A steering information fault is a warning that your vehicle's power steering system or its electronic information feature has detected a problem

When your dashboard displays a steering information fault message, it means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has found an issue with either the hydraulic power steering, electric power steering, or the electronic control systems that help manage steering effort. This is not the same as a complete steering failure — you can still steer the vehicle, but you may notice the steering wheel feels heavier, less responsive, or requires more physical effort than normal.

The fault can range from a minor sensor malfunction to a genuine mechanical problem. Some faults clear themselves after you restart the engine; others persist and require professional diagnosis. The key is understanding what the message means, whether it is safe to drive, and when you need to see a technician.

Key Takeaways

  • A steering information fault warning means your power steering system or its electronic controls have detected a problem, but you can usually still steer the vehicle.
  • The steering wheel may feel heavier or less responsive, and the fault may come and go depending on driving conditions or temperature.
  • You should have the fault diagnosed by a technician within a few days, because some causes (like low fluid or a failing pump) can worsen and become unsafe.
  • Restarting the engine sometimes clears temporary faults, but a fault that returns after restart almost always requires professional service.
  • Repair costs vary widely depending on the cause — from a straightforward fluid top-up to replacement of the power steering pump or electronic control module.

Why the fault appears and what triggers it

Modern vehicles use either hydraulic power steering (fluid-driven) or electric power steering (motor-driven), and both have electronic sensors and control modules that monitor their operation. A steering information fault appears when one of these components detects an abnormality: low fluid pressure, a sensor reading outside normal range, a wiring problem, or a mechanical failure in the pump or motor.

Common triggers include low power steering fluid, a failing power steering pump, a malfunctioning steering angle sensor, a broken serpentine belt (on hydraulic systems), a faulty electric motor (on electric systems), or a problem in the steering control module itself. Temperature extremes, especially cold weather, can cause temporary faults because fluid viscosity changes or sensors become sluggish. A fault that appears only in winter and clears in spring often points to a fluid or sensor issue rather than a mechanical failure.

Electrical problems — a loose battery terminal, corroded connector, or damaged wiring — can also trigger the fault without any actual steering system damage. This is why a technician's first step is usually to read the specific fault code stored in the vehicle's computer, which narrows down the source.

How to respond when the warning appears

If the steering information fault appears while you are driving, do not panic. Pull over safely when you can, turn off the engine, wait 30 seconds, and restart it. Many temporary faults — especially those caused by a brief sensor glitch or a loose connection — will clear after a restart. If the message does not return during your next 10 to 15 minutes of driving, the fault was likely transient and not urgent.

If the fault returns when ready after restart, or if the steering feels noticeably heavier or unresponsive, do not drive the vehicle long distances. Arrange for a technician to inspect it within a day or two. Continuing to drive with a persistent steering information fault risks the problem worsening — a failing pump can eventually stop working entirely, or a sensor malfunction can cause the steering to behave unpredictably.

If the steering feels completely normal despite the warning, you have a bit more flexibility. Many drivers can safely drive to a scheduled service appointment the next day or two. However, avoid highway driving or heavy traffic until a technician has cleared the fault, because you want to be in a controlled environment if the steering suddenly becomes difficult.

What a technician will check and diagnose

A may have access to technician will connect a diagnostic scanner to your vehicle's onboard computer to retrieve the specific fault code. This code tells them which system component is reporting a problem — for example, a code pointing to the steering angle sensor is very different from a code pointing to low fluid pressure. The technician will also perform a visual inspection: checking power steering fluid level and condition, looking for leaks, inspecting hoses and belts, and testing electrical connectors.

On hydraulic systems, low fluid is one of the most common causes and the easiest to fix. The technician will top up the fluid and check for leaks; if the level drops again within days, there is a leak that needs repair. On electric systems, the technician may test the motor, wiring, and control module. In both cases, they may need to clear the fault code and test-drive the vehicle to confirm the problem is resolved.

Some faults require component replacement — a new power steering pump, a new sensor, a new belt, or even a new steering control module. Others can be fixed by cleaning a corroded connector or tightening a loose wire. The specific repair depends entirely on what the diagnostic code and physical inspection reveal.

Repair costs and what affects the price

Steering information fault repairs range from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on the cause and your vehicle's make and model. A power steering fluid top-up costs almost nothing. Replacing a serpentine belt on a hydraulic system typically runs $150 to $300. A new power steering pump can cost $400 to $800 or more, depending on whether it is a remanufactured or new unit and how much labor is involved.

Electric power steering repairs tend to be more expensive because the motor and control module are complex components. A new electric power steering motor or control module can cost $600 to $1,500 or more, plus labor. Sensor replacement usually falls in the $200 to $500 range. Labor costs vary by region and shop; dealerships typically charge more than independent mechanics, but dealerships may have better access to manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools.

If your vehicle is still under warranty, the repair may be covered at no cost. If the warranty has expired, you can get quotes from multiple shops before committing. Some independent mechanics charge less than dealerships for the same repair, though you should verify they have experience with your vehicle's specific steering system.

When it is not safe to drive

Stop driving when ready and arrange for a tow if the steering wheel becomes very hard to turn, if it feels loose or unresponsive, or if the fault message is accompanied by other warning lights (such as a brake warning or stability control warning). These signs suggest a more serious problem than a straightforward sensor malfunction.

Also do not drive if the steering information fault appears along with a burning smell, fluid leaking visibly under the vehicle, or a grinding or whining noise from the steering column. These are signs of mechanical failure or overheating, and continuing to drive risks losing steering control entirely.

If you are unsure whether it is safe to drive, err on the side of caution. Call a technician or roadside information and describe the symptoms. They can advise whether the vehicle is safe to drive to a shop or should be towed.

Preventing steering information faults

Regular maintenance is the best prevention. Check your power steering fluid level every month or two — the owner's manual shows you where the reservoir is and what color the fluid should be. If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it needs replacement. Follow your vehicle's recommended service intervals for power steering fluid flushes, which typically occur every 50,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the manufacturer.

Keep your serpentine belt in good condition by having it inspected during routine service. A worn or cracked belt can slip and reduce power steering pressure. On electric systems, avoid driving through deep water, which can damage electrical connectors and the motor. Keep battery terminals clean and tight, because a loose connection can cause sensor faults.

If you notice the steering wheel feeling heavier than usual, or if you hear a whining noise when turning, have it checked promptly. Catching a problem early — like a low fluid level or a worn belt — prevents it from becoming a major repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a steering information fault if the steering feels normal?

You can drive carefully to a nearby service appointment, but avoid highways and heavy traffic. A fault that does not affect how the steering feels may still indicate a developing problem. Have it diagnosed within a day or two rather than ignoring it.

What is the difference between a steering information fault and a complete steering failure?

A steering information fault means the power steering system has detected a problem but the steering still works — it just feels heavier. A complete steering failure means you have lost all power information and the wheel is very hard to turn. Steering information faults are much more common and usually less urgent.

Will the fault go away on its own?

Some temporary faults clear after restarting the engine, especially if they were caused by a brief sensor glitch or electrical hiccup. If the fault returns after restart, or if it persists for more than a few minutes, it will not go away without repair.

How much does it usually cost to fix a steering information fault?

Costs range from under $100 for a fluid top-up to over $1,000 for a new power steering pump or electric motor. The exact price depends on what caused the fault and your vehicle's make and model. Get quotes from at least two shops before deciding.

Is a steering information fault covered under warranty?

If your vehicle is still under the manufacturer's warranty, steering system repairs are usually covered at no cost. Check your warranty paperwork or contact your dealership to confirm coverage. Extended warranties vary by provider and may or may not cover steering components.