What is the steering light on a Honda Fit?

The steering light on a Honda Fit is the Electric Power Steering (EPS) warning indicator. When it illuminates, there is a fault in the EPS system or the system has been disengaged, which can reduce or remove steering assist.

In more detail, the indicator typically appears as a steering wheel icon on the dashboard and may be accompanied by the letters EPS or an exclamation mark. It can be triggered by issues ranging from a failing EPS motor or torque sensor to electrical problems with the battery, alternator, or wiring. If the light stays on while you drive, you should have the car inspected promptly, because reduced or lost steering assist affects handling and safety.

What the steering light indicates

Common causes of the EPS warning in a Honda Fit include the following:

• Faulty EPS motor or control logic


• Problems with the torque/steering angle sensor

These are typical reasons the steering warning might come on. A professional diagnostic is required to confirm the exact cause and perform any necessary repairs.

What to do if the light is on

If the EPS warning appears while driving, take the following steps to stay safe and protect the vehicle:

1. Note whether the light is steady or flashing. A steady light indicates a fault; a flashing light can signal a more urgent condition.


2. Continue driving only at moderate speeds and avoid aggressive steering or high-load maneuvers, since steering assist may be reduced or unavailable.


3. Check for other electrical symptoms, such as dimming lights or battery warning indicators, which could point to charging issues.


4. Minimize the use of accessories that draw power from the battery and seek a safe place to stop if steering feels noticeably heavier.


5. Have the EPS system diagnosed by a Honda dealer or a qualified mechanic with the appropriate diagnostic tools. The repair may involve the EPS motor, sensor, wiring, or control module.

If the light is accompanied by unusual noises, hard steering, or if you lose steering assist completely, stop driving and arrange roadside assistance. Do not ignore the warning, as EPS failure can compromise steering control.

How Electric Power Steering works in a Honda Fit

In the Honda Fit, EPS uses an electric motor mounted to assist steering based on input from the steering column’s angle sensor and a torque sensor. The EPS control unit determines how much assist to provide depending on vehicle speed and driver input. When the system detects a fault, it can switch to a safe mode or disable assist to prevent damage, triggering the warning light on the dash. Electrical faults, sensor failures, or motor problems are common culprits behind the illumination.

Summary

The steering light on a Honda Fit signals a problem with the Electric Power Steering system, potentially reducing or eliminating steering assist. If it comes on, you should treat it as a warning and have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician. While driving with a temporary loss of EPS is possible at reduced speed, driving with the warning should be limited, and repairs should be performed promptly to restore normal steering performance and maintain safety.

Can I still drive with the power steering light on?

No, it is not safe to drive with the power steering light on, as it indicates a fault that makes the steering heavier and harder to maneuver. You should pull over as soon as it is safe, and if possible, have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring the light can lead to more damage, a complete power steering failure, or accidents. 
You can watch this video to learn about the power steering warning light and what to do when it appears: 56sCarTechHomeYouTube · Feb 26, 2025
Immediate actions

• Pull over safely: Find a safe location to stop the vehicle as soon as you can. 
• Avoid driving: Do not continue driving longer than necessary. If steering becomes extremely stiff or unresponsive, pull over immediately. 
• Check fluid levels (if applicable): If you have a hydraulic system, pull over and check the power steering fluid reservoir. Low fluid can cause the light to come on. 
• Refill fluid: If the fluid is low, add the correct type of fluid for your car. However, be aware that a low level often means there is a leak that needs to be fixed. 
• Restart the engine: After checking the fluid, turn the car off and then back on to see if the light turns off. 

Why you shouldn't ignore the light

• Difficulty steering: The warning light means you have lost power assist, making the steering wheel much harder to turn. 
• Increased risk of accidents: The increased effort required to steer can make it difficult to react to events, increasing the risk of an accident. 
• Risk of further damage: Driving with a fault can worsen the problem and lead to more costly repairs. 
• It's a safety feature: The light is there to alert you that the system is not working correctly and needs attention to ensure safe operation. 

What to do next

• Get it checked: If the light stays on after refilling the fluid or if you have an electric power steering system, have a qualified technician inspect the vehicle. 
• Arrange for towing: If the problem persists, it's safest to have your car towed to a repair shop. 

What would cause the power steering light to come on?

Your power steering light is on due to a problem in the steering system, which could be a low fluid level (for hydraulic systems), a leak, a failing pump, or an electrical issue with the steering motor, sensors, or wiring (for electric systems). To start, check the power steering fluid level, if you have a hydraulic system. If the fluid is low, topping it off may temporarily fix the issue, but it's important to have the system inspected for a leak. For electric power steering (EPS), the cause is likely an electrical fault, and you can try restarting the car, but a professional diagnosis is recommended.
 
Possible causes 
This video explains the possible causes of the power steering warning light, including low fluid, faulty pumps, and electrical issues: 57sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 8, 2022

• Hydraulic Power Steering:
  • Low power steering fluid: This is a common cause, often due to a leak in the system. 
  • Power steering pump failure: The pump may be failing, which can cause steering to become difficult. 
  • Worn or broken belt: The belt that drives the pump may be loose, worn, or broken. 
• Electric Power Steering (EPS):
  • Electrical fault: This could be a problem with wiring, the steering angle sensor, or the electric motor. 
  • Vehicle computer glitch: A temporary electronic issue can trigger the warning light. 
  • Alternator or battery issue: A low-voltage problem can affect the EPS system. 

What to do 
This video demonstrates how to reset the power steering warning light by checking the fluid level: 58sCar Mechanic USAYouTube · Sep 11, 2025

1. Pull over safely: Stop the car as soon as you can to avoid potential damage and for your safety, as steering can become difficult. 
2. Check the fluid (if hydraulic): If your car has a hydraulic system, locate the power steering fluid reservoir and check the level. If it is low, add the correct type of fluid as a temporary fix, but get the system inspected for a leak. 
3. Try a system reset: For both hydraulic and electric systems, turn the car off and restart it to see if the light goes away. A simple electronic glitch may be the cause. 
4. Inspect the belt (if hydraulic): With the engine off, check the condition of the serpentine belt to see if it looks worn, cracked, or loose. 
5. Seek professional help: If the light stays on after these steps, have a mechanic diagnose the issue. For EPS systems, a professional diagnosis is often necessary. 

What is the steering warning light on a Honda?

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. Have your car inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

What is the power steering warning light on a Honda Fit?

Symbolized by a two-spoke steering wheel next to an exclamation mark, this light means that there could be a problem with the electric power steering, making turning more difficult.