Power Steering Fluid Level Sensor/Switch: Description and Operation

On vehicles equipped with a 2.7L engine, the power steering system has a power steering pressure switch which is used to improve the vehicle's idle quality. The pressure switch improves vehicle idle quality by monitoring engine idle speed and causing idle speed readjustment as necessary, due to increased pressure in the power steering system. This increased pressure will slow down the power steering pump which puts more load on the engine, decreasing engine idle speed.

This type of condition exists when turning the front tires of the vehicle when the vehicle is stationary and the engine is at idle speed. The pressure switch signals the powertrain control module that the power steering system is putting additional load on the engine. When this signal is sensed by the powertrain control module, the engine idle speed is adjusted accordingly to maintain proper engine idle speed and quality.

Power Steering Pressure Switch Location:

The power steering pressure switch is mounted in the power steering pressure hose near the pump.