What does it mean when the EPS light is on? Can I continue driving?
3 Answers
EPS stands for Electronic Power Steering, which uses an electric motor to assist the driver in steering. The components of EPS vary slightly between different vehicles, but generally include a torque (steering) sensor, electronic control unit, motor, reducer, mechanical steering gear, and battery power source. When the EPS light illuminates, it indicates a fault in the electric power steering system. Symptoms may include heavy steering, unusual noises when turning, steering wheel vibration, or poor steering wheel return capability. It is recommended to promptly visit an auto repair shop for inspection. In such cases, you should safely stop the vehicle as soon as possible and contact a 4S dealership or professional auto repair service, preferably arranging for a tow truck. Unlike hydraulic power steering systems where the hydraulic pump operates continuously during engine operation (increasing fuel consumption by 3%-5%), EPS uses battery power and an electric motor, operating independently from the engine with minimal direct fuel consumption. EPS eliminates hydraulic fluid leakage issues associated with hydraulic power steering systems. Being electronically controlled, EPS is environmentally friendly with lower fuel consumption. Its compact design integrates major components, requiring fewer parts than hydraulic systems (no oil pump, pipes, control valves, or reservoir), making installation easier and more efficient. While hydraulic systems typically operate at 60%-70% efficiency, EPS can achieve over 90% efficiency.
The EPS light indicates a problem with the electric power steering system, most commonly caused by sensor failure, circuit issues, or insufficient battery voltage. When the system loses assistance, steering will become very heavy, especially dangerous at high speeds. Personally, I think it should not be ignored. If the car can still move, it is recommended to drive slowly at low speed to the nearest repair shop for inspection. However, if the steering wheel is too heavy to turn, you must pull over immediately and call for a tow truck. By the way, this issue is also related to weather. Low temperatures in winter can easily degrade battery performance, triggering the EPS warning light. Remember to check steering system components during regular maintenance to avoid similar sudden failures—after all, driving safety comes first.
The EPS warning light is on, indicating that the power steering may completely fail, making the steering unusually heavy and turning particularly difficult, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. I recommend that if you encounter this situation, you must judge carefully: if the vehicle is still controllable, driving at low speed for a short distance to a repair shop is acceptable, but never drive long distances or on highways. In practice, this situation is often related to a aging battery or loose connectors. After parking, first check the battery voltage or use a multimeter to test if the fuse is intact. Go to a professional shop as soon as possible to troubleshoot the problem, don’t delay, otherwise the issue may affect other systems like brakes.
