OBD Guide

P0636

Power Steering Control Circuit Low

Severity
🔴 High
Can you drive?
Do not drive — repair immediately
Approx. repair cost
$17–556 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Heavy steering, especially at low speeds
  • Check Engine light comes on
  • The power steering (EPS/EPAS) indicator may be on.
  • Power steering is intermittent or cuts out
  • Creaks or strange sounds when turning the steering wheel

Causes

  • Open or short circuit in the power steering control circuit
  • Oxidation or damage to the power steering module connectors
  • Electric Power Steering (EPS) module malfunction
  • Low on-board voltage (discharged battery)
  • ECU malfunction

How to Fix

  1. Check battery voltage and terminal condition
  2. Inspect the power steering control circuit wiring and connectors for damage and oxidation.
  3. Measure the voltage in the control circuit according to the electrical diagram
  4. Check the integrity of the fuses associated with the power steering system
  5. If the wiring is correct - diagnostics and replacement of the EPS module
  6. If necessary, update or replace the ECU

Related codes

Error P0636 by Vehicle Brand