Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Power Steering Pressure Switch

The power steering pressure switch communicates with the computer by sending information about the fluid in the power steering pressure system of the vehicle. From there, the computer adjusts the engine’s operation as needed. The switch has two electrical sensors, as well as a diaphragm, which are subjected to heat on a daily basis. Over time, this heat can cause the pressure switch to fail. The following are a few symptoms to look for if you suspect a failing power steering pressure switch:

1. Engine slowing down

As soon as the power steering pressure switch starts to go bad, the computer will not be able to keep up with the demand of the power steering system and make proper adjustments. One symptom of this is the engine will slow down when you turn a corner, or while you are driving at low speeds.

2. Engine stalling

Along with slowing down, the engine may stall when the wheel is turned. Again, this is due to the computer not being able to meet the changing demands of the power steering system, causing the engine idle to drop too low. The engine’s computer will not recognize the demand for power, so it cannot compensate, causing the engine to stall. If this happens to you, contact the professionals at YourMechanic to have your power steering pressure switch diagnosed. A vehicle should not be driven if it is stalling.

3. Speeding up and slowing down

As the computer tries to keep up with the demand of the power steering system, you may notice the engine slows down then overcompensates by speeding up with an erratic idle. This can be a dangerous situation because if it speeds up unexpectedly in traffic, it could cause an accident or cause you to lose control of the vehicle.

4. Check Engine Light comes on

If the computer recognizes the pressure switch is not working correctly, it will trigger the Check Engine Light on your dashboard. Once this light is illuminated, it is important to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. The Check Engine Light can mean many different things, so it could be a problem with your power steering pressure switch, or it could be a combination of issues.

As soon as you notice your engine slows down, stalls, or speeds up then slows down, have your power steering pressure switch inspected and replaced. In addition, anytime your Check Engine Light is illuminated your vehicle should be inspected by a mechanic. YourMechanic makes getting repairs to your power steering pressure switch by coming to your home or office to diagnose or fix issues. You can book a service online 24/7. YourMechanic’s qualified technicians are also available for any questions that may arise.


Next Step

Schedule Steering Inspection

The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Steering Inspection. Once the problem has been diagnosed, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $20.00 off as a credit towards the repair. YourMechanic’s technicians bring the dealership to you by performing this job at your home or office 7-days a week between 7AM-9PM. We currently cover over 2,000 cities and have 100k+ 5-star reviews... LEARN MORE

SEE PRICING & SCHEDULING

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Recent Steering Inspection reviews

Excellent Rating

(5)

Rating Summary
4
1
0
0
0
4
1
0
0
0

Michael

28 years of experience
672 reviews
Michael
28 years of experience
Chrysler Town & Country V6-3.6L - Window Motor / Regulator Assembly Replacement (Driver Side Front) - Gilbert, Arizona
Prompt, Polite and professional.
Toyota Corolla - Starter - Chandler, Arizona
Very nice! Definitely knows what he's doing, I'd recommend him to anyone who needs help with their car.

Michael

10 years of experience
28 reviews
Michael
10 years of experience
Ford F-150 V8-5.4L - Steering Inspection - Tehachapi, California
Michael showed up on time. Was very knowledgeable, courteous, and thorough. He pin pointed the problem and shared his recommendations. I would definitely call him again

UnDre

11 years of experience
34 reviews
UnDre
11 years of experience
Nissan Murano V6-3.5L - Steering Inspection - Memphis, Tennessee
UnDre was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and professional. I would definitely recommend him.

Jay

38 years of experience
1035 reviews
Jay
38 years of experience
Hyundai Elantra L4-1.8L - Steering - Corona, California
He was very nice, He explained to me all that was wrong with my car. He recommended that I take my car in to the dealership.

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

How to Replace a Power Steering Control Valve
Some common signs of a failing power steering control valve include a power steering fluid leak or the smell of burning power steering fluid.
How to Replace a Power Steering Control Unit
Signs of a failing power steering control unit include an illuminated EPS (Electric Power Steering) Warning Light or difficulty steering the vehicle.
How to Check Your Power Steering Fluid Level
Power steering fluid pressurizes the power steering system. The type of power steering fluid differs between cars and the level must be maintained.

Related questions

Fluid in the boot looks like power steering fluid
Hello. The fluid in the boot is a separate issue. If there is fluid in the boot it is because the rack and pinion is failing. These boots are not there to contain fluid but to keep dirt out. If...
Turning of more than 1/2 circle of the steering wheel causes gunk gunk gunk sound
My guess is that the strut mount/bearing is worn or binding. Strut mount/bearing wear can intensify with the installation of a lowering kit. The tie rod connects into the strut assembly, which is turned on the bearing every time you...
car cuts out or looses power when going in to corners at low speed
Hello. Thanks for writing in. When it comes to situations like this, always keep it simple. Seeing that the steering is the only issue contribution factor, its likely the pump is going bad. The power steering pump uses engine power...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com