P0550 to P0554 and P0635 to P0637: power steering pressure sensor and control circuit
The power steering pressure sensor or switch has a circuit fault or an implausible, low, high or intermittent signal, or the circuit that controls the power steering has a fault.
SeverityHighCarrying on can cause expensive damage, so deal with it now.
Can you keep driving?Only as far as the workshopWhat does P0550 mean?
On cars with hydraulic power steering, the pump puts an extra load on the engine when the wheel is turned, especially at parking speeds. A pressure sensor or switch tells the engine computer so it can raise the idle and stop the engine stalling. On cars with electric or electro-hydraulic steering, the engine computer may also command the steering assistance through a control circuit. A sensor fault mostly affects the idle; a control circuit fault can leave the steering heavy.
What causes P0550?
- A failed pressure switch or sensor, often leaking fluid
- A damaged wire or connector near the steering pump
- Low power steering fluid making the pressure readings wrong
- A fault in the power steering control circuit or module
What to check first for P0550
- Check the power steering fluid level, on cars with hydraulic steering
- Turn the wheel lock to lock at idle and note whether the engine stumbles or the steering feels heavy
- Inspect the pressure switch and its connector for leaks and damage
- Read the steering module too, on cars with electric steering
Can you drive with P0550?
If the steering feels normal, you can drive to a workshop. If it becomes heavy or the steering warning lights up, drive slowly and only as far as you must, and have the car towed if you cannot steer comfortably.
Clear a code only after the fault is fixed. A code that comes back means the cause is still there, and a warning light left on can hide a second fault behind the first.
Codes on this page
- P0550Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
- P0551Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Range/Performance
- P0552Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Low Input
- P0553Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit High Input
- P0554Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Intermittent
- P0635Power Steering Control Circuit
- P0636Power Steering Control Circuit Low
- P0637Power Steering Control Circuit High
Related codes
Checked on · Rafael Soares
These are the generic meanings every manufacturer shares. Each brand adds its own detail, so your car's handbook, its service information and a qualified mechanic have the last word. OdoKeep has no connection with any manufacturer, and the app does not read codes from the car.
