Power Steering Warning Light
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the power steering warning light means the power steering system has a fault and steering assistance is reduced or lost, so steering takes much more effort. You can still steer, but it is heavy, especially at low speed and when parking. Drive carefully to a safe place or a shop.
Get it checked soon
Looks like: A steering wheel with an exclamation mark.
What to do
- Allow for much heavier steering and slow down.
- Once stopped safely, restarting the engine sometimes clears a temporary electric steering fault.
- If it returns, get it checked. On cars with hydraulic steering, check the power steering fluid level.
Common causes
- Low battery or system voltage affecting electric steering
- Electric steering motor or sensor fault
- Low power steering fluid on hydraulic systems
- A slipping or broken drive belt on belt-driven pumps
How to turn it off
It turns off when the fault clears or is repaired.
Frequently asked
What does the power steering warning light mean?
GarageDex's warning light guide shows the power steering warning light means the power steering system has a fault and steering assistance is reduced or lost, so steering takes much more effort. You can still steer, but it is heavy, especially at low speed and when parking. Drive carefully to a safe place or a shop.
Can I drive with the power steering warning light on?
You can still steer, but it is heavy, especially at low speed and when parking. Drive carefully to a safe place or a shop.
What causes the power steering warning light?
The common causes: Low battery or system voltage affecting electric steering; Electric steering motor or sensor fault; Low power steering fluid on hydraulic systems; A slipping or broken drive belt on belt-driven pumps.
How do I turn off the power steering warning light?
It turns off when the fault clears or is repaired.
Related guides
Other warning lights
General guidance for mainstream vehicles - your owner's manual is the authority for your car. Reviewed by the GarageDex editorial team.