P0553: Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input
PS pressure sensor signal voltage above threshold — short to supply or sensor failure. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
What P0553 means
P0553 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the speed, idle & cruise group. In plain English: the computer sees a voltage on that circuit that is higher than it should ever be — often an open ground, a short to power, or a failed sensor.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- No
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Not required
Get it fixed
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Common causes
- 01Sensor circuit shorted to supplyMost likely
- 02Connector pins corroded - high contact resistanceLess likely
- 03Supply wire pinched against B+ sourceLess likely
Can I drive with P0553?
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
- Turns on 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 P0553
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0553. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Check for related codes first
Look for P0550. Related codes often share a cause; a circuit or sensor code usually needs fixing before a performance code like this one.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the power steering pressure sensor and ps sensor wiring for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: Sensor circuit shorted to supply; connector pins corroded - high contact resistance; supply wire pinched against B+ source. 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.
P0553 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?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Needs a scan tool and some experience with testing.
Parts and systems involved
- Power steering pressure sensor
- Ps sensor wiring
P0553 FAQ
What does P0553 mean?
P0553 means “Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit High Input”. PS pressure sensor signal voltage above threshold — short to supply or sensor failure. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
Is P0553 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0553 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 P0553?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: Sensor circuit shorted to supply; Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance; Supply wire pinched against B+ source. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0553?
Typical labor is about $40–$250 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 P0553 myself?
DIY difficulty is moderate. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0553 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.