What Does P0552 Mean?
The ECM has detected that the power steering pressure sensor circuit is producing a voltage signal below the minimum acceptable threshold. This low-input condition typically points to a short to ground in the sensor circuit, a failed sensor with low internal resistance, or a lost reference voltage supply. The ECM cannot properly adjust idle speed to compensate for power steering load.
Common Causes
35%
PSP sensor signal wire shorted to ground due to chafed insulation or power steering fluid contamination in the connector
30%
Failed power steering pressure sensor with internal short circuit producing abnormally low voltage output
20%
Lost 5V reference voltage supply to the PSP sensor due to a shorted sensor on a shared reference circuit
15%
Corroded ground connection at the PSP sensor pulling the signal low
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Disconnect the PSP sensor connector and check for power steering fluid contamination inside the connector body. Fluid leaks at the sensor O-ring commonly wick into the connector causing shorts.
2
Step 2: With the sensor disconnected and key on, verify 5V reference voltage is present at the sensor connector. If missing, check the reference voltage circuit for a short that has pulled down the 5V supply (this may affect other sensors sharing the same reference).
3
Step 3: Measure resistance from the signal wire to ground at the ECM connector with the sensor disconnected. Greater than 10k ohms is expected. A low reading indicates a short to ground in the harness.
4
Step 4: If the reference voltage and wiring are intact, measure the sensor output by applying known pressures (or simply comparing output at key-on vs. engine running with steering input). A stuck-low reading confirms a failed sensor.
5
Step 5: Replace the sensor using a new O-ring to prevent future fluid leaks into the connector. Repair any damaged wiring. Clear codes and verify the sensor reads approximately 0.5V at idle with no steering input.
Estimated Repair Cost
$40 - $200
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has detected that the power steering pressure sensor circuit is producing a voltage signal below the minimum acceptable threshold. This low-input condition typically points to a short to ground in the sensor circuit, a failed sensor with low internal resistance, or a lost reference voltage s...
The most common cause of P0552 (Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance) is: PSP sensor signal wire shorted to ground due to chafed insulation or power steering fluid contamination in the connector
Typical repair costs for P0552 range from $40 to $200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
A stuck-low PSP signal may cause the ECM to not compensate idle speed during steering, leading to idle droop or stalling during low-speed parking maneuvers.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0552 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Power Steering / Engine Idle Control System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
OBD2 Scanner
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