P0553 Code: Power Steering Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit High

What the P0553 code means

When you turn the steering wheel with the vehicle stopped, the hydraulic power steering pump loads the engine. The pressure sensor (or switch) warns the computer so it raises the idle a little and the engine does not stall.

The sensor gets a 5 V reference and a ground from the computer and returns a signal between about 0.5 and 4.5 V. A high signal, which is what the P0553 code reports, is usually caused by an open circuit or an interrupted ground.

Without a good signal, the engine can stumble or stall when you turn the wheel all the way during maneuvers. Power steering fluid leaking out through the sensor itself is a frequent failure.

To confirm it, measure the continuity of each wire between the component connector and the computer connector with the key off. It should be under 1 ohm. An infinite reading means the wire is open. If the wiring is good, measure the component itself: an infinite resistance confirms it is open inside.

P0553 code symptoms

• Check engine light on.
• Idle that drops when you turn the wheel.
• The engine stalls or shakes when you turn the wheel while stopped.

Likely causes of the P0553 code

1. Loose or broken connector. The most frequent cause.
2. Signal or ground wire cut. The signal rises all the way up to the reference.
3. Sensor open inside. Its resistance reads infinite.
4. Short to 5 V or 12 V from rubbing against another wire in the harness.

How to diagnose the P0553 code step by step

1. Read the sensor value on the scan tool and compare it with what you expect.
2. Inspect the connector for corrosion, water or loose pins.
3. Check the supply and ground with the key on: the reference should be correct, with less than 0.1 V of voltage drop on the ground.
4. Measure the signal with the connector plugged in and watch whether it changes with the condition.
5. Do a wiggle test on the harness with the scan tool in graph mode.
6. Check the continuity of each wire to the computer (under 1 ohm).

How to fix the P0553 code

• Repair the connector or the wiring.
• Replace the sensor if the tests confirm it is bad.
• Correct the real condition if there is one.
• Clear the codes and verify with a road test.

Technical reference data

• It can be a switch (2 wires) or a 5 V pressure sensor (3 wires).
• These values are a general guide: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

This code is most common on vehicles with hydraulic power steering. Look for fluid leaking onto the sensor connector before you condemn the sensor.

P0553 on Nissan

Common on Nissan vehicles with hydraulic power steering.

P0553 on Honda

Common on Honda vehicles with hydraulic power steering.

P0553 on GM

Common on GM vehicles with hydraulic power steering.

Frequently asked questions about P0553