Power-steering warning light on? See common electric and hydraulic steering causes, what heavy steering means and when to stop driving.
Treat changes in steering seriously
A power-steering warning means steering assistance may be reduced or unavailable. The steering mechanism can still be mechanically connected, but the wheel may become much heavier to turn, especially at low speed.
Reduce speed smoothly and stop somewhere safe. A sudden loss of assistance can make parking, junctions and emergency manoeuvres much harder. Do not assume the warning is harmless if steering effort has clearly changed.
Electric power steering can draw substantial current and is sensitive to low voltage. A weak battery, charging fault or poor connection can therefore trigger steering-assistance faults even when the steering unit itself is not the root cause.
Older hydraulic systems can lose assistance because of low fluid, leaks, pump failure or a drive-belt problem. Electric systems use motors, sensors and control modules instead. The correct diagnosis depends on which system the vehicle uses.
Checks can include battery and charging voltage, stored steering fault codes, relevant fuses and wiring, steering-angle or torque-sensor data and, on hydraulic systems, fluid level, leaks, belt condition and pump operation.
Photograph the dashboard and AutoAid can help identify the symbol, ask follow-up questions and explain likely next steps.
Photograph the warning lightThe Highway Code advises drivers to understand dashboard warnings and not ignore signs that may indicate a serious developing fault. Your vehicle handbook remains the definitive source for the exact symbol and manufacturer-specific procedure.
AutoAid provides AI-assisted guidance only and never a guarantee. All faults, urgency ratings and prices are estimates — a physical inspection by a qualified mechanic may still be required.