What does EPS mean when it appears on the car?
2 Answers
When EPS appears on the car, it indicates that the EPS system is turned off or malfunctioning. EPS stands for Electronic Power Steering, and a fault in this system may result in the loss of power steering assistance. In such cases, the steering wheel may suddenly become heavier, which could be problematic in emergency situations requiring quick maneuvers. Vehicle power steering systems are generally either electronic or hydraulic. Electronic power steering is achieved through an electric motor, while hydraulic power steering involves a hydraulic fluid reservoir in the engine compartment and a power steering pump. The power steering pump is connected to the engine via a belt. If the belt breaks or the power steering pump is damaged, the power steering function may be lost, causing the steering wheel to become heavier.
As an experienced mechanic who has worked on cars for most of my life, I can tell you that when the EPS indicator light comes on, it usually means there's a problem with the Electric Power Steering system. This indicates that the steering assist may be weakened, making the steering wheel feel very heavy and difficult to turn while driving. Common causes include a faulty steering torque sensor, poor contact in the power supply circuit, or a blown fuse. I remember one customer who kept driving with the EPS light on and almost hit a wall while turning. Later, we found out it was due to an internal short circuit in the ECU controller. So, I recommend you pull over immediately and check if the relevant fuses in the fuse box are intact. If any are blown, try replacing them with new ones. If the problem persists, go to a professional repair shop right away to use a diagnostic tool to read the error codes—don't attempt DIY fixes. Steering failure is extremely dangerous and significantly increases the risk of accidents. Safety should always come first.
