What does it mean when the power steering warning light comes on?
3 Answers
The power steering warning light comes on because there is a fault in the power steering system. This may be accompanied by issues such as heavy steering, unusual steering noises, steering wheel vibration, or poor steering wheel return ability. If this occurs, it is recommended to seek immediate repairs, as continued driving can pose significant safety risks. All vehicles are equipped with a power steering system, which uses external force to allow the driver to turn the steering wheel with less effort. There are three common types of power steering systems in vehicles: electro-hydraulic power steering, mechanical hydraulic power steering, and electric power steering. Most modern vehicles use electric power steering systems. Electric power steering systems can adjust the steering ratio and steering effort, making vehicles equipped with this system more suitable for discerning drivers.
That day when I was driving out, the power steering warning light suddenly came on, and the steering wheel became as heavy as a rock. I quickly pulled over and found the power steering fluid reservoir was almost empty. I’ve got experience with this—it’s either due to aging hoses leaking or the seals in the power steering pump failing. Especially on rainy days, the leaks become more obvious. Nowadays, car steering systems are basically divided into two types: older cars use hydraulic power steering, which acts up when there’s low fluid or a loose belt; newer cars mostly have electric power steering, and if the light comes on, it’s likely due to a faulty torque sensor or a control module error. The worst part is when the steering fails, you mustn’t be driving fast. Last time, my friend nearly got into trouble when this happened on the highway—now he only goes to authorized dealerships for such electrical issues.
Three vehicles in our fleet have encountered the power steering warning light coming on, each with different circumstances. Xiao Li's car had a poor connection in the steering angle sensor, Xiao Zhang's car was found to have a blown fuse, and my own car had a jammed connection at the steering column last time the light came on. For older vehicles with hydraulic power steering, it's crucial to check the fluid level and pump pressure, as well as the belt tension. For cars with electronic power steering, the causes of faults are more complex, and it's usually necessary to connect to a computer to read the fault codes for an accurate diagnosis. Once, while driving in extreme winter weather at minus twenty degrees, the power steering system froze and stopped working entirely, so it's especially important to pay attention to this light in harsh weather conditions. If the light comes on, it's advisable to slow down and find a safe place to stop as soon as possible, rather than pushing through.
