Hydraulic-assisted steering systems are not standard on many new vehicles manufactured in the last 10 to 15 years. The manufacturers use electronically assisted steering instead, which is a proven method of increasing vehicle efficiency. As a result, the steering system is given different amounts of power based on the driving scenario.
Because modern vehicles have multiple computer systems, steering systems are increasingly capable of storing data, activating fault codes, and displaying warning messages. What does ‘Steering Assist Is Reduced: Drive With Care’ mean in cars manufactured by automakers like Chevrolet? It is one of the warning messages that can indicate an issue with the steering system. We’ll cover everything you need to know about causes, fixes, and repair costs.
What Does The Steering Assist Warning Message Mean?
An electrical, engine, or steering malfunction will trigger this warning message. As a result of this message, the steering system cannot provide full steering assistance, resulting in a much greater amount of effort required to turn the steering wheel. Hence, the ‘drive with caution’ part of the message is based on the fact that reduced steering assist can create a safety hazard. It will take a while for your steering response to respond if you’ve never driven a vehicle without power steering. Thus, driving with caution and increasing your following distance is recommended until the problem can be resolved.
Symptoms
Steering assist error messages are most commonly reported with the following symptoms:
Causes
Various faults can cause steering assist warnings, which may not necessarily be steering-related. Here are some of the most common causes:
Fixes that might work
Depending on the vehicle, repair costs and/or actual repairs may vary. This error message is most commonly displayed on Chevrolet vehicles. The problem can affect the Chevrolet Traverse, Silverado, Malibu, and Cruze in particular. The message can, however, be displayed on other makes and models as well.
It is recommended that the on-board diagnostic system be scanned before any repair attempts are made. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) are not always stored when the steering assist message appears. A variety of services can scan your system, including emissions testing, auto repair, and even your local parts store. Alternatively, if you are having trouble, you can reset the ‘Steering Assist Is Reduced: Drive With Car’ message from these places. Steering system malfunctions are commonly associated with the following fault codes:
Low Battery Voltage
For computer-controlled systems, the battery voltage must be correct. In the event of a low battery voltage, the Powertrain Control Module will run the engine first, reducing the power to the accessories. When the electronic power steering system is disabled, turning the steering wheel will be more difficult. Several factors can contribute to low battery voltage, including a defective battery, a worn alternator, a loose accessory belt, and poor wiring. Check the battery and charging voltage if your vehicle displays ‘Steering Assist Is Reduced: Drive With Care’ warning message.
Engine Thermostat Replacement
An engine’s temperature must be maintained at the specified level for it to operate properly; if it isn’t, the transmission and steering may be affected as well. Keeping the engine temperature within the designated range is the responsibility of the engine thermostat. A steering warning message is often accompanied by an error code P0128. This indicates that your engine thermostat needs to be replaced. It is always recommended, however, to perform a thorough inspection to make sure no parts are faulty.
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement
PCM, EPS, and other modules receive engine temperature information from the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (ECT). There can be a variety of faults if the cooling system components are functioning as they should, but the necessary information is not being sent to the computer modules. A steering message may be displayed if your engine’s ECT sensor is malfunctioning.
EPS Module Calibration
The power steering system has been affected by improper calibration of the EPS module. Safety recalls, warranty enhancements, and service campaigns were most commonly the result of these scenarios. The manufacturer’s dealership service center can update the EPS module if you suspect it needs it.
Estimated repair costs
The exact cost of the repair will depend on the reason for the fault, as we mentioned previously. Battery, alternator, or accessory belt replacement are the most common ways to repair low voltage faults. Approximately $370 is the estimated cost of replacing a battery on RepairPal. Depending on the type and location of the battery, this number will vary. It is usually possible to keep the cost of replacing a battery to around $150 if you buy the battery from a parts store and replace it yourself.
It will cost around $120 to replace an accessory belt. Performing the job yourself will cost about half as much. It can cost $650 to $850 to replace an alternator, including parts and labor. An engine thermostat can cost around $500, which is more than expected. Performing the repair yourself can save you a lot of money. It can cost as much as $400 to replace an engine coolant temperature sensor.
There is a likelihood that the cost of repairing the issue causing the power steering warning message will exceed what was expected. You should address the increased steering effort as soon as possible, since it does pose a safety risk. Checking the simple fixes first or performing the repairs yourself can save you some money on automotive repairs. A simple update may be all that is needed to fix an out-of-date calibration file in the power steering module. Depending on the update, it can cost as little as free or as much as $150.
Conclusion
There may be something other than a big problem causing the warning message. A problem with the electrical system may be the cause. In order to prevent this from happening. Checking the engine for problems is the best course of action.
Running tests on the car should reveal what’s wrong. Mechanics must be consulted if the diagnostic errors do not disappear on their own.
You can clear the code by repeatedly turning the car off and on if the problem is small. Starting the car sends a signal to all electrical parts, which reset themselves.
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FAQs
How does steering assist reduced work?
The ECM sends a bad signal about the coolant temperature that causes the Steering Assist Reduced problem. To compensate for cold grease that is thick, the steering module looks for the correct water temperature. Grease thickens up when it gets cold and becomes more difficult to move. As a result, the turning may feel heavier than it should.
Is it possible to drive with a power steering assist fault?
Whenever the power steering pump is working, cars with power steering should be driven. It is recommended that you wait to drive the car until you have repaired the power steering pump if the power steering stops working.
Why does steering assist come on?
It often appears because the battery voltage is low and there is a trouble code stored in the steering assist control module. The power steering control box or thermostat could also be faulty.
What is power steering assist failure?
A low level of power steering fluid, low power steering fluid pressure, or loose or stuck steering or suspension parts are usually the culprits of loss of power assist. It’s easy to figure out what the problem is.
What is the steering assist symbol?
How does the steering assist symbol lookhands are not on the wheel. This is followed by turning off the steering assist. There are two red hands on top of a grayscale wheel.