Power Steering Warning Light
What it means
Shown as a steering wheel with an exclamation mark, this light is amber on most cars and red on some. It means the electric or hydraulic power steering system found a fault and may reduce or stop assistance, so the steering becomes heavy. It is normal for it to glow for a few seconds at key-on and then go out.
Codes that may appear with it
The most common stored codes that may turn this light on; scan the car with an OBD reader to find the actual code.
Symptoms4
- Noticeably heavy steering, especially at low speed and when parking.
- Assistance that comes and goes or differs between left and right.
- Whining from the pump on hydraulic systems.
- A steering message on the display, sometimes with the battery light.
Possible causes6
- Low battery voltage or a charging system fault on electric steering.
- Low or leaking steering fluid on hydraulic systems.
- Faulty steering torque or angle sensor, or its wiring.
- Loose or broken pump belt on belt-driven hydraulic systems.
- Temporary heat protection on some cars after a lot of steering while stationary.
- Failed electric steering motor or control unit, or a failed steering pump.
How to diagnose5
- Stop safely and restart the car; some temporary voltage-related faults clear.
- On a hydraulic system, check the steering fluid level and leaks as the owner's manual describes.
- Note whether the battery light is also on, and check battery and alternator voltage.
- Read the steering module codes with a scan tool that supports it.
- The workshop checks the sensors, wiring, motor or pump and belt depending on the system type.
How to fix6
- Fix a weak battery or charging fault, then restart and confirm the message is gone.
- Top up with the correct steering fluid and fix the leak.
- Repair the connector or wire or replace the sensor, with a steering angle calibration if needed.
- Replace the belt or steering pump on hydraulic systems.
- Repair or replace the electric steering column or steering rack if confirmed faulty.
- Clear the codes and test the steering when parking and driving.
Repair cost
In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.
In the Saudi market: SAR 100–6,000 (≈ USD 27–1,600)
Our prices come from the Saudi market, converted at a fixed rate (SAR 3.75 per USD). Prices in your country may differ a lot, so we show the cost level.
The cost starts with a battery fix or a fluid top-up, and reaches the upper end when the steering rack or electric steering column must be replaced.
Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.
Prices last updated: September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with heavy steering?
You can still steer by hand, but it takes more effort and can catch you out in turns and parking. Drive gently to the nearest workshop; if the light is red or steering is very hard, stop and call for help.
Why did it come on after a jump start?
Electric steering is sensitive to low voltage and may log a fault when the battery is weak. If the light stays on after charging and restarting, read the codes.
Why did it appear after lots of steering in a tight spot?
Some cars reduce assistance for a while to protect the steering motor from heat, and it returns to normal after a few minutes of rest or straight driving. If it happens without reason, have it checked.
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