Error Code P0553: What It Means & What To Do?

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P0553 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input". This generic powertrain diagnostic trouble code (DTC) typically applies to all OBD-II vehicles equipped with a power steering pressure sensor. P0553 Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit High code is set when the ECM/PCM monitors an electrical value higher than desired within the input circuit. This code is thrown by the ECM because of an electrical issue but at times, mechanical problems could possibly be the cause.

OBD-II Code P0553 is technically described as a Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit High. The ECM illuminates the check engine light with P0553 and associated codes when it recognizes one or multiples condition outside a specific desired range within the power steering pressure sensor circuit. The Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) works in conjunction with the power steering pressure sensor to monitor the pressure within the system and adjust accordingly. When the PCM do not receive the signal from the PSP sensor that’s proportional with the steering angle sensor then the check engine light will illuminate and P0553 code is stored.

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

• Leakage of power steering fluid
• Damaged or broken wiring and connector
• Faulty power steering pressure sensor
• Faulty power steering pump
• Rack and pinion failure
• Loose connection at the sensor
• Incorrect level of power steering fluid

1. Power Steering Fluid - Power-steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid that transmits the power in power steering. Always top up the level of power steering fluid if you find its level low and replace the burnt and dirty one to avoid related trouble codes. If the power steering fluid is dirty or its level is lower than required; it may lead to major issues in short span of time.
2. Power Steering Pressure Sensor - Power steering pressure (PSP) sensor here is the main cause for storing this trouble code. 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. Faulty PSP sensor will always create wrong signals and need to be replaced as soon as possible.
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 and a faulty power steering pump can lead to hard steering which can even lead to accident as well. Make sure it is working efficiently to avoid the associated error codes and accidents.
4. ECM/PCM - The Engine Control Module (also called the Powertrain Control Module or PCM) is the brains of the engine management system. It controls the fuel mixture, ignition timing, variable cam timing and emissions control. If the brain is out of control how does the body will work; same goes with your vehicle if the ECM is not working efficiently than your vehicle will not work smoothly.
5. Wiring or Connector - One should always inspect the wiring and connector carefully as sometimes these can even become the main cause for storing the trouble codes. Always repair or replace the damaged and corroded wiring and connectors as these could also become the cause for storing this trouble code.

Some common symptoms of the trouble code P0553 are as follows:

• Power steering fluid leak
• Engine stalling at low speed
• Erratic idle
• Trouble in steer
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Illuminated check engine light

Due to this trouble code most of the drivers face problem of hard steering and engine stalling which actually makes the driving challenging. This code has to be resolved as soon as it discovered if you want no problems in drivability. To fix this code following repair and replacements may help:

• Inspect the PSP sensor carefully and replace it if found faulty.
• Repair the source of leakage of power steering fluid.
• Replace the defective power steering pump.
• Check the wiring, circuits and connections, repair or replace the damaged ones.
• Replace the dirty power steering fluid.

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The step by step analysis and diagnosis is recommended by a qualified technician using high grade diagnostic tools to check for all the problems and solving them.

• A suitable OBD-II scanner (or code reader) and a digital volt/ohmmeter will be most helpful in performing a successful diagnosis.
• Begin with a visual inspection of all wiring and connectors.
• Repair or replace damaged, disconnected, shorted, or corroded wiring, connectors, and components as necessary.
• Continue by clearing the code and operating the vehicle to see if it returns.
• This will help to determine whether or not the malfunction is intermittent.
• Proceed with your diagnosis with a visual inspection of the power steering system.
• Make sure that there are no fluid leaks and that power steering fluid is clean and of the correct type.
• Visually inspect the power steering pressure sensor, as well as the electrical wiring and connectors for signs of damage from corrosion, burning, or fluid contamination.
• Repair or replace faulty components as required. If the power steering fluid is clean and there are no leaks present and no wiring or connectors are damaged, then connect the scanner (or code reader) and make a note of all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data.
• Test drive the vehicle and see if the code persists; if it does, then proceed with the diagnostic strategy. Disconnect the power steering pressure sensor connector and check sensor resistance using the digital volt/ohmmeter.
• If the sensor checks out, test the sensor connector for voltage and ground signals.
• If no voltage and ground signals are detected, disconnect the PCM connector and perform a continuity test on the entire circuit in order to isolate a possible malfunction and repair open or shorted wiring as required.
• If voltage and ground signals are present, connect the manual power steering pressure gauge.
• Use caution when testing system pressure, as levels can reach the extremes.
• Consult your vehicle’s service manual and compare your findings, replace or repair power steering system components as needed.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0553 Code

While diagnosing this code, it is always suggested to turn off the engine first, and let it cool down and always wear personal protective equipment for your safety. These systems use high pressures that could cause harm so be careful, pinhole leaks are dangerous and are a serious hazard. If you are not familiar with the dangers of working with hydraulic systems, please bring your vehicle to a reputable repair facility. People usually ignore these things and commit mistakes.