS faults caused by voltage dips.

Recalls and how to check your vehicle

Some EPS-related issues have been subject to recalls for certain model years. If your Honda is affected, a dealer will perform the repair at no cost. To determine if a recall applies to your vehicle, check your VIN against official recall databases (such as NHTSA or Honda) and contact a dealer for confirmation and scheduling.

Summary

The EPS light on a Honda warns of a fault in the electric power steering system, which can reduce or remove steering assist and impact safety. Respond by safely pulling over, checking for electrical issues, and scheduling a professional diagnosis. Common causes include battery problems, faulty motors or sensors, wiring issues, and software faults. Driving with the light on should be done with caution until repairs are performed, and owners should verify recall status where applicable.

How much does it cost to fix EPS?

EPS (electric power steering) repair costs vary significantly based on the specific problem, ranging from a $100–$300 minor fix to a $530–$1,550 full steering column replacement. Costs for individual components can include $300–$800 for an EPS motor or $700–$2,420 for a rack and pinion replacement, with labor and specific vehicle models impacting the final price. 
Repair cost breakdown for electric power steering (EPS)

• Minor fixes: $100–$300 
• EPS motor replacement: $300–$800 
• Full steering column replacement: $530–$1,550 
• Power steering rack replacement: $710–$2,420 (often includes a wheel alignment) 
• Electric power steering rack replacement: Up to $1,700 or more, depending on labor rates and the need for reprogramming 

Factors that influence cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or large vehicles often have more expensive parts. 
• Parts used: The cost can vary depending on whether you use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, aftermarket parts, or a used pump. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs vary by location and the complexity of the repair. 
• Additional services: A rack and pinion replacement, for example, will require a subsequent wheel alignment, adding to the total cost. 
• Severity of the issue: A simple fix like a fluid top-off is much cheaper than a complete system replacement. 

Can you drive with an EPS light on?

You should avoid driving with the EPS light on because it indicates a power steering system failure, making the car significantly harder to steer. If the light comes on, pull over as soon as it is safe, turn off the car, and restart it. If the light remains on or steering becomes very stiff, you should not drive the vehicle and should have it inspected by a professional to avoid further damage or accidents.
 
This video explains what to do when the EPS light comes on: 54sCar ManufacturingYouTube · Apr 10, 2025
What to do if the EPS light turns on

• Pull over safely: Find a safe location to pull over as quickly as possible. 
• Turn off the engine: Shut the car off completely for about 30 seconds. 
• Restart the car: Turn the engine back on. Sometimes this will reset the system and turn the light off. 
• Check for stiffness: Pay close attention to how the steering feels. If it becomes extremely stiff or unresponsive, do not drive the car. 

Why you shouldn't drive with the light on

• Safety risk: Without power steering assistance, the steering wheel will be very difficult to turn, especially at low speeds or during maneuvers, which can lead to accidents. 
• Potential for more damage: Continuing to drive can cause further damage to the steering system, leading to more costly repairs. 

This video demonstrates how to reset the power steering warning light: 59sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 8, 2022
When to seek professional help

• If the EPS light stays on after restarting the car. 
• If you experience increased steering effort or difficulty steering at any point. 
• If you hear any unusual noises when turning the wheel. 

A professional can diagnose and fix the underlying issue, which could be a problem with the electric motor, a sensor, a fuse, or other components.

How serious is an EPS light?

This light, often represented by a steering wheel icon or the letters “EPS” (Electric Power Steering), indicates that there is an issue with your steering system. If your power steering light turns on unexpectedly, it doesn't always mean immediate danger, but it's a sign that your car should be inspected promptly.

What would cause my EPS light to come on?

The EPS (Electric Power Steering) light comes on due to a fault in the power steering system, often caused by electrical issues like a low battery, faulty sensors (steering angle or torque sensor), or problems with the control module or motor. For hydraulic systems, low fluid levels or a failing pump can trigger the warning light. A simple restart can sometimes clear a temporary electronic glitch, but persistent issues require a professional diagnosis and repair, as driving with the light on can make steering difficult and dangerous. 
This video explains the causes and potential fixes for the EPS light: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 8, 2022
Common causes for the EPS light
For Electric Power Steering (EPS)

• Electrical problems: Low battery voltage, a failing alternator, or loose/corroded battery connections can cause the light to illuminate. 
• Sensor issues: A malfunctioning steering angle or torque sensor is a common culprit, as these sensors provide critical data to the system. 
• Control module or motor failure: The Electric Power Steering (EPS) control module or the steering motor itself may have failed. 
• Wiring problems: Loose or corroded wiring connections can disrupt power to the system. 
• Software glitches: Temporary electronic glitches can sometimes cause the light to come on. 

For Hydraulic Power Steering

• Low fluid levels: A low power steering fluid level is a very common cause, often due to a leak in a hose or seal. 
• Failing pump: The pump responsible for circulating the fluid may be failing. 
• Belt issues: The belt that drives the power steering pump could be loose, slipping, or broken. 

What you should do

1. Restart the car: Turn the car off, wait about 30 seconds, and then restart it to see if the light disappears. This can resolve temporary electronic glitches. 
2. Check the battery: Ensure your battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and secure. A weak battery can trigger the light. 
3. Scan for codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes. This will give a more specific indication of the problem. 
4. Visit a mechanic: If the light remains on, have a professional technician inspect the system. They can accurately diagnose and repair the issue, which is crucial for safety.