What is the steering wheel icon on Subaru?
In Subaru vehicles, the steering wheel icon on the dashboard usually indicates a problem with the electric power steering system (EPS) or a temporary loss of steering assist. This warning light can appear in different forms depending on the model and year, but its core message is that your steering may be operating without full support from the EPS system. If you see it, take note of how the steering feels and respond accordingly.
What the symbol looks like and when you might see it
The steering wheel icon is commonly a stylized steering wheel, sometimes accompanied by an exclamation point or a related warning symbol. In many Subaru models, the light can illuminate alone or alongside other warning lights, and it may flash briefly during a system self-check when you start the vehicle. The exact appearance can vary by model year, but the underlying meaning is tied to the electric power steering system and its ability to provide assist.
Common meanings you might see
Below are the most frequent interpretations of the steering wheel icon in Subaru models. Note that the exact wording or indicator style may differ by year and trim.
- Power Steering System Malfunction (EPS fault): The electric power steering system has detected a fault and may reduce or cut steering assist. You may notice heavier steering, especially at low speeds.
- Electric Power Steering Temporarily Unavailable: The EPS system is disabled for safety, often due to a fault or a related electrical issue. You can usually still drive, but steering effort may be greater.
- Battery or Electrical System Issue: A weak or failing battery or charging system can trigger the EPS warning light, since EPS relies on stable electrical power.
- Startup Self-Test or Temporary Indicator: In some models, the light may appear briefly during startup and then go off if the system passes its self-check; if it stays on, service is likely needed.
Concluding the list, remember that a persistent steering wheel warning should not be ignored. If the icon remains illuminated after startup or you notice noticeably tougher steering, plan a service visit promptly to avoid potential safety risks.
What to do if the icon lights up
If the steering wheel icon appears while you’re driving, follow these steps to stay safe and diagnose the issue without delaying service.
- Safely pull over when you can do so quickly and smoothly. Turn off the engine, wait a moment, then restart the vehicle to see if the light clears.
- Check for obvious issues, such as a loose battery connection or signs of an electrical fault. If you notice corrosion, loose cables, or a visibly damaged battery, address those if you’re capable and safe to do so.
- Be mindful of steering effort. If steering feels noticeably heavier, avoid high-speed driving and sharp maneuvers, and seek roadside assistance or a tow to a Subaru service center.
- Have the vehicle diagnosed. Schedule a service appointment or contact Subaru Roadside Assistance to run a diagnostic check. EPS faults typically require a technical inspection and possible module/software updates or part replacement.
Concluding: A steering system warning is a safety signal. If the light persists after a restart or if you feel reduced steering assist, arrange a service visit as soon as possible to prevent a potential loss of steering at inopportune moments.
How Subaru dealers diagnose and fix EPS problems
When you bring a Subaru with an EPS warning to a mechanic, technicians will typically perform a diagnostic scan to read fault codes from the EPS controller, inspect electrical connections, check the 12-volt battery health, and assess steering torque sensor data. Depending on the model and fault codes, fixes can range from software updates and wiring repairs to replacing a faulty EPS motor, torque sensor, or related components. In some cases, a temporary software reset may clear the warning, but a persistent fault will require a repair or part replacement.
Summary
The steering wheel icon on Subaru dashboards generally signals a problem with the electric power steering system or its electrical supply. It can indicate a fault in the EPS, temporary unavailability of steering assist, or a startup self-check that flags underlying issues. If the light is on or the steering feels heavier than usual, safely reduce speed, avoid aggressive maneuvers, and seek a professional diagnosis from a Subaru service center. Timely attention helps maintain steering performance and overall vehicle safety.
Can I drive with the steering wheel light on?
It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with the red power steering warning light on. If the power steering system fails, the car will become difficult to steer, making it potentially dangerous to drive.
How to turn on lane assist on a Subaru?
Lane Keep Assist in Subaru Vehicles
To enable Lane Centering in your Subaru, simply turn on cruise control and set your preferred speed. EyeSight cameras and sensors detect lane markings and automatically make slight steering adjustments to help keep you on your set path.
What is the steering wheel symbol on a Subaru?
The white steering wheel icon is the lane centering. If it says off, it may just be indicating that it can't see the lane lines.
What does the steering wheel icon mean?
A steering wheel icon on a dashboard usually indicates a power steering system problem, and it can also mean Lane Following Assist is active depending on the color and specific car model. A warning light, often red or yellow, signals a fault that makes steering harder, and you should get it checked immediately by a professional. A green or orange steering wheel light can signify that an advanced driver-assistance system like Lane Following Assist is on, helping to keep the car centered in its lane.
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When the steering wheel icon is a warning light (red or yellow)
- Meaning: This means there is an issue with your power steering system, which could make it very difficult to steer.
- Possible causes:
- Low power steering fluid (for hydraulic systems)
- A leak in the hydraulic system
- Failure of the power steering pump
- A broken drive belt (for hydraulic systems)
- Electrical issues, like a sensor or wiring problem (for electric systems)
- What to do:
- Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
- Check your owner's manual to see if you can safely add power steering fluid if needed, but be aware that this is likely a temporary fix.
- Have a professional inspect the vehicle, especially if the light stays on or comes back on after adding fluid.
When the steering wheel icon is green or orange
- Meaning: This indicates a driver-assistance feature is active.
- Possible causes:
- Lane Following Assist (LFA): This system is active and helping to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
- Driver attention system: Some systems may show the light if a driver-facing camera detects that you are looking away from the road for too long.
- What to do:
- This is a normal indication that the system is working. The light will typically change color or turn off when the system is not active, such as when you steer the wheel yourself.
