Power Steering Light: What It Means and What to Do
The Power Steering Light means the power steering assist system has a fault and steering may become heavy, especially at low speeds.
- What it looks like
- A steering wheel with an exclamation point beside it, or the letters EPS.
- Color
- Red or amber/yellow depending on the vehicle and the severity of the fault; check your owner's manual, since symbols and colors vary by manufacturer.
Also called: EPS light, electric power steering light, steering wheel exclamation point light, power steering warning light
Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
Why the power steering light comes on
Most modern vehicles use electric power steering, where a motor on the steering column or rack adds assist based on a torque sensor and vehicle speed. Hydraulic systems use a belt-driven or electric pump and fluid. The warning lights when the control module detects a sensor, motor, voltage, or communication problem; some vehicles also reduce assist if the motor overheats from repeated full-lock steering.
Common causes
- Low system voltage from a weak battery or charging fault
- Electric power steering motor or torque sensor failure
- Loss of communication with the power steering control module
- Low power steering fluid or a leak in hydraulic systems
- Broken drive belt on belt-driven hydraulic pumps
- Temporary overheating of the assist motor after heavy maneuvering
What to do when the power steering light comes on
- Grip the wheel firmly and slow down; allow more room for turns.
- Pull over safely, turn off the engine, wait a minute, and restart; some temporary faults clear on restart.
- If the battery light is also on, have the charging system checked, since low voltage reduces assist.
- On hydraulic systems, check the fluid level and look for leaks or a broken belt.
- Have the steering module codes read with a capable scanner.
- Avoid long trips until the system is repaired.
Symbols and colors vary by manufacturer; your owner’s manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Related OBD-II codes
Power Steering Light FAQ
What does the power steering light mean?
The Power Steering Light means the power steering assist system has a fault and steering may become heavy, especially at low speeds.
Can I keep driving with the power steering light on?
You can still steer manually, but it may take much more effort, particularly when parking. Drive cautiously at lower speeds to a shop, and pull over if steering becomes very heavy or unpredictable.
Can I drive with the power steering light on?
Usually yes for a short distance, because the mechanical steering link remains. Steering will be heavier, so drive slowly and get it repaired.
Why does my power steering light come on and then go away?
Low voltage at startup, a loose connection, or a sensor glitch can trigger it temporarily. Recurring lights should be diagnosed before the system fails completely.
Does a weak battery affect electric power steering?
Yes. Electric steering motors draw significant current, and many systems reduce or shut off assist when voltage drops.
Other dashboard warning lights
Sources
- 49 CFR 571.101 (FMVSS No. 101) — Controls and displays: telltale symbols and colors
- NHTSA — Check for open safety recalls by VIN
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. When in doubt, stop in a safe place and follow your owner’s manual.