Power steering warning light – all you need to know

If the power steering warning light appears on your car's dashboard then it means the system has developed a potentially serious fault.  You should not ignore a power steering warning light - it could increase your chances of experiencing a costly breakdown.  

Read our latest car maintenance guide to find out what you should do if you see this warning symbol on your car's dashboard. 

The power steering warning light looks like a steering wheel icon, often with an exclamation mark or ‘PS’ (for ‘power steering’) inside it.

The steering wheel symbol may also appear with wavy lines or an arrow near it, indicating a potential issue with the power steering system.

Here is what a power steering warning light will look like on your dashboard:

There are several reasons why your power steering warning light may be on:

• Low power steering fluid: If the fluid level is low, the system may not have enough pressure to operate properly. Refer to your vehicle handbook and check the fluid level and top it up if needed
• The power steering hydraulic pump may not be working properly
• The auxiliary drive belt may have broken: A broken belt will stop the pump from running and may also affect other systems such as the charging and cooling systems
• Electrical problems: Many modern cars have electric power steering (also known as EPS). These are not hydraulic and do not have a pump or a fluid reservoir. If there’s a malfunction in any of the electronic components, sensors or the wiring, it can trigger the EPS light to illuminate

If your power steering warning light is on, it indicates there is an issue with the system – and should be checked as soon as possible. You should not drive the vehicle until the issue has been investigated and fixed. 

If your power steering warning light is on, the best course of action is to contact a mobile mechanic. Alternatively, you can arrange to have your vehicle to transported to a trusted local garage.

Both a mobile mechanic and a local garage will investigate the fault and take the necessary actions to repair the fault. 

• Car dashboard warning lights and symbols
• MOT advisories – your complete guide 
• What to do if your car is leaking

Here are some signs to look out for when the power steering develops a fault:

• Warning light on dashboard 
• Difficulty steering – especially at low speed or when parking
• High pitched noises when turning 
• Leaking fluids under the engine

It is not recommended to drive a vehicle with the red power steering warning light on. If the power steering system fails, the car will become difficult to steer, making it potentially dangerous to drive.

The EPS (Electric Power Steering) warning light will highlight an issue that is related to the electric power steering system rather than a hydraulic one. 

It will appear in the same way as the power steering warning light. 

This is very similar to the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) in modern vehicles that helps the driver maintain control when behind the wheel.