What sensor is on the power steering pump?
The sensor is a Power Steering Pressure Switch (Though called a sensor, which it is not technically). It’s used for Engine load calculations, mostly at idle. Works very similar to the wire that always breaks on the alternator pigtail, which is also for an engine load calculation Honda has the same thing.
How much is a power steering pressure sensor?
The cost of a power steering pressure switch will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. A replacement power steering pressure switch may cost you anywhere between $10 and $300. You may purchase it individually or as part of a kit.
What is the purpose of a power steering pressure sensor?
Your car’s power steering pressure switch monitors the amount of pressure in the system, and communicates that information to the car’s computer. If it notices a drop in pressure, the car’s computer may turn on a warning light in the dash.
Can a power steering sensor leak?
The power steering pressure switch usually leaks around the mounting O-ring although it can leak through the center diaphram if it fails completely.
What does the high pressure side of the steering pump do?
The high-pressure side feeds fluid from the power steering pump to the power steering gearbox or the power steering rack. Most heavy-duty trucks and many older cars were designed with a power steering gearbox, but front wheel drive vehicles and most new light duty trucks utilize a power steering rack.
How do you replace a power steering sensor?
Secure one side of the end wrench to the bottom of the hydraulic line and the other to the actual sensor switch. Hold the bottom wrench in place as you loosen the top power steering pressure switch. Once you get it loose, you should be able to hand screw the power steering pressure switch off the hydraulic line.
Where is the power steering pressure switch located?
The power steering pressure switch lurks quietly under the hood until a problem develops with a vehicle, such as a power steering leak requiring line replacement.
What should I do if my power steering is failing?
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.