Power Steering Pressure Switch: Description and Operation

Power Steering Pressure Switch:

The Power Steering Pressure Switch (PSPS) is located on the rack and pinion assembly under the ABS hydraulic unit. The power steering pressure switch is normally closed and provides a battery voltage signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with no power steering load. When power steering pressure increases to a calibrated level due to steering load (such as full steering lock), the switch opens and causes the signal voltage to the PCM to drop to 0 volt.

The PCM uses the power steering pressure switch signal for idle speed control during high steering loads to maintain a stable idle. A shorted power steering pressure switch may cause a stumble or stall during steering loads and an open switch should set a Diagnostic Trouble Code.