P0551 Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description
Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
What does that mean?
This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with a power steering pressure sensor. That may include but is not limited to vehicles from Infiniti, Nissan, Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Kia, etc.
Before hydraulically and electrically assisted steering systems were invented, manufacturers used an unassisted rack and pinion steering system. This made steering at low speed extremely difficult and inefficient.
For this reason we invented the power steering system. Generally speaking, a hydraulically assisted system will include a belt driven power steering pump, steering rack/box and various hoses/lines and sensors. The Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) works in conjunction with the power steering pressure sensor to monitor the pressure within the system and adjust accordingly.
The ECM illuminates the check engine light with P0551 and associated codes when it recognizes one or multiples condition outside a specific desired range within the power steering pressure sensors’s circuit. Most times, I would say, this code is thrown by the ECM because of an electrical issue but at times, mechanical problems could possibly be the cause.
P0551 Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance code is set when the ECM/PCM monitors a condition outside specific parameters within the sensor’s circuit. It is one of five related codes, which are P0550, P0551, P0552, P0553, and P0554.
What is the severity of this DTC?
Given the fact that most likely, your power steering system could completely fail and you could still drive your car, severity here is set to low. Obviously, that’s a dumb idea, any issue left long enough will cost you more in the long run.
An example of a power steering fluid pressure switch/sensor:
What are some of the symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P0551 diagnostic code may include:
What are some of the common causes of the code?
Causes for this code may include:
What are some P0551 troubleshooting steps?
Be sure to check for technical service bulletins (TSBs) for your vehicle. Getting access to a known fix can save you time and money during diagnosis.
Tools
Some of the things you may need when diagnosing or repairing the power steering circuits and systems:
Safety Tips
NOTE: ALWAYS verify and record the integrity of your battery and charging system before further troubleshooting.
Basic Step #1
Always keep it simple at first. Check your power steering fluid level and top up as necessary. Check your parking space, any signs of a leak? If so, investigate further. If the fluid is low, it’s going somewhere so make sure to repair any mechanical leaks before proceeding to any electrical diagnosing. Take a good look at the sensor itself, I’ve personally seen these sensors leak through the sensor itself, so make sure it’s dry and there is no obvious signs of damage and/or leaks.
NOTE: These systems use high pressures that could cause harm so be careful, pinhole leaks are dangerous and are a serious hazard. If you are not familiar with the dangers of working with hydraulic systems, please bring your vehicle to a reputable repair facility.
Basic Step #2
To rule out the sensor, you will need to test it. Refer to your service manual for the specifications needed. Usually, the sensor itself is mounted to a power steering pressure line. Most times these are hard aluminum/braided rubber lines and can be accessed from under the hood.
NOTE: A common leak found is where the rubber meets the hard pressure line, sometimes it separates and causes a hard to find leak.
Basic Tip #3
Locate the electrical connector on the pressure sensor. Inspect for any oil residue/soaking. If the connector is soaked in oil, obviously the leak is a problem but the oil must be cleaned before reconnecting. A connector showing signs of melting and/or corrosion must be repaired.
NOTE: Make sure to disconnect battery before performing any electrical repairs.
Basic Step #4
Check for physical damage. In this case I’d say the sensor is exposed to some harsh conditions. If the lines aren’t fastened properly, the sensor may be rubbing on something and over time could cause an electrical problem of some sort. Fasten any loose lines, especially the one with the sensor mounted to it.
Basic Step #5
You may be able to verify the integrity of the power steering pressure sensor circuit(s). To pretty much rule out any problem with your wiring harness, you could disconnect the circuit at the sensor and the ECM. Using your multimeter, refer to your service manual and verify that all the desired values are in check. If everything seems fine up to this point i would recommend you bring the vehicle to your reputable repair facility.
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"Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0551 in the ECU"
In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0551 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.
Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0551.
