C0250: Power Steering Pump Pressure
The power steering control module has detected an implausible pressure or load signal from the steering pump. On hydraulic systems this may indicate low fluid or a worn pump; on electric systems it may indicate excessive motor load.
What C0250 means
C0250 is a generic OBD-II chassis code in the steering group.
- Check engine light
- Usually off
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Symptoms
- ABS warning light on
- ESC/stability control deactivated
- Possible reduced brake assist
- Speedometer may behave erratically
Common causes
- 01Power steering fluid low or contaminatedMost likely
- 02Power steering pump wornPossible
- 03Pressure sensor failedLess likely
Can I drive with C0250?
Drive carefully and get it checked soon.
Steering assist may drop out, making the wheel heavy at low speed. Avoid driving if steering becomes very heavy or erratic.
Why we rate it urgent
- Steering assist may be reduced or lost
- Usually lights the ABS, traction or stability warning instead of the check engine light
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose C0250
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just C0250. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Check live data
Watch the related sensor and actuator readings in live data (Power steering pump, Power steering module, Power steering pressure sensor) and compare them with expected values in the service information for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Power steering fluid low or contaminated; power steering pump worn; pressure sensor failed. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and drive the car under the conditions in the freeze-frame data to confirm it does not return.
C0250 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Moderate
- Good DIY job?
- Usually a shop job
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Power steering pump
- Power steering module
- Power steering pressure sensor
C0250 FAQ
What does C0250 mean?
C0250 means “Power Steering Pump Pressure”. The power steering control module has detected an implausible pressure or load signal from the steering pump. On hydraulic systems this may indicate low fluid or a worn pump; on electric systems it may indicate excessive motor load.
Is C0250 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate C0250 as urgent severity. Drive carefully and get it checked soon. Steering assist may drop out, making the wheel heavy at low speed. Avoid driving if steering becomes very heavy or erratic.
What causes C0250?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Power steering fluid low or contaminated; Power steering pump worn; Pressure sensor failed. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix C0250?
Typical labor is about $65–$500 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix C0250 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Most owners leave this to a shop because it needs involved testing or specialist tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will C0250 clear itself?
If the fault was intermittent, the warning may go off once the computer stops seeing it, but the code stays in memory. Fix the cause; clearing the code alone doesn’t repair anything.