In our latest article, we tackle the puzzling issue of the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message that appears on your car’s dashboard.
This message can be an indication of a software or hardware problem with your power steering system. The good news is that there are several ways to reset the steering assist, including restarting the vehicle, disconnecting the battery, resetting the steering wheel, or using a scanner tool.
However, it’s important to understand that there can be various reasons for this error message, ranging from low battery voltage to defective power steering parts.
The cost of fixing the issue can also vary, depending on the specific problem. So, let us guide you through the steps and provide you with more context about how to reset steering assist and get back on the road safely.
Resetting the Steering Assist
The “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message on a car’s dashboard is a cause for concern, as it indicates a software or hardware issue with the power steering system.
However, there are several steps you can take to reset the steering assist and potentially resolve the problem. Let’s explore the different methods in detail.
Restarting the Vehicle
One of the easiest ways to reset the steering assist is by restarting the vehicle. This method is simple and often effective in resolving minor software glitches.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Park the vehicle in a safe location and ensure it is in the neutral gear.
- Turn off the engine completely and remove the key from the ignition.
- Wait for a few minutes to allow the internal systems to fully shut down.
- Start the vehicle again and check if the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message has disappeared.
By restarting the vehicle, you essentially give the power steering system a fresh start, allowing it to recalibrate itself and potentially resolve any temporary issues causing the error message.
Disconnecting the Battery
If restarting the vehicle doesn’t reset the steering assist, you can try disconnecting the battery to clear any persistent software errors.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Park the vehicle in a safe location and ensure it is in the neutral gear.
- Turn off the engine completely and remove the key from the ignition.
- Locate the vehicle’s battery, which is usually found under the hood or in the trunk.
- Carefully disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. It is typically identified by a “-” symbol.
- Leave the battery disconnected for about 15 minutes to ensure all residual power is drained from the system.
- Reconnect the negative terminal securely and ensure it is tightly fastened.
- Start the vehicle again and check if the error message persists.
Disconnecting the battery allows the power steering system to reset completely and clear any software errors that may be causing the issue.
Resetting the Steering Wheel
Another method to consider is resetting the steering wheel. Sometimes a misaligned steering wheel can trigger the error message.
Here’s how you can reset it:
- Park the vehicle in a safe location and ensure it is in the neutral gear.
- Turn off the engine completely and remove the key from the ignition.
- Ensure the wheels of the vehicle are in a straight position.
- Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands.
- Turn the ignition to the “Acc” or “On” position without starting the vehicle.
- Wait for several seconds, allowing the power steering system to recalibrate its position.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key.
- Start the vehicle again and check if the error message has been resolved.
Resetting the steering wheel ensures that the power steering system recognizes the correct position of the wheel, eliminating any potential misalignment issues that may trigger the error message.
Using a Scanner Tool
If the previous methods haven’t resolved the steering assist issue, using a scanner tool can help pinpoint and reset the specific trouble codes related to the power steering system.
Here’s the process:
- Park the vehicle in a safe location and ensure it is in the neutral gear.
- Turn off the engine completely and remove the key from the ignition.
- Locate the OBD-II port, typically located beneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Connect the scanner tool to the OBD-II port securely.
- Follow the instructions provided by the scanner tool’s manufacturer to access the power steering system.
- Utilize the scanner tool to read and clear any trouble codes associated with the power steering system.
- Reset the steering assist through the scanner tool.
- Start the vehicle again and check if the error message has disappeared.
Using a scanner tool allows for a more precise diagnosis of the problem and provides the ability to reset the steering assist directly from the tool.
Possible Reasons for the Error Message
Understanding the possible reasons behind the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message can help you better troubleshoot and address the issue.
Here are some potential causes:
Low Battery Voltage
Low battery voltage can cause various electrical malfunctions in a vehicle, including issues with the power steering system. Insufficient power can disrupt the operation of the sensors and modules responsible for steering assist. To address this problem:
- Check the battery voltage using a multimeter or have it tested at a local auto parts store.
- If the battery voltage is low, charge or replace the battery as necessary to ensure adequate power supply to the power steering system.
Low Power Steering Fluid Level
Insufficient power steering fluid can also trigger the error message. A low fluid level may cause air to get into the system or restrict the smooth operation of the power steering pump.
To address this issue:
- Locate the power steering fluid reservoir, typically near the engine compartment.
- Check the fluid level by removing the cap and observing the dipstick or indicator on the reservoir.
- If the fluid level is low, add power steering fluid according to the manufacturer’s specifications to bring it to the appropriate level.
Stored Trouble Codes
The onboard diagnostic system in modern vehicles stores trouble codes whenever it detects abnormalities in various systems, including the power steering system. These trouble codes can provide valuable insights into the underlying issue.
To address this problem:
- Use an OBD-II scanner tool to retrieve the trouble codes associated with the power steering system.
- Read the trouble codes and use the scanner tool’s function to clear them.
- Reset the steering assist through the scanner tool, allowing the system to recalibrate and potentially resolve the error message.
Jammed Open Thermostat
In some cases, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause the engine to overheat and trigger the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message. An overheated engine can affect the power steering system’s performance.
To address this issue:
- Have the thermostat inspected and tested by a qualified mechanic.
- If the thermostat is jammed open, causing the engine to overheat, have it replaced to restore proper operation.
Broken Sensors
Sensors play a crucial role in the power steering system, providing valuable input for steering assist functionality. If one or more sensors become damaged or malfunction, it can lead to the error message.
To address this problem:
- Have the power steering system’s sensors inspected by a professional mechanic.
- If any sensors are found to be faulty, have them replaced to ensure accurate input for the steering assist function.
Defective Steering Assist Module
The steering assist module is responsible for controlling the power steering system’s operation. If the module becomes defective, it can cause the error message to appear.
To address this issue:
- Have the steering assist module tested by a qualified technician.
- If the module is found to be defective, have it replaced to restore proper functioning of the power steering system.
Defective Power Steering Parts
Various components in the power steering system, such as the pump, hoses, or rack and pinion, can become defective over time and trigger the error message.
To address this problem:
- Have the power steering components inspected by a professional mechanic.
- If any parts are found to be defective, have them replaced to ensure optimal performance of the power steering system.
Cost of Fixing the Steering Assist Issue
The cost of fixing the steering assist issue can vary depending on the specific problem.
Here are some potential cost factors to consider:
Battery Replacement
If the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message is caused by low battery voltage, the cost will primarily involve replacing the battery.
Battery prices can vary based on the type, size, and brand. Generally, the cost can range from around $100 to $300, including installation.
Labor Costs
For more complex issues, such as diagnosing and repairing broken sensors, defective power steering parts, or a malfunctioning steering assist module, labor costs will come into play.
Labor rates can vary depending on the region and the mechanic’s expertise, but generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $150 per hour.
Parts Replacement
If any power steering components need to be replaced, such as the power steering pump, hoses, or rack and pinion, the cost will depend on the specific parts required for your vehicle.
Prices can range from $100 for small components to several hundred dollars for larger and more complex parts.
It’s important to note that these costs are estimates and can vary significantly depending on factors such as the vehicle make and model, location, and the severity of the issue.
To get an accurate cost estimate, it is recommended to consult with a trusted mechanic or dealership.
In conclusion, encountering the “Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care” message on your car’s dashboard can be worrisome, but there are various methods to reset the steering assist and potentially resolve the issue.
From restarting the vehicle to using a scanner tool, each method offers a different approach to tackle the problem.
By understanding the possible reasons behind the error message and considering the associated costs, you can navigate this issue with confidence and ensure the smooth operation of your vehicle’s power steering system.