The power steering system of the Nissan Ariya suddenly cuts out, making the steering on your car much heavier without warning. This is not just inconvenient, but also dangerous. Read on to find out what you need to know about this electric steering fault.
What is electric power steering
Modern cars use electric power steering (a system in which an electric motor helps you steer) instead of hydraulic systems. This makes steering easier and saves fuel. The system works via electronic sensors that measure your steering movements and control the motor.
In the Ariya this system is advanced and linked to various safety systems (assistance systems that help prevent accidents). If the power steering fails, the steering wheel will still work, but it will be as heavy to turn as in an old car without power assistance.
‘ The power steering system cuts out without warning. ’
Ariya steering problems are common
Owners of the Nissan Ariya regularly report problems with the steering system (all components that make steering possible). The power steering system cuts out without warning. This happens while driving, both in town and on the motorway.
The failure lasts for a few seconds or continues for longer. Some owners experience this problem several times. In some cases it resolves itself, but often the fault remains until the car is restarted.
Recognisable symptoms of power steering failure
- Suddenly heavy steering while driving
- Warning light on the dashboard
- The steering still responds, but requires much more effort
- Strange feel in the power steering just before it fails
Why is the electric power steering not working
In the Ariya, steering problems often point to an electrical defect or software fault (an error in the car’s programming). The system detects a fault and switches off the power assistance as a safety measure. This happens, for example, with voltage problems in the electrical system or incorrect sensor data.
The cause lies in various components. The electric motor itself can fail. The control module also causes problems. Sensors and wiring can generate faults. Sometimes software updates solve the problem. This does not always work.
In electric cars such as the Ariya, the high-voltage system (the part that controls the high electric voltage of the drivetrain) also plays a role. Disruptions in the power supply affect the power steering. The complex electronics make diagnosis (tracing the cause of the fault) difficult.
How serious is an electric steering fault
Power steering that cuts out is a critical safety issue (a situation that creates danger on the road). You partially lose control over your car. In busy traffic this leads to dangerous situations. Quick manoeuvres also become risky.
Without assistance, steering requires much more force. Often this is still possible. Not everyone reacts quickly enough, though. At higher speeds the steering becomes heavier. It requires more effort. In emergency situations, this can make all the difference.
Do not ignore this fault. A steering system that cuts out needs immediate attention from a specialist mechanic. Book an appointment with your Nissan dealer as soon as possible.
‘ The problem keeps coming back. ’
What should you do if you have steering problems
Do you notice that the power steering cuts out? Pull over as safely as possible. Switch on your hazard warning lights. Park your car in a safe place and switch off the engine. Then restart the car. Check whether the problem persists.
Has the power steering come back? Then stay alert while driving. The problem will return. Drive straight to a Nissan dealer for a diagnosis (tracing the cause of the fault). Avoid busy roads and high speeds until the fault has been resolved.
Note when the fault occurs. Write down at what speed, temperature and under which conditions it happens. This information helps the mechanic to trace the cause.
Check the following points
- Have the fault codes read out by a specialist
- Ask whether any software updates are available
- Check whether Nissan has announced a recall
- Have the complete steering system inspected
A visit to the dealer is essential
With steering problems on the Ariya you need professional help. A Nissan dealer has the right diagnostic equipment. The mechanic reads the system and retrieves the exact fault code. This information shows where the problem lies.
Sometimes the repair only requires a software update (a new version of the car’s programming). In other cases, parts need to be replaced. The electric motor must be replaced. A sensor or the control module may also need replacing. The dealer will also check whether your car is still under warranty. Keep all documentation relating to the fault.
Do not drive with a defective steering system. The risks are too great. If necessary, have your car towed to the dealer. Your safety comes first.
Check the current recalls for the Nissan Ariya on Carnews and report your fault in the experiences section. Other owners share there which dealers are effective and whether Nissan is covering the costs. This helps you prepare for the conversation with the dealer.
Frequently asked questions
The first signs of steering problems are a heavier or jerky steering feel, pulling to one side and strange noises such as humming or groaning when turning. Also watch out for power steering that sometimes cuts out and then comes back again, especially when cornering or parking. You can recognise an imminent electric power steering failure by a sudden (temporary) loss of power assistance, warning lights on the dashboard and a clearly different steering feel. If you notice these signs, it is important to have the car checked immediately and not to keep driving.
Driving with steering problems or a defective electric power steering system immediately increases the risk of losing control of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds or during sudden evasive manoeuvres. Steering response can become unpredictable or (temporarily) disappear, meaning bends and emergency situations can no longer be taken safely. This raises the risk of collisions with other road users or objects. In addition, a startle reaction or overcorrection by the driver can further increase the risk of an accident.
The most common causes of electric power steering failure are defective steering angle sensors, problems in the wiring loom or connectors, overheating or wear of the electric power steering motor and faults in the ECU/software. Voltage issues (weak battery, poor earth connection) can also temporarily switch off the electric power steering. As a car enthusiast, you can act preventively by keeping a close eye on battery and charging condition, visually checking cables and plugs around the steering rack and fuse boxes for corrosion or breaks, and having fault codes read out periodically. It also helps to avoid extreme steering angles when stationary, have the car serviced on time and have known recalls or software updates carried out via the dealer.
Possible repairs for electric power steering failure include replacing or refurbishing the complete electric steering column, replacing the electronic steering motor/module, or repairing wiring and connectors. Minor electrical repairs or resolving contact problems are often in the range of a few hundred euros. Replacement or refurbishment of the complete electric steering column can range from roughly €800 to well over €1,500, depending on make and model. In some cases, fitting used or refurbished parts is a cheaper option than entirely new components.
