What Does P0553 Mean?
The ECM has detected that the power steering pressure sensor circuit is producing a voltage signal above the maximum acceptable threshold. This high-input condition typically indicates an open ground circuit at the sensor, an open signal wire with a pull-up to reference voltage, or a failed sensor with high internal resistance. The ECM may unnecessarily raise idle speed, believing high steering load is present.
Common Causes
35%
Open ground wire or corroded ground pin at the PSP sensor connector preventing proper signal return
30%
Failed power steering pressure sensor with open internal circuit causing the signal to float to reference voltage
20%
Signal wire shorted to the 5V reference wire or to battery voltage due to harness damage
15%
Backed-out pin or open circuit in the signal wire between PSP sensor and ECM
Diagnostic Steps
1
Step 1: Inspect the PSP sensor connector for backed-out pins, corrosion, and proper terminal tension. Check the ground pin connection specifically, as an open ground is the most common cause of high-voltage sensor readings.
2
Step 2: Disconnect the PSP sensor and measure the voltage on the signal wire at the ECM connector side. If it reads near 5V, the ECM pull-up is working and the issue is in the sensor or its ground circuit.
3
Step 3: With the sensor disconnected, use a jumper wire to ground the signal pin at the sensor connector. If the ECM reading drops to near 0V, the wiring is intact and the sensor has failed open.
4
Step 4: Check continuity of the ground wire from the sensor connector to the ECM or chassis ground point. An open ground will cause the signal to float high. Measure less than 1 ohm for a good ground path.
5
Step 5: Replace the PSP sensor if it has failed open. If wiring was repaired, verify proper crimps and solder joints. Clear codes and verify the sensor signal responds proportionally to steering wheel 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 above the maximum acceptable threshold. This high-input condition typically indicates an open ground circuit at the sensor, an open signal wire with a pull-up to reference voltage, or a failed sensor w...
The most common cause of P0553 (Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input) is: Open ground wire or corroded ground pin at the PSP sensor connector preventing proper signal return
Typical repair costs for P0553 range from $40 to $200, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
A stuck-high PSP signal may cause the ECM to increase idle speed unnecessarily, as it perceives constant high steering load. This results in elevated idle speed but is not directly hazardous.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0553 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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