What To Do First
- Drive cautiously and avoid tight manoeuvres until the fault is checked.
- If steering suddenly becomes very heavy, stop somewhere safe.
- If hydraulic, check for fluid leaks around the front of the vehicle.
- If battery or charging warnings are also showing, arrange diagnosis quickly.
Electric Vs Hydraulic Power Steering
⚡ Electric Power Steering
Uses an electric motor and sensors. These systems are sensitive to low voltage and electrical faults.
💧 Hydraulic Power Steering
Uses a pump, belt and fluid. Low fluid, pump faults and leaks can cause heavy steering.
🧠 Electro-Hydraulic Steering
Uses an electric pump with steering fluid, so both electrical and fluid faults are possible.
Common Causes Of Power Steering Warning Lights
🔋 Low Battery Voltage
Electric steering systems can reduce or disable assistance when voltage drops.
💧 Low Steering Fluid
Hydraulic systems may become noisy or heavy when fluid is low or leaking.
⚙ Steering Pump Fault
Failing pumps can cause whining noises, intermittent assistance or heavy steering.
🧷 Drive Belt Issue
A slipping or snapped belt can stop hydraulic power steering assistance.
📟 Steering Angle Or Torque Sensor
Sensor faults can trigger warnings and disable electric steering assistance.
🔌 Wiring Or Module Fault
Corrosion, poor connections or module faults can cause intermittent steering warnings.
Can I Keep Driving?
- Slightly heavier steering: short careful driving may be possible, but book diagnostics.
- Suddenly very heavy steering: stop safely and get it checked.
- Battery light also on: urgent, as low voltage can affect multiple systems.
How AutoAid Diagnoses Steering Faults
We scan for steering fault codes, check battery and charging voltage, inspect steering fluid, belts and leaks where applicable, and confirm whether the motor, pump, wiring or sensors are causing the issue.
Power Steering Light On In Warrington?
Send your registration number, postcode and whether the steering feels heavy.