Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light

Can I keep driving?

What to do right now

1. 1Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands, as turning will require substantially more physical effort.
2. 2Slow down smoothly and pull over safely into a car park or onto a wide hard shoulder.
3. 3Switch off the engine, wait two minutes, and restart to see if the computer clears a temporary electrical glitch.
4. 4Do not continue driving at motorway speeds if the steering wheel feels abnormally heavy or stiff.

Likely causes

Most likely first.

1. Likely

   Weak 12-volt battery or failing alternator

   Electric power steering systems draw massive electrical current from the battery and charging system. If system voltage drops below a preset threshold, the computer shuts down steering assist to protect other electronics.

2. Possible

   Faulty steering angle or torque sensor

   The steering computer relies on internal sensors to measure how hard and how far you turn the wheel. If these sensors give erratic readings, the system disables assistance and illuminates the warning light.

3. Possible

   Low fluid level or hydraulic leak

   Older cars and electro-hydraulic models use fluid pressure to aid steering. A leak in a pipe, cooler line, or steering rack starves the pump and triggers the light.

4. Possible

   Failed electric steering motor or module

   The electric motor mounted to the steering column or rack can overheat or suffer internal electrical short circuits. When this happens, the control module cuts power entirely.

5. Rare

   Blown fuse or damaged wiring harness

   A high-amperage fuse protecting the steering motor can blow under high load. Corroded wiring connectors near the steering rack can also sever communication with the car computer.

What you can check yourself

Park somewhere safe and level, engine off, before you start.

1. 1

   Perform an ignition restart

   Stop in a safe place, turn off the ignition, remove the key or power down completely, and wait two minutes before restarting. If the light goes out and steering returns to normal, the system likely suffered a momentary voltage dip.

2. 2

   Check battery terminal connections

   Open the bonnet and inspect the 12-volt battery terminals. Ensure both metal clamps are clean, tightly fastened, and free of powdery white corrosion that could restrict electrical current.

3. 3

   Inspect power steering fluid reservoir

   Consult your owner handbook to see if your car uses hydraulic fluid. If a reservoir is present, check that the clear fluid sits between the minimum and maximum fill lines on the side of the plastic tank.

4. 4

   Check tyre pressures

   Inspect all four tyres for severe under-inflation or punctures. Heavily deflated front tyres create massive friction against the road, placing excessive strain on the electric steering motor and triggering safety warnings.

Typical prices in Ireland (€) and the UK (£), from an independent garage up to a main dealer. The total repair bill depends heavily on whether the motor is integrated into the full steering column or can be renewed as an individual component.

When to go to a garage

• The steering wheel becomes extremely heavy or locks up while moving.
• The warning light remains illuminated after restarting the engine.
• You hear grinding, whining, or clicking noises whenever you turn the wheel.
• You spot fluid dripping onto the ground beneath the engine bay.

Questions drivers ask

Test rules here are for the National Car Test in Ireland (NCT) and the MOT in the UK. Elsewhere, check the regulations of your own country or state before going for a vehicle test.