P0560 — Power Steering Pressure Sensor Circuit Intermittent
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0560 means
This code means the engine computer detected an intermittent, on-and-off signal problem in the power steering pressure sensor circuit. It usually points to a loose or corroded connector, chafed wiring, or a failing sensor that drops out under vibration or temperature changes. It's commonly fixed by repairing the wiring and connectors or replacing the sensor, rather than major steering work.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light is on or flickers intermittently
- Steering feels heavier at random moments
- Engine idle stumbles or stalls when turning the wheel
- Symptoms come and go without a clear pattern
- Whining or groaning noise from the steering pump
Common causes
- Loose or corroded connector at the pressure sensor
- Chafed or intermittently shorted wiring
- Faulty power steering pressure sensor
- Poor or intermittent ground connection
- Low or contaminated power steering fluid
Typical repair cost
$120 – $350
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a P0560 code?
Usually yes for short trips, but don't rely on it. The steering can feel heavier without warning and the engine may stall during slow turns, which is unsafe in tight spots. Get it diagnosed soon.
How much does it cost to fix a P0560?
Most repairs run between $120 and $350. A wiring or connector fix is on the lower end, while replacing the power steering pressure sensor pushes toward the higher end with labor.
Is a P0560 code serious?
It's moderate. The car won't break down right away, but intermittent heavy steering and idle stalling can become a safety issue, so it shouldn't be ignored.
Why is a P0560 hard to diagnose?
Because the fault is intermittent, it may not show up during testing. A technician often has to wiggle wiring and check connectors under load to catch the dropout.