What Causes the Steering Wheel Light to Illuminate?
2 Answers
Steering wheel warning light comes on due to excessive air in the power steering system causing abnormal vehicle steering, or foreign objects in the steering hydraulic lines leading to jamming of the steering pump flow control valve. Solutions for steering wheel warning light illumination are as follows: 1. Component inspection: Check the steering gear, steering pump control valve, oil reservoir filter, steering fluid, and clean the entire power steering system; inspect tire pressure. Refill if underinflated; examine all connection points of oil pipes and tighten all connections. 2. Component replacement: Promptly replace oil pipes, power steering pump, or power steering gear.
I've also experienced the steering wheel light coming on. I was driving on the highway when it suddenly lit up, which scared me into slowing down immediately. Later, during inspection, it turned out to be a loose steering angle sensor caused by poor connector contact. The mechanic said this issue is quite common, especially after driving on bumpy roads or aggressive driving. Additionally, faults in the power steering motor or control module can also trigger the light, making the steering wheel unusually heavy. Unstable battery voltage can also be a factor since electric power steering relies heavily on a stable power supply. If the light comes on, avoid forcing the drive—slow down, pull over to check, or seek professional help.