P0550 OBD-II: Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
P0550 Severity
Will P0550 go away on its own?
Once the vehicle's onboard system no longer detects the issue, most codes will disappear on their own. If your vehicle still has this code, however, it should be properly diagnosed to avoid a more serious problem.
For a proper diagnosis, RepairPal Certified shops have the equipment, tools, and expertise.
Moderate severity codes might not threaten the vehicle's safety or functionality immediately, but you should still get it diagnosed within a reasonable time frame to keep your car running well.
What causes OBD-II fault code P0550?
The Power Steering Pressure Sensor tells the engine control module (PCM) that the engine idle speed needs to to be held at a specified level while the driver is operating the Power Steering System at slow vehicle speeds. This is because high levels of hydraulic pressure are needed from the Power Steering Pump in order for the Power Steering system to steer the vehicle at slow speeds. Creating this pressure puts additional load on the engine and commonly occurs when parking the vehicle. When the PCM detects an inaccurate or irrational signal, it sets code P0550.
What Does P0550 Code Mean?
OBD-II Code P0550 is defined as a Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
The Power Steering Pressure Sensor tells the engine control module (PCM) that the engine idle speed needs to to be held at a specified level while the driver is operating the Power Steering System at slow vehicle speeds. This is because high levels of hydraulic pressure are needed from the Power Steering Pump in order for the Power Steering system to steer the vehicle at slow speeds. Creating this pressure puts additional load on the engine and commonly occurs when parking the vehicle. When the PCM detects an inaccurate or irrational signal, it sets code P0550.
P0550 Symptoms
- Engine may stall when pulling into a parking spot
Common Problems That Trigger the P0550 Code
- Power steering pressure sensor failure
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure
- Wiring issue
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