To reset power steering assist fault, locate the battery in the vehicle and disconnect it for a few minutes. Power steering is an essential component of a vehicle, which makes driving comfortable and convenient.
It is the power steering system that makes steering easier, especially for large or heavy vehicles. However, like any other automotive system, the power steering system can develop faults that may need to be resolved. One of the common issues related to power steering is the power steering assist fault.
This fault can be due to a disruption in communication between the power steering module and the vehicle’s electronic control unit. If you are facing a power steering assist fault, you can reset it by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. In this article, we will look at how to reset power steering assist fault and other related issues.
Credit: vehq.com
Step 1: Turn Off The Engine And Restart It After Some Minutes
Why Turning Off The Engine Matters In Resetting The Fault
If you face a power steering assist fault in your vehicle, one of the first steps to tackle it is to turn off the engine. This step may seem counterintuitive, but it’s essential. Here’s why:
- Turning off the engine stops the power steering pump from running, allowing the system to reset and start over again.
- It also ensures that the power steering motor and other electrical components receive a temporary reset.
- It lets the system check for any malfunctions when you restart the engine, and if it detects none, the fault warning should disappear.
How Long To Wait Before Restarting The Engine
After turning off your vehicle’s engine, you must wait before restarting it. The exact time you need to wait can vary based on different factors, such as the car’s make and model, climate, and parking location. However, it’s crucial to wait at least two minutes before restarting your car to reset the power steering assist fault.
Ways To Turn Off The Engine Safely
When turning off the engine to reset the power steering assist fault, there are a few ways to do it safely. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Put the vehicle in park or neutral before turning off the engine.
- Make sure the emergency parking brake is active.
- Turn off all electrical components, such as the air conditioning or stereo system, before turning off the engine.
- Use the ignition key or push-button start system to turn off the engine.
- You should keep both feet on the ground before you turn off your car.
By following these tips, you can safely turn off your vehicle’s engine to reset the power steering assist fault. Remember to wait at least two minutes before restarting the engine to ensure that the fault remains reset.
Step 2: Check The Power Steering Fluid Level
Why Low Fluid Level Can Trigger The Power Steering Assist Fault
Low power steering fluid level can trigger the power steering assist fault, which can cause difficulty in steering the vehicle, increased effort needed to turn the wheel, and a whining or groaning noise. This is due to the power steering system struggling to generate the necessary hydraulic pressure to assist with turning the wheels.
Low fluid level can be caused by leaks, worn-out seals, or a lack of maintenance.
How To Check The Power Steering Fluid Level Accurately
Checking your power steering fluid level is an easy task that can be done regularly to ensure your vehicle’s performance. Here’s how you can check the power steering fluid level accurately:
- Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
- Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood. It is usually located near the front of the engine and is labeled with “power steering fluid.”
- Clean the reservoir’s cap and surrounding area to prevent dirt and debris from entering the system.
- Remove the cap and check the fluid level on the dipstick or reservoir. The dipstick or reservoir level should be between the two marks on the dipstick or labeled indicator on the reservoir.
- If the fluid is low, add more fluid until it reaches the recommended level.
How To Add More Power Steering Fluid If Necessary
If you find that the fluid level is low or below the recommended level, you can add more fluid by following these steps:
- Use a funnel to add the recommended fluid type into the power steering reservoir slowly. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type and amount.
- Add fluid gradually and stop once the recommended level has been reached.
- Turn on the engine and let the car idle for a few minutes while turning the steering wheel back and forth to remove any air bubbles from the system.
- Check the fluid level again and add more fluid if necessary.
Regularly checking your car’s power steering fluid level is essential for maintaining good performance and extending the component’s lifespan. Remember to only use the recommended fluid type and amount when adding fluid to your power steering system.
Step 3: Inspect The Power Steering System
When your power steering assist fails, you can solve the problem easily by resetting it. In the previous steps, we discussed how to turn off the steering wheel and reset the system. Now, we have reached step 3: inspect the power steering system.
What To Inspect In The Power Steering System
To restore the functioning of the power steering system, you need to check any defects in the power steering system.
How To Visually Inspect The Components
Visually inspect the power steering system’s components to detect any issues that need immediate attention. Look for damaged or worn-out parts and make sure that they are not leaking or missing. Whether the issue is a cracked belt or damaged hose, it needs to be fixed before starting the vehicle.
How To Inspect The Hoses For Leaks
The hoses are a crucial component of your power steering system. Ensure you inspect the hoses for leaks, which could cause the power steering fluid to drip, leading to damage to the steering wheel, pump, and steering gear. To inspect the hoses, use a flashlight to check the whole hose for cracks or worn portions.
If there are leaks, it’s better to replace the hose.
Inspecting The Pump For Damage
The power steering pump plays a big role in assisting the steering wheel. Inspect the pump for any damage, leaks or unusual noises that could be a sign that there is a problem. Also, turn the pulley to see if it rotates smoothly or if there is any damage or looseness.
If you find any damage, replace the pump immediately.
Inspecting The Steering Gear For Damages
The steering gear is also a vital component in the power steering system. To check if there is any damage, turn the steering wheel both ways while the car is still raised on the jack. If the steering wheel is not responding well, it indicates an issue with the steering gear.
When you identify any damage, replace the steering gear to restore its functionality.
Inspecting The Belt
Your power steering system’s belt keeps all the components moving, ensuring smoother operation. Inspect the belt to ensure that it’s in good condition and not damaged. As the belt wears, it becomes loose or cracks may appear. If the belt is worn out or damaged, it can cause the power steering pump to stop working, requiring replacement.
Following the procedures above and fixing any issue found in the inspection process will help correct the power steering fault, and restore the system’s functionality.
Step 4: Clear The Power Steering System’S Error Code
How To Use An Obd-Ii Device To Scan The System For Error Codes
An obd-ii scanner is a tool that can scan your vehicle’s onboard computer and retrieve any error codes being generated by the power steering system. To use an obd-ii scanner, follow these steps:
- Locate the obd-ii connector port in your vehicle. It is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Plug the obd-ii connector into the port. The scanner will power on.
- Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
- Use the menu options on the scanner to select ‘read codes’.
- The scanner will retrieve any error codes and display them on the screen.
How To Clear The Error Code Using The Obd-Ii Device
Once you have retrieved the error codes from the power steering system using an obd-ii scanner, you can clear them using the following steps:
- On the scanner menu, select ‘erase codes’.
- Confirm that you want to erase the codes.
- Wait for the scanner to clear the codes. This may take a few minutes.
- Turn off the ignition and unplug the old-ii scanner from the car.
What To Do If The Fault Persists After Clearing The Error Code
If the fault in your power steering system persists even after clearing the error code, you may need to take some additional steps:
- Inspect the power steering system for any visible damage or leaks.
- Check the power steering fluid level and ensure that it is within the recommended range.
- Take your car to a certified mechanic for further diagnostics and repair.
Remember, power steering assist faults can compromise your vehicle’s safety and handling. Do not ignore them and seek professional help if the problem persists.
Step 5: Test Drive The Vehicle
Why Test Driving Is Important After Resetting The Power Steering Assist Fault
After resetting the power steering assist fault, you must drive the vehicle to ensure that everything is working correctly. Here are some reasons why test driving is crucial:
- Diagnosing any remaining issues: When you reset the fault, it’s possible that some problems could persist, which may only be apparent after taking the car for a drive.
- Confirming that the fault is gone: The last thing you want is to think that you’ve fixed the issue, only to discover that the power steering assist fault is still active. Test driving will help verify that the glitch is gone.
- Enhancing safety: Vehicles with power steering assist faults can be challenging to control, so test driving after resetting the fault ensures the car is safe to drive.
How To Test Drive The Car Safely
Before test driving the car, make sure that you are in a safe and legal location to conduct a road test. Here is how you can safely test drive the car:
- Start slowly: Try driving the car at a low speed in an empty parking lot or private road to see if everything feels right. If it does, gradually increase your speed.
- Stay focused: Keep your attention on the road at all times and be alert to any warning signs such as strange noises or vibrations.
- Check the steering response: During the test drive, pay attention to how the car responds when you turn the wheel. Does the power steering feel right? Make sure to address any issues you encounter.
- Observe the vehicle gauges: Keep an eye on the car’s gauges, including the fuel gauge and oil pressure, to make sure everything is as it should be.
What To Look Out For After Resetting The Fault
After resetting the power steering assist fault, be mindful of any signs of trouble, which may indicate that the problem persists.
- Listen out for strange sounds: If you hear anything unusual during the test drive, such as screeching or clunking sounds, make sure to address it.
- Check for vibrations: Vibrations may indicate that the wheels are misaligned or unbalanced, and addressing these issues as soon as possible can prevent further damage to the car.
- Look out for warning lights: If the same fault code reappears, or new warning lights start flashing on the dashboard, you may need to perform further diagnostic tests or take your car to a professional mechanic.
- Pay close attention to the steering: The power steering system controls the steering of your vehicle. When there is a fault and you reset it, it is important to check that the steering is working smoothly and precisely.
After resetting the power steering assist fault, a test drive is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive, any lingering issues are addressed, and the fault is genuinely gone. By following the recommended steps to test drive the car and identify any signs of issues, you can avoid costly repairs and stay safe on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions For How To Reset Power Steering Assist Fault
What Causes Power Steering Assist Faults?
Power steering assist faults can be caused by low power steering fluid, a bad power steering pump, a faulty steering angle sensor, or a broken power steering belt.
How Do I Reset Power Steering Assist Fault?
To reset power steering assist fault, turn off the car and disconnect the battery for a few minutes, then reconnect it. Start the car and turn the wheels all the way to the left and then all the way to the right, then center the steering wheel.
Can A Power Steering Assist Fault Be Fixed At Home?
Some power steering assist faults can be fixed at home. It’s important to diagnose the issue first and consult a mechanic if you’re uncertain about the repair process.
Is It Safe To Drive With A Power Steering Assist Fault?
Driving with a power steering assist fault can be dangerous, especially if the power steering assistance is lost entirely. It’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure safe driving conditions.
When Should I Take My Car To A Mechanic For Power Steering Assist Faults?
If you’ve attempted to fix the power steering assist fault at home and the issue persists, it’s important to take your car to a certified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Conclusion
Based on the steps discussed, resetting power steering assist fault is a manageable task that can be done with proper knowledge and tools. It’s important to first diagnose the problem through a scan tool and ensure that the battery and alternator are healthy.
The first step towards resetting the warning light is turning off the engine and reconnecting the battery cables. This should be done carefully to avoid any electrical mishaps. It’s also crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on resetting the fault by either driving the vehicle or carrying out a manual reset.
By resetting the power steering assist fault, you’ll be able to drive your car safely again without any further issues. Remember to be cautious and prioritize safety during the process. With these tips, you can easily reset the power steering assist fault and enjoy a smoother driving experience.
