The connection between your power steering pump and the check engine light
Your 2008 Honda Accord's check engine light can turn on because of a power steering pump problem, even though the pump itself has nothing to do with the engine. This happens because the pump is connected to the engine's serpentine belt and shares electrical sensors with the engine control system. When the pump fails or leaks, it can trigger fault codes that tell the engine computer something is wrong.
The most common reason is a failing power steering pump that draws too much current from the alternator, causing the charging system to work harder. This electrical strain can register as a fault code. Another reason is a power steering pressure switch that has gone bad — this switch monitors hydraulic pressure and sends a signal to the engine computer, and when it fails, the computer logs an error.
A third possibility is that the serpentine belt that drives the pump is slipping or worn. A slipping belt reduces the pump's ability to function, and the engine computer detects this through changes in electrical load and logs a code.
Key Takeaways
- A failing power steering pump can trigger the check engine light because it draws excessive current from the charging system or because its pressure switch sends faulty signals to the engine computer.
- The serpentine belt that drives the pump can slip or wear out, causing the engine computer to detect abnormal electrical load and log a fault code.
- You can read the specific fault code with an OBD-II scanner to narrow down whether the problem is the pump itself, the pressure switch, or the belt.
- Power steering fluid leaks, worn pump bearings, and a failing alternator can all contribute to the check engine light appearing alongside steering problems.
How to read the fault code with an OBD-II scanner
The check engine light is your engine computer's way of storing a specific fault code. To know whether the problem is actually the power steering pump, you need to read that code. You can do this with an OBD-II scanner, which plugs into the diagnostic port under the steering column on the driver's side of your 2008 Accord.
Basic OBD-II scanners cost between $25 and $100 and are available at auto parts stores. Plug the scanner into the port, turn the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine, and the scanner will display a code like P0500 or P0128. Write down the exact code. Common codes related to power steering on your Accord include P0517 (power steering pressure switch circuit low), P0518 (power steering pressure switch circuit high), and codes in the P0600 range (electrical communication faults).
If you do not want to buy a scanner, many auto parts stores will read the code for free and print out a report. This report will tell you what system the code points to, though it will not always pinpoint the exact part that failed.
Power steering pump failure signs beyond the check engine light
Before the check engine light appears, a failing power steering pump usually shows other signs. The steering wheel may become harder to turn, especially when the car is cold or idling. You might hear a whining or squealing noise from the engine bay that gets louder when you turn the wheel. The power steering fluid may be dark, burnt-smelling, or leaking onto the ground under the car.
If the pump is leaking, you will see red or pink fluid dripping from the engine area. The leak often comes from the pump's seal or from the hose connections. A pump with worn internal bearings will make a grinding or rattling sound that changes pitch as you steer.
These signs often appear weeks or months before the check engine light comes on. If you notice any of them, checking the power steering fluid level and condition is the first step. Low or discolored fluid means the pump is struggling and may fail soon.
Why the serpentine belt matters
The serpentine belt is a single rubber belt that drives multiple components, including the power steering pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor. On a 2008 Accord, this belt typically lasts 60,000 to 100,000 miles. When it wears out or slips, the pump does not turn at full speed, and the engine computer detects the change in electrical load.
A slipping belt often makes a squealing noise, especially when you accelerate or turn the steering wheel. If the belt is visibly cracked, frayed, or glazed (shiny and smooth), it needs replacement. A worn belt can cause the check engine light to come on because the engine computer sees the alternator working harder to compensate for the reduced power from the pump.
Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2008 Accord is a straightforward job that costs between $150 and $300 at a shop, or you can do it yourself if you are comfortable with basic engine work. The belt itself costs $30 to $60.
The power steering pressure switch and electrical faults
The power steering pressure switch is a small sensor screwed into the pump or the pressure line. It monitors the hydraulic pressure inside the system and sends a signal to the engine computer. When pressure is normal, the switch sends one signal; when pressure is high (like when you turn the wheel hard), it sends another. If the switch fails, it sends a constant wrong signal, and the engine computer logs a fault code.
A bad pressure switch usually costs $40 to $120 and takes 30 minutes to an hour to replace. You can locate it by following the high-pressure hose from the pump — the switch is usually at the end of that hose. Replacing it is often cheaper and faster than replacing the entire pump, so if your fault code points to the pressure switch, this is worth trying first.
Electrical corrosion on the switch connector can also cause false signals. If the connector looks corroded or loose, cleaning it with electrical contact cleaner and reseating it may clear the fault code without replacing the switch.
When to replace the pump versus repair other parts
A power steering pump replacement on a 2008 Accord costs between $400 and $800 at a shop, including labor. The pump itself costs $150 to $300, depending on whether you choose an original Honda part or an aftermarket replacement. Before you commit to this expense, rule out cheaper fixes first.
Start by checking the serpentine belt and the power steering pressure switch. If the belt is worn, replace it. If the pressure switch is faulty, replace it. If the power steering fluid is low, top it off and watch for leaks over the next week. Only if the check engine light returns after these steps should you consider pump replacement.
If the pump is leaking from the seal or making grinding noises, replacement is usually the only option. Seals cannot be replaced separately on most 2008 Accord pumps — you have to replace the entire unit. A remanufactured pump costs less than a new one and often comes with a warranty, so that is an option if cost is a concern.
Clearing the check engine light after repair
Once you have replaced or repaired the part that caused the fault code, the check engine light will not automatically turn off. You need to clear the code from the engine computer. You can do this with an OBD-II scanner by selecting "Clear Codes" or "Erase Codes" from the menu. Some scanners require you to press a button; others do it automatically.
If you do not have a scanner, driving the car normally for 50 to 100 miles may cause the light to turn off on its own, but this is not may provide. The safest approach is to clear the code yourself with a scanner or have a shop do it after the repair.
After clearing the code, monitor your steering feel and listen for noises. If the light comes back on within a few days, the original problem may not have been fully fixed, or a second fault may exist. If it stays off, the repair worked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my 2008 Accord with the check engine light on if the steering still works?
Yes, you can drive it, but you should not ignore it. The light means a fault code is stored, and the underlying problem will usually get worse. A failing pump can eventually seize, leaving you without power steering. Have the code read within a week to know what you are dealing with.
What is the difference between a new and remanufactured power steering pump?
A new pump is built from scratch and comes with a full warranty. A remanufactured pump has been taken apart, cleaned, worn parts replaced, and reassembled to like-new condition. It costs 30 to 50 percent less and usually comes with a one to three year warranty. Both are reliable choices for a 2008 Accord.
Will a power steering leak cause the check engine light to come on when ready?
Not always. A small leak may take weeks or months to cause the light to come on. The light typically appears once the fluid level drops enough that the pump cannot maintain proper pressure, or once the pressure switch detects abnormal conditions. Check your fluid level regularly to catch leaks early.
Can a bad alternator cause the check engine light to come on along with power steering problems?
Yes. If the alternator is failing, it cannot supply enough power to the charging system, and the engine computer detects this as an electrical fault. A failing alternator can also cause the power steering pump to work harder, triggering pressure switch codes. Have the alternator tested if the check engine light persists after you replace the pump or belt.