P0551 Power steering pressure sensor: reading or operation not right

By: Diagno editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-15

P0551 means: Power steering pressure sensor: reading or operation not right. The steering or chassis system (steering angle sensor, electric power steering, suspension, brakes) found a fault. Drive gently and have the car checked soon. The repair usually costs about €60–1200 in Estonia. The most common cause: steering angle sensor needs calibration.

What it means

The steering or chassis system (steering angle sensor, electric power steering, suspension, brakes) found a fault. There is a signal, but the reading or operation isn't plausible. The cause may be the part itself or a real mechanical fault.

What you may notice

• Warning light on
• Steering may be heavy
• ESP may be switched off

What could be wrong

1. 1Steering angle sensor needs calibration
2. 2Low battery voltage
3. 3Sensor or wiring
4. 4Power steering unit or module

Repair difficulty: Moderate

What you can check yourself

If the steering is heavy, drive carefully. After tyre or alignment work the steering angle sensor often needs recalibrating. Best left to a workshop. It needs a diagnostic tool and experience.

How we fix it

1. We read the codes and calibrate the sensor
2. We check supply and wiring
3. We replace the sensor or repair the steering unit

Standard SAE description: Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Range/Performance