Quick Answer
P0551 means: P0551 indicates a power steering pressure sensor circuit issue.
Can I drive with P0551? Immediate attention is advised to prevent steering failure.
Common Questions
What does P0551 mean and how does it affect my car?
The P0551 code indicates an issue with the power steering pressure sensor, which can lead to difficulty steering your vehicle. If this code appears, you may experience heavy steering or unusual noises, affecting your driving comfort and safety.
What are the most common causes of P0551 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of P0551 include a faulty power steering pressure sensor, damaged wiring, or low fluid levels. Repair costs can range from $75 for a fluid flush to $300 for sensor replacement depending on the specific issue.
Can I drive my car with P0551 or should I stop immediately?
Driving with a P0551 code is not recommended as it can lead to difficulty steering, especially at low speeds. It's best to address the issue promptly to avoid potential accidents.
How can I diagnose P0551 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose P0551, connect your GeekOBD APP to the OBD2 port, retrieve the codes, and check freeze frame data. Look for any abnormal readings from the power steering pressure sensor to pinpoint issues.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by P0551?
DTC P0551 is most frequently reported in vehicles like the 2010-2015 Honda Accord and the 2007-2012 Toyota Camry. Always check for any recalls associated with your vehicle.
How can I prevent P0551 from happening again?
Regular maintenance, including checking fluid levels and ensuring no wiring damage, can help prevent P0551 from recurring. Periodic inspections of the power steering system are also recommended.
What is P0551?
The DTC code P0551 indicates a problem with the power steering pressure sensor circuit's range or performance. This sensor plays a critical role in ensuring that your vehicle's power steering system operates smoothly. When this code is triggered, it often means that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a voltage that is out of the expected range, indicating a malfunction. Commonly found in vehicles such as the 2010-2015 Honda Accord and the 2007-2012 Toyota Camry, this issue can lead to difficulty steering, especially at low speeds, and can significantly affect driving safety. Ignoring this warning can result in further damage to the power steering system and may lead to complete steering failure, which is dangerous. It’s essential to address this code promptly to ensure the safety and functionality of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and being aware of your vehicle's steering feel can help catch issues early before they escalate into more significant problems.
System: P - Powertrain (Engine, Transmission, Emissions)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when P0551 is present:
- Check engine light remains illuminated, indicating a persistent issue with the power steering system.
- Steering feels heavy or unresponsive, especially during low-speed maneuvers, making driving difficult and potentially unsafe.
- Unusual noises, such as whining or groaning, may be heard when steering, suggesting a problem with the power steering pump or fluid levels.
- Fluid leaks under the vehicle, which can indicate a failure in the power steering system components.
- Increased steering effort, especially when making tight turns, indicating that the power assist is not functioning properly.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of P0551 (ordered by frequency):
- Faulty power steering pressure sensor - This is the most common cause, accounting for approximately 50% of cases. The sensor may fail due to wear and tear or electrical issues.
- Damaged wiring or connectors - Corrosion or physical damage can disrupt the electrical signals, making up about 30% of cases.
- Low power steering fluid - Insufficient fluid can lead to erroneous readings and is a common oversight. Ensure fluid levels are checked regularly to prevent this.
- Power steering pump failure - A less common yet serious issue that can cause a loss of power assist. This is typically a result of wear and should be diagnosed promptly.
- ECM malfunction - A rare cause where the engine control module itself is not interpreting the sensor's signals correctly, which can lead to incorrect fault codes.
P0551 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
Power Steering Pressure Sensor Replacement
Replacing a faulty power steering pressure sensor with an OEM part.
- Total: $150 - $300
- Success rate: 90%
Wiring Repair/Replacement
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors.
- Total: $100 - $200
- Success rate: 85%
Power Steering Fluid Flush
Flushing old fluid and replacing it with new fluid to ensure proper system operation.
- Total: $75 - $150
- Success rate: 80%
Money-Saving Tips for P0551
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional P0551 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose P0551. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes)
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion (5-10 minutes).
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes)
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context (10-15 minutes).
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter to test the power steering pressure sensor for proper voltage readings (20-30 minutes)
Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter to test the power steering pressure sensor for proper voltage readings (20-30 minutes).
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After addressing the issues, verify proper operation and clear codes using GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)
Step 4: System function test - After addressing the issues, verify proper operation and clear codes using GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the repair was successful and the steering operates normally (15-20 minutes)
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm that the repair was successful and the steering operates normally (15-20 minutes).
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: Power Steering Pressure Sensor Replacement on 2012 Honda Accord
Vehicle: 2012 Honda Accord, 85,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported heavy steering and illuminated check engine light.
Diagnosis: Diagnostics revealed P0551 code with low voltage readings from the power steering pressure sensor.
Solution: Replaced the power steering pressure sensor and cleared the codes.
Cost: $220 (sensor $150, labor $70)
Result: The steering felt normal post-repair, and no codes reappeared during follow-up.
Case Study 2: Wiring Repair on 2011 Toyota Camry
Vehicle: 2011 Toyota Camry, 90,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced steering issues and noticed dashboard warning lights.
Diagnosis: Found damaged wiring harness leading to the power steering pressure sensor causing intermittent readings.
Solution: Repaired the wiring and tested the system thoroughly.
Cost: $150 (wiring repair cost)
Result: Steering performance improved significantly, and no further issues reported.