What is the fault when the EPS light is on? Can I continue driving?
2 Answers
EPS stands for Electronic Power Steering, which uses the power generated by an electric motor to assist the driver in power steering. The components of EPS vary slightly between different car models, but they are generally similar. Typically, it consists of a torque (steering) sensor, an electronic control unit, an electric motor, a reducer, a mechanical steering gear, and a battery power source. When the EPS light is on, it indicates a fault in the electric power steering system. Symptoms may include heavy steering, unusual steering noises, steering wheel vibration, poor steering wheel return ability, etc. It is recommended to promptly visit an auto repair shop for inspection and repair. At this time, you should stop the car as soon as possible under safe conditions and call for assistance from a 4S shop or a professional auto repair shop. It is best to have the car towed away. When the engine is running, the hydraulic pump is always in operation, and the hydraulic steering system increases the overall engine fuel consumption by 3% to 5%. In contrast, EPS uses the battery as the energy source and the motor as the power component, allowing it to operate independently of the engine. EPS hardly consumes any engine fuel directly. Therefore, EPS does not have the issue of hydraulic fluid leakage found in hydraulic power steering systems. EPS is electronically controlled, causing almost no environmental pollution and further reducing fuel consumption. Installation is convenient—the main components of EPS can be integrated together, making it easy to arrange. Compared to hydraulic power steering systems, EPS reduces many components, eliminating the need for oil pumps, pipes, pressure and flow control valves, oil reservoirs, etc. With fewer components, assembly is more convenient and time-saving. Efficiency is high—the efficiency of hydraulic power steering systems is generally between 60% and 70%, while EPS has a higher efficiency, reaching over 90%.
The EPS light on my car has come on a few times, which is definitely not a good thing. EPS stands for Electronic Power Steering, and the light indicates potential steering issues, such as sensor failure or a faulty control module. You can still drive, but the steering wheel becomes extremely heavy, making turns difficult and increasing the danger, especially at high speeds. The last time this happened to me was on my way home from work. I immediately drove slowly to a safe spot and stopped, not daring to take any risks. After inspection, it turned out to be caused by a loose battery connection. My advice is to get it checked at a repair shop as soon as possible. Don’t underestimate it—to prevent similar issues, regularly inspect the wiring and clean the sensor areas. Safety should always come first.
