65 Power Steering Switch Failure - (P 0551)

65 POWER STEERING SWITCH FAILURE - (P 0551)





The power steering switch serves as a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) input at pin 56. Data from this switch allows the PCM to compensate for the additional engine load during steering maneuvers that require high steering pump pressure.

ENABLING CONDITIONS
- Open power steering switch indicating high pressure
- Vehicle speed must be greater than 56 MPH

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is illuminated and a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored if the above conditions are detected for a period of 30 seconds.

This malfunction could possibly caused by problems with any of the following components:

- Power steering switch
- Circuit between the power steering switch and the PCM (open)
- PCM

NOTE: The PCM learns whether or not the vehicle is equipped with power steering by the presence of the power steering switch signal to ground. The PCM's memory of power steering is lost when the battery is disconnected or when the PCM is replaced. To re-initiate the PCM to accommodate the power steering input, the power steering switch must function properly.