P0552 - OBD Trouble Code

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P0552 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Low Input". It indicates that PCM has detected a fault in the power steering pressure sensor circuit. This code is set when a low voltage from the Power Steering Pressure Sensor is sent to Engine Control Module (ECM). Due to this code your vehicle might face problems like engine stalling, power steering fluid leakage or decrease in fuel efficiency. This code should be resolved as soon as it is discovered to avoid any major issue in near future.

OBD II Code P0552 is technically described as Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit Low. This code is set when PCM has failed to receive a voltage input signal from the power steering pressure sensor that is proportionate to the steering angle sensor input signal. This problem normally occurs more frequently at low vehicle speeds. The ECM illuminates the check engine light with P0552 and associated codes when it recognizes one or multiples condition outside a specific desired range within the power steering pressure sensors circuit.

P0552 Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Low code is set when the ECM/PCM monitors an electrical value lower than desired within the input circuit.

What causes this problem with the Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Low Input?

• Faulty power steering pressure sensor
• Leakage of power steering fluid
• Power steering pump failure
• Damaged or corroded connectors
• Poor electrical connection
• ECM issue
  

1. ECM - The Engine Control Module (ECM) provides the brains for the engine of the vehicle. In addition to controlling the fuel mixture, the ECM also makes sure the timing and emissions control system work properly, as well as a variety of other systems and sensors. If you want your vehicle to run smoothly make sure your ECM is working fine.
2. Power Steering Pressure Sensor - The purpose of the Power Steering Pressure Sensor is to alert the PCM that the engine idle speed needs to be held at a specified level while the driver is operating the Power Steering System at slow vehicle speeds. Replace the faulty power steering pressure sensor in no time to avoid all the related trouble codes.
3. Power Steering Pump - A power steering pump provides the required hydraulic pressure to steer your automobile with a minimal effort on the steering wheel. Repair or replace the faulty one as soon as you find it malfunctioned because the faulty pump can lead to a problematic drivability.
4. Power Steering Fluid - Power-steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid that transmits the power in power steering. Make sure you have clean and perfect level of power steering fluid in your vehicle.

To identify any trouble code, one should be aware of the symptoms of that trouble code. Some common symptoms of the error code P0552 are as follows:

• Stalling of engine
• Erratic idle
• Problem to steer
• Leakage of power steering fluid
• Reduced fuel efficiency

It is very important to fix this code as soon as possible because your vehicle won’t work correctly until you get this issue addressed. However, the severity of this code is rated as low because it won’t give you any serious drivability problem but a problem would not be resolved until addressed. To fix this code you can do the following repairs and replacements:

• Begin with Power steering pressure sensor, inspect it carefully and replace it if found faulty.
• Replace the faulty power steering pump.
• Replace the dirty power steering fluid.
• Check the corresponding wiring and connectors. Repair or replace the damaged, corroded or broken wiring and connectors.

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Here are some steps which one should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• Check your power steering fluid level and top up as necessary.
• Take a good look at the sensor itself as these sensors leak through the sensor itself, so make sure it's dry and there are no obvious signs of damage and/or leaks.
• To rule out the sensor, you will need to test it. Usually, the sensor itself is mounted to a power steering pressure line.
• Locate the electrical connector on the pressure sensor. Inspect for any oil residue/soaking. If the connector is soaked in oil, obviously the leak is a problem but the oil must be cleaned before reconnecting. A connector showing signs of melting and/or corrosion must be repaired.
• Fasten any loose lines, especially the one with the sensor mounted to it.
• Using multimeter, verify the integrity of the power steering pressure sensor circuit(s).

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0552 Code

The biggest mistake which usually people do while diagnosing this code is the replacement of idle air control system which happens because of not following the diagnosing steps. Always keep in mind that if you are facing any kind of difficulty while diagnosing this code seek the help of an experienced diagnostician.