If you drive a Hyundai car, you must have seen an EPS light warning on the dashboard. And usually, you must worry as an owner once you see any warning light on the display. Some warnings may indicate minor issues; therefore, you don’t have to worry. But the Hyundai EPS warning is crazy. In most cases, the steering wheel becomes stiff. And you wonder what the heck is happening.
To be precise, the EPS warning light is related to the steering system. As you know, modern cars have power steering, unlike the older models that used steering tiller. In the early days, steering a car was strenuous and difficult. But with powered steering, you can even steer the car with one finger. Thanks to technology.
One of the biggest concerns with Hyundai users is the EPS warning. This issue has led to a recall of some models like the Elantra. Our team has researched and come up with a solution for this issue. Read the rest of the information and learn the EPS car meaning how to fix it 100%.
What is EPS Light On Hyundai?
The EPS (Electronic Power Steering) light illuminates when there is a problem with the power steering system. Once you turn on the car, this light must illuminate with all the other indicators. But when it stays on for an extended period, then the steering system has a problem.
Hyundai models use electric power steering instead of belt-driven pumps. This mechanism helps to save energy because it only activates when the driver steers the car. Normally, the EPS consists of the motor, which helps the driver steer the car, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), the steering gear, and a torque sensor that monitors the system and sends the signal to the ECM. Once the ECM interprets the signals, it determines whether to illuminate the EPS light.
What Can Cause the EPS Light to Come On?
We have explained that the EPS light comes on due to a faulty power steering system. Note that the lamp can illuminate if the system is turned off. So, check the center console button and confirm it’s on before troubleshooting the issue. Now let’s discuss in detail the possible issues that can cause the light to illuminate.
Steering Coupler Issue
A steering coupler is an intermediary that allows the steering to rotate without binding up in its column. It simply permits the movement transfer from the steering wheel to the steering rack. Suppose the steering coupler develops a fault; the sensor will detect and send the information to the ECM. The ECM illuminates the EPS light to alert the driver of the malfunction.
Also, if the steering coupler develops some problems, it will become very difficult to maneuver. Driving it in this state can be very dangerous because it can seize up at any time.
TSB Reprogramming
Just as with other technological advancements, the electronic steering in Hyundai needs programming. The programming issue has been notorious to the extent that Hyundai released TSB# 15-01-019 (Technical Service Bulletin). The manufacturer released this document to help various owners to solve the EPS light issue. Thousands of users complained that the vehicle showed the EPS light after driving for a few miles, which raised a lot of anxiety.
EPS Software Outdated
The EPS system has software related to TSB programming. This software manages and oversees all the functions in the system. And just as with any computer system, the software needs some updates. Normally if the software is not up to date, it will cause lag and glitches.
Our team thought an update was essential because many car owners reported that the issue disappeared after updating it.
How to Fix EPS Light Warning On Hyundai
Luckily, we have identified possible causes that trigger the EPS warning light. So, how do you fix the warning? The only way to fix the warning is to know which of the three causes has occurred on your system. Below is how you can fix various issues:
Absolute Steering Position Calibration
If you have a problem with the actual steering wheel angle, you must calibrate it. The TSB has all the guidelines for calibrating the steering and having the perfect angle. The engine must be off and the ignition on to calibrate the steering. If you have difficulty understanding the TSB, you can visit the nearest Hyundai dealership and have the issue solved.
Replace Steering Wheel Coupler
If you notice the EPS light and the steering becomes very stiff and difficult to maneuver, you need to check the wheel coupler. Also, you may notice excessive vibrations, clunking noise, and locking if the coupler has a problem. Only attempt to replace the steering coupler if you know how to assemble the components. If not, visit the repair shop for a replacement.
Check for the EPS Software Update
As pointed out earlier, outdated software will cause some glitches, and this will cause the EPS light to illuminate. However, you can do regular software updates to avoid the issue. With Hyundai, you may need help to do it. Take the car to the Hyundai dealership and have the software updated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How Do I Fix the EPS Problem in My Car?
Multiple causes can trigger the EPS light to illuminate. In this situation, it may be very hard to know the cause without performing some diagnostics. The best step is to use an OBD scanner to read the codes.
You must also understand what various codes mean to determine which area needs attention. The OBD scanner reads the error data in the car system and diagnoses the problem in the form of codes.
After knowing the problem, you can determine if it’s minor to fix at home or visit a repair shop.
What Should I Do If the EPS Warning Comes On While Driving?
You shouldn’t panic because the car remains driveable even after the EPS light illuminates. However, take time to note how the system behaves when driving. For instance, if there is too much stiffness and difficulty in maneuvering, you need to fix the issue because you can endanger your life and that of other road users.
Ideally, park the car and turn it off for a few minutes. After turning it on, you can proceed with the journey if it clears the errors. But if the steering becomes stiffer, you may need to fix it before driving.
Some problems, like sensor failure, cannot hinder you from driving to your destination. However, note that the car will require more effort to steer.
Can I Drive With the EPS Light On?
It’s recommended to first park the car and troubleshoot the problem. If there are minor issues that cannot compromise safety, then you can drive the car. However, some major issues, like the damaged coupler, can result in accidents, so driving in this state is not recommended.
Note that the steering wheel will require more effort to turn. You may also find it challenging to get the position of your front wheels accurately.
Note that some shocking cases have been reported, like the wheels seizing and binding on the road, which causes the cars to lose control.
How Do I Reset the EPS Light?
Park the car and turn off the engine. Give it a few minutes and turn on the engine. The dashboard light should illuminate but must go off after a few seconds. If it doesn’t go off, turn the steering 45° to the left and hold it in that position until it goes off.
This method usually solves the issue, but in some cases, the light may not go off if there are complicated issues with the system. Take the car to the repair shop and have a deeper examination conducted.
Can I Drive Without EPS?
It’s possible to drive without EPS, but it’s not recommended. EPS stabilizes the steering wheel, thus making driving easier and safer. If you don’t have the EPS, it can be difficult to control the car at higher speeds. In the olden days, EPS wasn’t a safety feature.
But considering the modern roads and the traffic experienced daily, it’s now a necessity for every car.
Any Recalls Addressing the Issue?
Numerous recalls have attempted to address the issue, like EPS light Hyundai Elantra. For instance, the 2017 Hyundai Elentra was recalled to replace the power steering motors. The Hyundai automaker has developed the TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) to help the owners solve the Hyundai Elantra EPS light issue.
Where is the EPS Light On My Hyundai Elantra?
The EPS light on Hyundai Elantra appears on the instrument cluster. Normally, the light appears around the speedometer, written in red “EPS”. However, you can confirm with the user manual to note where the warning light appears in your car model.
Conclusion
What does EPS mean? EPS light Hyundai means your electronic steering system has some problems. The problem can occur due to a damaged steering coupler, outdated software, or loss of the steering wheel programming. If your Hyundai car illuminates the light, you can use the OBD scanner tool to check the cause and fix it. Remember driving with an EPS warning may lead to accidents.
Leave a comment