P0552 Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Low

P0552 – OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

The P0552 code indicates that the PCM has detected a problem with the power steering pressure sensor circuit. Other power steering related error codes may also appear along with this code, such as the code P0551.

What does the fault code mean P0552?

Trouble code P0552 indicates a problem with the power steering pressure sensor circuit. This code means that the engine control module (PCM) has detected abnormal signals from the power steering pressure sensor.

The power steering pressure sensor, like the steering angle sensor, regularly sends voltage signals to the PCM. The PCM, in turn, compares the signals from both sensors. If the PCM detects that the signals from both sensors are out of sync, a P0552 code will appear. As a rule, this problem occurs when the car is moving at low engine speeds.

Other power steering related error codes may also appear along with this code, such as the code P0551.

Possible reasons

Some possible reasons for the P0552 trouble code:

• Pressure sensor malfunction: The power steering pressure sensor itself may become damaged or fail due to physical damage or wear.
• Wiring or connectors: Damaged wiring or improperly connected connectors associated with the pressure sensor can cause P0552.
• Power steering problems: Some faults in the power steering itself can cause this error to appear.
• Problems with PCM: In rare cases, the cause may be a problem with the engine control module (PCM) itself, which is unable to correctly interpret the signals from the pressure sensor.
• Electrical interference: Electrical noise in the power supply may cause the pressure sensor signals to be incorrectly read.

These are just some of the possible reasons. Detailed diagnostics may be necessary to accurately identify and correct the problem.

What are the symptoms of a fault code? P0552?

Some of the possible symptoms that may accompany the P0552 trouble code are:

• Difficulty turning the steering wheel: The driver may notice that the vehicle becomes more difficult to control, especially when driving slowly or parking. This may be caused by the power steering not functioning properly due to a problem with the pressure sensor.
• Unusual sounds from the power steering: Knocking, grinding or humming noises may occur from the power steering due to unstable pressure caused by a faulty sensor.
• Check Engine Light: When the P0552 code appears, the Check Engine light on the instrument panel will turn on.
• Other error codes: Code P0552 may be accompanied by other error codes related to the power steering or the power system in general.
• Increased effort when turning the steering wheel: In rare cases, the driver may feel increased effort when turning the steering wheel due to instability of the power steering.

Please note that symptoms may vary depending on the specific problem and type of vehicle.

How to diagnose a fault code P0552?

The following steps are recommended to diagnose DTC P0552:

1. Check pressure sensor connections: Check the condition and reliability of all electrical connections associated with the power steering pressure sensor. Make sure the connectors are securely attached and not damaged or oxidized.
2. Check the pressure sensor: Using a multimeter, check the resistance and output voltage of the pressure sensor. Compare the values ​​obtained with the specifications listed in the repair manual for your specific vehicle.
3. Check the power steering system pressure: Using a pressure gauge, check the actual pressure in the power steering system. Compare it with the manufacturer's recommended values.
4. Diagnostics using scanning: Use the scan tool to read other trouble codes that may accompany P0552, as well as to view live data related to power steering system pressure.
5. Check the oil in the power steering system: Ensure that the power steering oil level and condition are within the manufacturer's recommendations.
6. Check the engine control module (PCM): If necessary, perform additional diagnostics on the engine control module (PCM) to rule out possible problems with the control module itself.

After performing diagnostics and identifying the cause of the malfunction, you can begin the necessary repair work or replacement of components.

Diagnostic errors

When diagnosing DTC P0552, the following errors may occur:

• Ignoring other error codes: Sometimes a mechanic may focus only on the P0552 code while ignoring other related trouble codes. However, other error codes can provide additional information about the root of the problem, so it is important to consider them when diagnosing.
• Faulty pressure sensor diagnosis: If the pressure sensor is not properly diagnosed or all possible causes of malfunction are not considered, it may lead to erroneous conclusions about its condition.
• Unaccounted for electrical problems: Performing diagnostics without properly checking the electrical connections, wiring, and connectors may result in problems related to the pressure sensor electrical circuit being missed.
• Misinterpretation of live data: Incorrect understanding and interpretation of data received from the diagnostic scanner may lead to incorrect conclusions about the condition of the power steering system and pressure sensor.
• Neglecting manufacturer's recommendations: Incorrect interpretation or ignoring the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for diagnostics and repairs can also lead to errors in the diagnostic process.

To avoid these errors, it is important to carry out a thorough and comprehensive diagnosis, taking into account all possible causes of the malfunction and following the manufacturer's recommendations.

How serious is the fault code? P0552?

Trouble code P0552 indicates a problem with the power steering pressure sensor. This can lead to various driving problems, especially at low engine speeds.

Although power steering problems themselves can make your vehicle more difficult to drive, a P0552 code is usually not critical or dangerous to drive. However, ignoring this problem can result in poor vehicle handling and an increased risk of an accident, especially when maneuvering at low speeds or parking.

Therefore, although this error is not an emergency, it is recommended that you pay attention to it and begin diagnosing and repairing the problem as soon as possible to avoid possible problems on the road.

What repairs will resolve the P0552 code?

To resolve DTC P0552, follow these steps:

1. Checking and replacing the pressure sensor: The first step is to check the status of the power steering pressure sensor. If the sensor is detected as faulty, it should be replaced with a new one. Make sure the new sensor meets your vehicle's requirements and specifications.
2. Checking electrical connections: Check all electrical connections, wires and connectors associated with the pressure sensor. Make sure the connections are secure and free from oxidation or damage. If necessary, replace or repair electrical wires.
3. Diagnosis of the power steering system: Check the overall operation of the power steering system. Make sure that the oil level in the system meets the manufacturer's recommendations and that the system is functioning without problems.
4. Reset error: After replacing the sensor or correcting other problems with the power steering system, use a diagnostic scan tool to clear P0552 from the vehicle control module (PCM).
5. Check for leaks: Check the system for oil or hydraulic fluid leaks that could cause the power steering system to lose pressure.

After completing all the necessary steps, you should test the vehicle to see if the P0552 error code appears again. If the code does not appear after this, then the problem has been successfully resolved. If the error continues to occur, a more in-depth diagnosis or consultation with a professional auto mechanic may be required.

What is P0552 Engine Code [Quick Guide]

P0552 – Brand-specific information

Trouble code P0552 relates to the power steering system and can be applied to various makes of vehicles, the code for several popular brands:

• Chevrolet / GMC / Cadillac: Code P0552 stands for “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Low Voltage.”
• Ford: This code means “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Error.”
• Toyota: For Toyota, code P0552 indicates “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Voltage Low.”
• Honda: For Honda, code P0552 means “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Failure.”
• BMW: This code indicates “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Voltage Low.”

This is just a small list of car brands for which the P0552 code applies. For more accurate information and decoding of the code, it is recommended to contact the documentation or service department of the manufacturer of your specific car.