Yellow Steering Wheel Light in Volkswagen after Battery Change

Modern Volkswagen vehicles have several sensors fitted in them to help monitor how every system in your vehicle behaves. The dashboard lights will show which car's systems are in use, and they will also show when one of these systems isn't operating as it should.

Steering wheel light highlights

• Common reasons:power steering problem, software glitch, low battery
• How to fix:read the codes, disconnect the battery for some time
• Possible consequences:power steering may be reduced or disabled
• Priority level:High
• Can you drive?Not recommended
• DIY repair:Impossible
• Repair price range:$250-$1,500

What's Power Steering System Warning Light?

The power steering system warning light refers to an indicator at the dashboard which alerts the driver when there is a malfunction in their car's power steering system.

Where is the Warning Light of the Power Steering System Found?

The warning light of the power steering is easily recognizable on your car's dashboard. This can be in yellow, red, or orange "steering wheel" with an exclamation mark at the end. You will get an illuminated EPS communicating the same message with electric power steering systems.

You may also see the central warning light illuminating along with the power steering light. Read more about it in one of our articles.

What are the Possible Reasons Why the Power Steering Light Switches On?

In Volkswagen vehicles and any other with hydraulic power steering, the main reason that causes the power steering light comes on is a low fluid level. A leaking hose mainly causes low fluid levels.

When driving and the power steering warning light comes on abruptly, you need to park the vehicle in a safe place immediately for safety reasons since the steering will be heavier. There are several reasons why the warning light occurs; hence you should know the exact cause before diagnosing the issue. Let's look at the possible causes of why your power steering system warning light will turn on.

1) Low Fluid Levels

The low fluid level of the power steering is the main cause of the warning light turning on. The fluid makes steering smooth and keeps your system lubricated. If there's a problem with the power steering pressure, it may be a sign of low fluid level.

To solve this, open the car's hood and find the steering wheel fluid tank. In some vehicles, the reservoir cap has a steering wheel image. If the cap isn't indicated check at manufacturer's handbook for guidance.

After that, check the fluid level, and if it's too low, you should top up with more fluid before continuing with your journey.

Then start the engine to see if the steering warning light will switch on again. However, if the power steering light is still on, this indicates there is a more serious problem; hence consider taking it to a professional mechanic.

Of course, this problem can only trigger the warning light in old power steering systems that use fluids. Electric power steering don't have the fluid and so you won't find the reservoir with it under the hood of your VW.

2) Electrical Problems

When the warning steering light turns on with electric power steering systems, it indicates an electrical issue with your system. The issue may be brought about by the battery, which maybe you have just disconnected and reconnected, or an alternator. Also, carefully check for any visible damage or wear connections to the battery. Furthermore, steering wheel lights can also be caused by jump-starting your car.

Moreover, incorrect wiring and insufficient current supplied to the power steering system can also cause the issue.

The steering warning light also shows debris buildup in the system, including a clogged steering fluid filter. When this happens, replace or clean the parts. If the problem still remains, seek some professional assistance.

3) Leaks in Power Steering System

Another main cause of the steering wheel light is a leakage in fluid-filled hydraulic lines. Worn seals, faulty pumps, or old lines can cause leaking. The common symptom of leaking in the power steering is low levels in the reservoir. Furthermore, leaking will increase friction within the steering system, which deteriorates the performance, and eventually, the light will turn on.

4) Faulty Components

One cause of the steering wheel light is a faulty component in the system. When this happens, there will be reduced temperature and pressure in the fluid which reduces power steering performance. This may lead to noticeable handling and stability issues. Furthermore, the power steering light will also come on if the power pump is faulty.

This majorly occurs when there is fluid contamination, tear, and wear of some components, including the belt which drives the pump. When this happens, take your car to an expert for inspection and repair.

Proper maintenance of the power steering system is required. Thus check all the components regularly for proper belt tension and cracks.

In addition, regularly check the fluid levels and replace the dirty fluid since it will help the power steering system operate as required.

What's the Cost of Repairing a Power Steering System?

The exact cost of repairing a power steering system depends on the issue's severity and the car's model. The repair ranges from replacing the steering pump to fluid top-up. You can evade this problem by regularly checking the fluid level and servicing your car.

Can You Drive with the Power Steering Light On?

The electric power-assisted steering caution light shows that there is an issue with the power steering. When the power steering system fails, it gets hard to maneuver; hence, you must be very careful. Driving the vehicle at high speed will be risky when there is no power steering assistance.

With electric-powered systems, failed power steering can be easily fixed. You can achieve this by rebooting the car's computer or trying to switch the car on and off. If either of these won't resolve the issue, then it's high time you take your vehicle to a professional for repair.

How to Reset the Power Steering Light

Below we have a guide on how we can reset your vehicle's power steering light.

• Step One: Do a Visual Inspection

A keen visual inspection will assist you in understanding what's the problem with your car.

With the hydraulic power steering systems, check the fluid level of the power steering to ensure that it's within the required gauge. Restart the car to check if the warning lights go off.

Check every battery connection to see any visible wear or damage on cables. If so, repair or replace them. After that, restart your engine to check if the issue is resolved.

• Step Two: Use the OBD2 Scanner to Check the Trouble Code

Connect a scanner to your vehicle and switch on the ignition. Then press the "Read" key on the device. The scanner will scan your car to find out what could be causing your electric power steering lights to come on. To get an exact issue with the car, you should use an advanced OBD2 scanner compatible with your vehicle.

• Step Three: Fixing the Issue

Replace or fix the malfunctioning parts depending on the trouble code.

• Step Four: Clear Codes

Press the "Erase" button to clear all the trouble codes. Switch off the ignition and restart the vehicle to see if the issue still exists.

Conclusion

The power steering light notifies you if the steering system is defective. Thus, you must carefully check your car's steering system after this light comes on. Use the appropriate tool to understand the faults, which will help you fix the problem efficiently and fast.

With the electronic power steering system, check for any fault connection from the battery. If this problem happens after changing the battery, just turn off and on your vehicles to solve the issue. If the problem persists, you need to seek professional advice.