AutoCodes – Generic – P0551

P0551 Code - Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

Power steering pressure (PSP) sensor is installed to the power steering high-pressure tube and detects a power steering load. Common causes include Faulty Power Steering Pressure Sensor, Power Steering Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Power Steering Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0551 indicates Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Power Steering Pressure Sensor, Power Steering Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted, Power Steering Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 16,439

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0551 Description

Power steering pressure (PSP) sensor is installed to the power steering high-pressure tube and detects a power steering load. This sensor is a potentiometer which transforms the power steering load into output voltage, and emits the voltage signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM controls the electric throttle control actuator and adjusts the throttle valve opening angle to increase the engine speed and adjusts the idle speed for the increased load.

OBDII Code P0551 - Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0551 Code - Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0551?

Faulty Power Steering Pressure Sensor
Power Steering Pressure Sensor harness is open or shorted
Power Steering Pressure Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0551?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0551 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0551 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0551 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0551 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0551 Chrysler — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 Dodge — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 Jeep — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 KIA — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 Mazda — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 Mercedes-Benz — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance
P0551 Mitsubishi — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0551 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0551 related to the power steering pressure sensor circuit?

- Common symptoms include stiff or hard steering, power steering failure, illuminated power steering warning light on the dashboard, and potential loss of power steering assistance.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0551?

- The code P0551 can be caused by a faulty power steering pressure sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the power steering system, low power steering fluid level, or a malfunctioning power steering pump.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P0551?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use a scan tool to read the OBDII code, inspect the power steering pressure sensor and its wiring for damage, check the power steering fluid level, and perform a thorough visual inspection of the power steering system components.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code P0551?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with OBDII code P0551, as it can lead to safety hazards due to potential power steering failure. It is advisable to address the issue promptly to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0551 related to the power steering pressure sensor circuit?

- Repairing OBDII code P0551 may involve replacing the power steering pressure sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, checking and topping up the power steering fluid, and ensuring proper functioning of the power steering pump.

6. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P0551?

- DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P0551 include checking the power steering fluid level, inspecting the power steering pressure sensor and its wiring for visible damage, and ensuring all connections are secure and free of corrosion.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0551 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the OBDII code P0551 may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the code to prevent it from coming back.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0551 at a professional auto repair shop?

- The cost of repairing OBDII code P0551 at a professional auto repair shop can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, the labor rates of the shop, and the cost of parts needed for the repair. It is recommended to obtain quotes from different shops for comparison.

9. Can extreme weather conditions impact the occurrence of OBDII code P0551?

- Extreme weather conditions, especially cold temperatures, can potentially affect the performance of the power steering system and the power steering pressure sensor, leading to issues that may trigger OBDII code P0551. It is important to monitor the system during such conditions.

10. Is it necessary to have the power steering system inspected regularly to prevent OBDII code P0551?

- Regular inspections of the power steering system, including checking the power steering fluid level, monitoring for any leaks or unusual noises, and ensuring proper functioning of the power steering components, can help prevent issues that may trigger OBDII code P0551. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding such codes.