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P0554 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Intermittent". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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The P0554 code is present because your vehicle’s PCM detected that there was a problem with the power steering pressure sensor circuit.
The power steering high-pressure tube houses the power steering pressure (PSP) sensor. This important component is responsible for measuring power steering load. As a potentiometer, it is able to transform the power steering load into output village. Then, it sends a signal to the vehicle’s PCM reporting on the power steering load.
When it receives this message, the ECM reacts by adjusting the throttle valve opening angle, thereby increasing the engine speed and adjusting the idle speed for the greater load.
This code signifies that the PCM didn’t receive a voltage indicator from the power steering pressure sensor that was in proportion to the steering angle sensor input signal. Usually, this problem occurs at low speeds.
With some vehicles, this issue will have to occur more than once before the Check Engine Light comes on. Still, a code should be registered as an initial failure (e.g. a “pending code”).
By far, the most likely reason for a P0554 code being stored is that the power steering pressure sensor is faulty or otherwise not working correctly.
This isn’t the only possibility, though. Others include:
In some cases, the driver may actually not notice any adverse symptoms in relation to code P0554. This is incredibly rare, though. Instead, any number of things could go wrong.
For example, power steering fluid may actually leak out. During low vehicle speed maneuvers, the engine may simply stall out. You can expect that fuel efficiency will suffer from these kinds of problems too. These are just a few of the more common ramifications that are symptoms of the P0554 code.
A qualified mechanic will use an OBD-II scanner to begin their diagnosis. By using this, they’ll know about the P0554 code and any others that may have been stored.
Then they’ll move onto a visual inspection of the vehicle’s wiring and connectors. Next, the mechanic will examine the power steering system, including the fluid and power steering pressure sensor. They may even disconnect the latter and use a digital ohmmeter to check its resistance.
A lot of mechanics mistakenly blame the idle air control system for code P0554. That’s because – as we mentioned earlier – one of the symptoms of this code is that the vehicle’s engine stalls out at low speeds. Unfortunately, they then go ahead with replacing the idle air control motor when something far simpler is usually responsible.
If you enjoy your power steering, you’ll definitely want to get this problem addressed ASAP. Most people don’t realize how helpful power steering is until they suddenly lose it. For those who are dealing with a vehicle that now stalls out when they’re driving slowly, getting this frustrating problem fixed is a huge priority.
However, it’s not as though P0544 code represents a potentially lethal problem. In fact, many drivers report no adverse effects at all.
If you notice that the steering fluid has a burnt smell to it, you’ll want to find out if any of your vehicle’s parts had been burned or otherwise damaged as this could represent a problem lying in wait.
If your vehicle needs repairs, fill out this online form to receive a quick quote and, if you like, set up an appointment. You can also speak to one of our service advisors at 1-800-701-6230. Once you’ve scheduled with us, we’ll dispatch a certified mobile mechanic who can repair your vehicle, onsite, at either your home of place of work.
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