I was taking out my power steering pump to fix a leak and broke the pressure sensor (right next to the high pressure line). Is there any purpose to the sensor other than providing a warning light when the pressure is low?

Will I be able to drive without it working?

Thanks.

 

Don't know the answer for sure. The sensor might trigger a cel if it detects a problem. Perhaps disconnecting it's plug might trigger a cel too.

The power steering either works or it doesn't. Other cars o have owned did not have the sensor. I would just drive the car without worry.

 

I'm unfamiliar w a "low power steering fluid" light on this car.

The answer is on the Googler - but I believe the pressure sensor raises the idle speed to compensate for the draw of the PS pump.

 

Idle speed compensation males sense. If it does not work, the engine might stall under certain conditions when the wheel is locked either right or left.

Just drive the car and see what happens.

 

JvG is on track. The purpose of the sensor is to detect the higher oil pressure created when the steering wheel is turned. The ECU looks at this only when the engine is idling. The power steering pump creates a drag on the engine and if the engine is idling, the ECU will give the engine a little more gas to keep the rpm from dropping.

I don't think that the rpm drop is all that much that we absolutely have to have this, but Nissan put it there. And you will get a CEL if the switch is broken.

 

JvG gives full credit to reallywildstuff who first mentioned the possible association with idle speed.

 

thanks. this is not described in the FSM - can't remember where i read it

 

The power steering oil pressure switch is attached to the power steering high pressure tube and detects a power steering load. When a power steering load is detected, it signals the ECM. The ECM adjusts the IACV-AAC valve to increase the idle speed and adjust for the increased load. (EC-369, 97 fsm)


I did this exact test today, while messing around with my new obd scanner. Had it on RPM's and I was at idle at 700, turned wheel and I idled around 820. Don't remember exact number as I was just goofing around.