What would cause my EPS light to come on?

The EPS warning light indicates a fault in the electric power steering system, which could reduce or remove steering assist. It can stem from sensor, motor, wiring, or electrical supply issues, and it warrants prompt inspection.

Common triggers for the EPS warning light

Common EPS warning lights are triggered by faults in the steering angle sensor, EPS motor, electrical connections, power supply, or control modules. The following are typical culprits you may encounter:

• Faulty steering angle/torque sensor


• EPS motor or motor driver failure


• Damaged or loose electrical connectors, wiring, or ground points


• CAN bus or communication issues between steering components and the ECU


• Low battery voltage or a failing alternator affecting the EPS control unit


• Blown fuses or faulty relays in the power steering circuit


• Software glitches or outdated ECU calibration


• Mechanical wear or damage in the steering rack or linkage

In some cases, the system will still provide some assist or revert to a reduced mode; the light may stay on until the fault is cleared or repaired.

How to diagnose and respond to an EPS warning

To understand what's causing the EPS light, a structured diagnostic approach helps differentiate simple issues from deeper mechanical problems:

1. Check the vehicle’s electrical basics: battery health, charging system, and related fuses/relays in the EPS circuit.


2. Use an OBD-II scanner to pull diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to EPS, steering angle sensors, EPS motor, or CAN bus communication.


3. Inspect steering-column and under-dash wiring for loose connections, corrosion, or damaged insulation; verify good ground points.


4. Assess steering feel and behavior: heavy steering or intermittent assist points to sensor or motor faults.


5. Consider software updates or recalibration for the steering angle sensor if the codes indicate a sensor fault or miscalibration.

These steps help determine whether the issue is a simple electrical fault, a sensor fault, or a more serious mechanical problem. If the light persists or steering assist is lost, seek professional service promptly.

Safety considerations and next steps

Don’t ignore the EPS light. While some situations allow continued driving with reduced or intermittent assist, others may indicate a fault that could impair steering control. If you encounter the light:

• Safely pull over and assess the situation; if steering feels unusually heavy or unresponsive, stop driving.


• Check for obvious issues like a weak battery or loose electrical connections, but avoid attempting repairs on the steering system yourself.


• Have the vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible; EPS faults can be intermittent or progressive.

Prompt diagnosis helps prevent potential steering loss and avoids further damage to electrical components.

Summary

The EPS warning light signals a fault in the electric power steering system, with causes ranging from faulty sensors and motors to electrical supply problems or ECU software issues. A systematic approach—code reading, power and wiring checks, and potential recalibration—guides diagnosis and repair. If the light stays on or steering feels heavy, seek professional service promptly to maintain safe vehicle operation.

Key takeaways

• EPS faults can arise from sensors, motors, wiring, and communications.


• Diagnostics typically start with a code scan, followed by power checks and visual wiring inspection.


• Driving with a suspected EPS fault can be risky; prioritize safety and professional diagnosis.

How to fix EPS warning light?

5 seconds. Turn the steering wheel to the full left lock position and apply force for approximately. 5 seconds. Return the steering wheel to the straightforward. Position turn off the ignition.

How much does it cost to fix an EPS light?

The cost to replace electric power steering (EPS) can vary significantly, from around $500 to over $1,700, depending on the specific component that needs replacement and your vehicle. A new power steering pump may cost between $300-$600 for parts, with labor adding another $150-$500, while a full electric power steering rack or module replacement will be more expensive, potentially costing over $1,700 when parts and labor are included. Factors like your vehicle's make and model, part type (new vs. used), and labor rates all influence the final price. 
This video explains the potential causes and costs of electric power steering issues: 58sLearnToDIY360YouTube · Dec 9, 2024
Factors that influence cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury or specialty vehicles often have higher parts and labor costs. 
• Parts: New, OEM (original equipment manufacturer), or rebuilt parts will have different price points. A used pump might be cheaper upfront but could have a shorter lifespan. 
• Labor: This is a major factor, as some repairs are more complex and time-consuming than others. Labor charges can sometimes be more than the part itself. 
• Need for additional parts: The problem may not be isolated. You might need a new power steering fluid or other related parts like hoses, seals, or a battery, which will increase the total cost. 

You can watch this video to learn how to reset the electric power steering light, which might save you from a costly repair: 56sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Jun 17, 2024
Replacement component costs

• Power Steering Pump: Approximately $500–$900. 
• Power Steering Rack/Module: Anywhere from $1,700–$1,900, including parts, labor, and a wheel alignment. 
• Hoses and fluid: Minimal cost, usually only a few hundred dollars. 

What are common EPS problems?

Electric power steering (EPS) systems can encounter several issues that affect your vehicle's handling. Common problems include sensor malfunctions and wiring failures, which often lead to stiffness or loss of assist.

Is it safe to drive with an EPS light on?

No, it is not safe to drive with the EPS (Electronic Power Steering) light on because it indicates a fault in the steering system, which can make the vehicle harder to steer and increase the risk of an accident. You should pull over to a safe location as soon as possible, avoid driving further if steering becomes extremely difficult, and have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. 
This video explains the meaning of the EPS warning light and its potential impact on steering: 54sCar ManufacturingYouTube · Apr 10, 2025
What to do when the EPS light is on

• Pull over immediately: Find a safe place to stop your vehicle as soon as it is practical. 
• Assess the steering: Check if steering is noticeably harder or if the vehicle pulls to one side. If it feels unresponsive, avoid driving and have it towed to a professional. 
• Check for basic issues (if you have a hydraulic system): While this is less common with EPS, for vehicles with hydraulic power steering, check the fluid level. If it's low, top it off and look for leaks. 
• Do not continue driving long distances: Driving with the light on can cause further damage to the steering system and is a safety risk, especially at higher speeds or during sudden maneuvers. 
• Seek professional help: Take your vehicle to a mechanic. They can use a diagnostic tool to read the error code and identify the exact problem. The repair could be as simple as a sensor reset or could require replacing a faulty component. 

This video demonstrates how to check power steering fluid and what to look for during inspection: 58sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Feb 5, 2025