Powertrain, generic · Vehicle speed, idle control and auxiliary inputs

P0552 Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Low

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

Hydraulic power steering has a pressure switch or sensor on the high-pressure line; when the wheel is turned at standstill, pump pressure and engine load rise sharply, so the engine module raises idle air in advance to stop the engine stalling. That makes it an input to idle control under CARB. Switches (Saab, Mitsubishi) ground a pull-up; analogue 5 V sensors (Toyota) give about 0.45 V at zero pressure. GM's and Ford's tables do not use P0550–P0554. P0552 means the signal of an analogue sensor is below range – an open 5 V supply, a signal shorted to ground or a faulty sensor, not low pressure. Toyota's 2007–08 Tundra set P0552/P0553 from a series sensor fault and replaced it with a revised part, with the warning lamp on.

Likely causes

Sensor faulty (Tundra 2007–08 series part)
5 V supply open or signal shorted to ground
Connector corroded or oily (leaking sensor)
Engine module 5 V reference

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on (Toyota)
  • Idle drops when steering at standstill
  • Possible fluid leak at the sensor

Repair estimate

DifficultyEasyDIY possible
Parts and labour€60–300
Time0.3–1.5 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

power steering pressure switchsensor wiringengine control module

Related codes

P0553P0550P0551P0554P0506

References: vehicleservicepros.com, law.cornell.edu.