What is the PS light on my Toyota?

The PS light indicates a fault in the power steering system, either hydraulic (P/S) or electronic (EPS) in newer Toyotas. It can reduce or cut off steering assist, making the wheel harder to turn, so it should be checked promptly by a qualified technician.

In Toyota dashboards, PS or EPS warnings may appear as a P/S symbol, the letters EPS, or a steering wheel icon with a warning. The exact symbol can vary by model and year. The underlying issue could involve fluid level, a sensor, wiring, or a failure in the steering hardware or control module, and driving with the light on should be approached with caution.

Understanding the PS light

Hydraulic vs. electric power steering

Older Toyotas used hydraulic power steering that relies on fluid and a pump. Many newer Toyotas use electronic power steering (EPS), which uses an electric motor, sensors, and a control unit to provide steering assist. When the PS light comes on, the system has detected a fault—either in the hydraulic path or the electronic controls—that could affect steering performance.

Common causes

The following list covers the most frequent reasons you might see the PS warning in a Toyota. It helps you understand what is most likely happening before you visit a shop.

• Low or leaking power steering fluid (for hydraulic systems) or issues related to the hydraulic circuit.


• Power steering pump failure or worn drive belt, leading to insufficient assist.


• Electrical problems such as blown fuses, damaged wiring, or poor connections in the EPS circuit.


• Battery or charging system problems causing low voltage to the EPS motor or control module.


• Faulty steering angle sensor, torque sensor, or EPS electrical motor, often triggering ECU fault codes.


• Sensors or software faults in the EPS control unit requiring diagnostic software updates or replacements.


• Mechanical issues in the steering rack or linkages that impede smooth operation.

Diagnosing the exact cause typically requires scanning the vehicle with a diagnostic tool to read trouble codes (DTCs) and test the EPS system components.

What to do if the PS light comes on

Use these steps to stay safe and identify the issue without risking damage to the vehicle or yourself.

• Safely pull over and assess immediate symptoms: is steering heavy, is there grinding, noise, or leaks?


• If you have hydraulic PS, check the power steering fluid level and condition. If needed, top up with the correct fluid and check for leaks. Do not mix fluids or overfill.


• Check the vehicle’s battery and charging system. EPS can malfunction if voltage is low, so ensure the battery is healthy and the alternator is charging.


• Inspect fuses and connectors related to the power steering/EPS and replace any blown fuses if you know the correct rating.


• Avoid aggressive maneuvers or high-speed driving while the light is on, especially if steering feel is compromised.


• Have the vehicle scanned for error codes at a Toyota dealer or a qualified mechanic to identify faulty components and plan repairs.

In many cases, driving with the PS light on is not immediately dangerous, but continued driving with an unresolved EPS or hydraulic PS fault can lead to more serious damage or unsafe steering conditions. Prompt diagnosis is advised.

Maintenance and prevention

Preventive steps can reduce the likelihood of PS warnings and help you catch issues early.

• Regularly check and maintain the appropriate power steering fluid level and condition (for hydraulic systems). Replace fluid as recommended by Toyota.


• Inspect drive belts for wear and replace as needed if your model uses a belt-driven PS pump.


• Keep the 12V battery and charging system in good shape; EPS relies on stable voltage for consistent performance.


• Address dashboard warnings promptly and follow the service plan in your owner's manual; early diagnostics can prevent further damage.

Proactive maintenance helps ensure reliable steering assist and reduces chances of an unexpected PS light.

Model-specific notes

Some Toyota models label the warning differently. Look for symbols such as a steering wheel with an exclamation mark, "P/S," or "EPS." In hybrids and newer models, EPS is the standard, and a warning may accompany a message about steering assist or system fault. Always consult your owner's manual for the exact symbol and recommended service intervals for your year and trim.

Summary

The PS light on a Toyota signals a problem with the power steering system—either hydraulic (P/S) or electronic (EPS). It can be caused by fluid issues, pump or belt failure, electrical faults, sensor or software problems, or mechanical steering issues. If the light comes on, safely reduce speed, check fluid and voltage where applicable, and obtain a professional diagnostic to protect steering performance and safety. If you share your specific Toyota model and year, I can tailor the diagnostic steps and symbols to match your vehicle.

Can you drive with a PS light on?

No, it is not safe to drive with the "PS" (power steering) light on because it indicates a system malfunction that can make steering difficult or even cause the system to fail completely. You should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and either check the power steering fluid level or try a system reset. If the problem continues, have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic immediately.
 
This video explains the risks of driving with the power steering light on and what to do when it illuminates: 55sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 8, 2022
What to do when the PS light comes on

• Pull over safely: Find a safe spot to pull over and turn off the engine. 
• Check for hydraulic systems: If your car has a hydraulic system, wait for the engine to cool, then check the power steering fluid level in its reservoir. If it's low, add the correct fluid and secure the cap. 
• Try a reset for electronic systems: For a car with an electronic power steering (EPS) system, turning the car off and then restarting it may resolve the issue if it was a temporary computer glitch. 
• Get a professional diagnosis: If the light stays on or if you have a hydraulic leak, you will need a mechanic to diagnose and fix the underlying problem. 

Why you shouldn't drive

• Loss of assist: The light indicates the power steering assist has been disabled, which makes steering significantly harder. 
• Increased effort: Turning the wheel will require much more physical force, especially at low speeds or when stopped. 
• Safety risk: Difficulty steering is a major safety hazard that increases the risk of accidents. Driving without proper steering control is dangerous. 

You can watch this video to see how to check the power steering fluid level: 54sCar ManufacturingYouTube · Apr 10, 2025

What is the PS warning light on a Toyota?

The power steering warning light looks like a steering wheel icon, often with an exclamation mark or 'PS' (for 'power steering') inside it. The steering wheel symbol may also appear with wavy lines or an arrow near it, indicating a potential issue with the power steering system.

How expensive is it to fix electric power steering?

On average, replacing your power steering pump can cost between $500 and $900, but it's essential to avoid more serious damage to the power steering system. Replacing the pump yourself can save you about $300 and significantly lower the total cost of this repair.

How do I fix my PS light on my car?

Below are the key steps to help you fix power steering warning light:

1. Step 1: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level (Hydraulic Systems)
2. Step 2: Inspect for Leaks.
3. Step 3: Check the Power Steering Belt (Hydraulic Systems)
4. Step 4: Test the Electrical Connections (Electric Power Steering Systems)
5. Step 5: Reset the System.