2020 Chevy Traverse Power Steering Not Working

Suddenly, turning the wheel in your 2020 Chevrolet Traverse feels like a workout? If your power steering assist has failed, you're not alone. This common issue transforms the effortless maneuverability of your Traverse into a strenuous task, often accompanied by a warning light on your dashboard. This article will guide you through understanding why your 2020 Traverse's power steering might stop working, how to verify the problem, and what steps you can take to get it fixed.

What drivers notice on this 2020 Chevy Traverse

When the electric power steering (EPS) system in your 2020 Traverse fails, the most immediate and noticeable symptom is a significant increase in steering effort. What was once a light, responsive wheel now feels incredibly heavy, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers. You might also notice:

• The steering wheel becomes very stiff and difficult to turn, requiring considerable physical effort.
• A "Power Steering" or "Service Power Steering" message may appear on the driver information center.
• The power steering warning light (often an illuminated steering wheel icon) may illuminate on the dashboard.
• The vehicle may pull slightly to one side due to uneven steering assist.
• Intermittent loss of power steering, where it works sometimes and fails at others, often worsening over time.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 8/10 — Moderate to advanced
• Common Symptoms: Extremely Heavy Steering: This is the primary symptom, making the vehicle challenging and potentially unsafe to drive.; Dashboard Warning Lights: The power steering warning icon (a steering wheel with an exclamation mark or similar) will li; Driver Information Center Messages: You might see text messages like "Service Power Steering," "Power Steering Assist Re; Unusual Noises: While less common with electric systems, some drivers might report a faint clicking or grinding sound fr
• Estimated Repair Cost: $200–$1,800 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your 2020 Chevrolet TRAVERSE.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Browse the model repair hub and make hub for related guides.

Symptoms and warning signs

Beyond the immediate loss of assist, here are the specific indicators that your 2020 Chevy Traverse's power steering system is experiencing a problem:

• Extremely Heavy Steering: This is the primary symptom, making the vehicle challenging and potentially unsafe to drive.
• Dashboard Warning Lights: The power steering warning icon (a steering wheel with an exclamation mark or similar) will light up.
• Driver Information Center Messages: You might see text messages like "Service Power Steering," "Power Steering Assist Reduced," or "Power Steering Failed."
• Unusual Noises: While less common with electric systems, some drivers might report a faint clicking or grinding sound from the steering column area if the EPS motor is struggling.
• Intermittent Operation: The power steering may work sometimes and then suddenly fail, often after hitting a bump or turning the wheel sharply.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Confirming a power steering assist failure in your 2020 Traverse involves a few practical steps, from simple driver checks to using a diagnostic scan tool.

• Engine On, Stationary Test: With the engine running and the vehicle stationary, attempt to turn the steering wheel. If it's unusually heavy and requires significant force, the power steering assist is likely inactive.
• Check for Warning Lights: Visually confirm the illumination of the power steering warning light or messages on the driver information center.
• OBD-II Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): Use an OBD-II scanner to check for codes stored in the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) or other related modules. A common code associated with EPS system failures, though not the main topic here, is C0561 (System Disabled Information Stored). Other codes related to steering angle sensors, motor current, or module internal faults may also be present. For more information on specific codes, you can browse our OBD-II codes database.
• Live Data Monitoring: An advanced scan tool can monitor live data from the EPS system, such as steering angle sensor readings, motor current draw, and module voltage. This can help identify intermittent issues or sensor malfunctions.
• Visual Inspection:
  • Battery and Charging System: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight, and the battery voltage is adequate (12.6V or higher when off, 13.5-14.5V when running). Low voltage can cause EPS system malfunctions.
  • Fuses: Check the relevant fuses for the power steering system in both the underhood and interior fuse boxes. Consult your owner's manual for exact locations.
  • Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring harness leading to the EPS motor and control module for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion. Ensure all connectors are securely seated.

Common causes (most likely first)

The electric power steering system in the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse is complex. Here are the most common reasons for its failure, listed from most to least likely:

• Electric Power Steering (EPS) Control Module Failure: This is a very common culprit. The module integrates sensor inputs and controls the electric motor. Internal component failure or software glitches can render it inoperable.
• EPS Motor Failure: The electric motor directly provides the assist. Over time, the motor windings can fail, or the brushes can wear out, leading to a complete loss of assist.
• Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) Malfunction: The SAS tells the EPS module how much the driver is turning the wheel. If it sends incorrect or no data, the module won't know how to apply assist.
• Wiring or Connector Issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors to the EPS module, motor, or sensors can interrupt power or data signals, causing the system to fail.
• Low Battery Voltage or Charging System Issues: The EPS system requires a significant amount of electrical power. A weak battery or a failing alternator can starve the system, leading to intermittent or complete failure.
• Software Glitch or Calibration Issue: Less common, but sometimes a software bug or a lost calibration can cause the EPS system to malfunction. This typically requires dealership-level diagnostic tools to reflash or recalibrate.

Related guides on this vehicle

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• 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Power Steering Not Working

Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing a non-working power steering system in your 2020 Traverse often requires a systematic approach:

1. Check Battery and Alternator: Start with the basics. Ensure your battery is fully charged and your alternator is producing proper voltage. A simple multimeter can confirm this.
2. Scan for Trouble Codes: Use your OBD-II scanner to pull any stored codes, especially those related to the power steering module. Note down all codes, including C0561, as they provide critical diagnostic clues. For a comprehensive list of Chevrolet-specific issues, check out the Chevrolet vehicle hub.
3. Inspect Fuses: Locate and visually inspect all fuses related to the power steering system. Replace any blown fuses, but be aware that a blown fuse often indicates an underlying electrical short that needs to be found.
4. Visual Inspection of Wiring and Connectors: Carefully examine the wiring harness and connectors leading to the EPS motor and control module, usually located on the steering column or rack. Look for frayed wires, corrosion, or loose connections.
5. Monitor Live Data (with Advanced Scanner): If you have access to a more advanced scan tool, monitor parameters like steering angle sensor input, EPS motor current, and module voltage. This can help identify sensor failures or power supply issues.
6. Test EPS Motor and Module: This often requires specialized knowledge and tools. Some tests can be performed to check the motor's resistance or the module's power and ground connections. However, direct testing of internal components is generally not feasible for DIYers.
7. Consider Component Replacement: Based on diagnostic findings, the faulty component (EPS module, motor, or sensor) will need to be replaced. Note that some replacements, especially the EPS module, may require programming or calibration by a dealership or a shop with specialized equipment.

Repair options and cost factors

Repairing the power steering on your 2020 Traverse can vary significantly in cost depending on the failed component:

• Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) Replacement: If only the sensor is faulty, costs might range from $300–$700, including parts and labor. Sometimes, only calibration is needed.
• EPS Motor Replacement: If the electric motor itself is the problem, costs can be $600–$1,200. This often involves replacing the entire steering column or rack assembly if the motor is integrated.
• EPS Control Module Replacement: This is often the most expensive component. Costs can range from $800–$2,000 or more, especially if it requires specialized programming or calibration by a dealership. The module itself can be several hundred dollars, plus significant labor and programming fees.
• Wiring Repair: If the issue is simply a damaged wire or corroded connector, repair costs could be as low as $150–$400.

Always obtain quotes from reputable shops and consider the parts warranty. For more information on your specific model, visit our Traverse model hub.

When to see a professional

While basic checks can be performed at home, a power steering assist failure is a critical safety issue. It's advisable to see a professional technician if:

• You are uncomfortable performing electrical diagnostics or component replacement.
• Your OBD-II scanner reveals complex codes that you don't understand.
• The issue persists after basic checks (fuses, battery).
• The repair requires specialized tools for programming or calibration (e.g., after replacing the EPS module).
• You suspect an internal failure of the EPS motor or module, which often requires significant disassembly and specific diagnostic equipment.

Driving with no power steering is dangerous, as it significantly increases the effort needed to control the vehicle, especially in emergency situations.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my 2020 Traverse with no power steering?

While technically possible, driving your 2020 Chevrolet Traverse without power steering assist is highly discouraged and unsafe. The steering will be extremely heavy, making it difficult to control the vehicle, especially at low speeds or during emergency maneuvers. It greatly increases the risk of an accident.

What does the C0561 code mean for my Traverse?

The C0561 code in your 2020 Traverse typically indicates that the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) has detected a condition that requires it to disable the power steering assist. This is often a generic code that points to an underlying issue within the EPS system, such as a sensor fault, motor problem, or internal module failure, rather than being a specific component failure itself. It signals a system-wide disablement.

Is the 2020 Chevy Traverse power steering electric or hydraulic?

The 2020 Chevrolet Traverse utilizes an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, not a traditional hydraulic system. This means there is no power steering pump, fluid reservoir, or hydraulic lines. Instead, an an electric motor provides steering assist, controlled by an electronic module, offering advantages in fuel efficiency and packaging. For more on chassis systems, see our ABS & Chassis hub.

Sources and further reading

• Chevrolet Traverse Owner's Manual (2020 Edition)
• GM Service Information (TIS2Web)
• Automotive electrical diagnostic guides

This article is intended for informational purposes and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.