December 31, 2025
92The 'Service Power Steering' warning indicates a fault in your electric power steering (EPS) system, which can prevent your car from starting as a safety precaution. This is particularly common in modern UK models like the Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Focus, and Nissan Qashqai that use electric rather than hydraulic power steering systems.
When this warning appears, your power steering assistance will be either significantly reduced or completely disabled, making the steering wheel much harder to turn. Unlike older hydraulic systems where you could check fluid levels, modern EPS systems require professional diagnosis using specialist equipment. The system may prevent the engine from starting if it detects a critical fault to avoid potential safety issues while driving.
For UK drivers, the immediate action should be:
- Do not attempt to drive the vehicle if the steering feels abnormally heavy
- Contact your local dealership or approved repair centre (especially important for vehicles still under warranty like most 2020+ models)
- For emergency situations, contact your breakdown cover provider
Common causes in UK vehicles include:
- Faulty steering angle sensor (common in Peugeot 208 and Citroen C3)
- EPS control module failure
- Electrical connection issues (particularly in damp UK weather conditions)
- Battery voltage problems (as the EPS system requires stable power)
Regular maintenance checks should include visual inspection of steering components and ensuring your vehicle's battery is in good condition, as weak batteries are a frequent cause of EPS warnings in UK winters.