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DTC codes / C07xx · Brakes, steering and suspension / C0745

C0745Electric Power Steering Overtemperature Protection

C0745 indicates that the electric power steering (EPS) control module has detected an internal temperature above its safe operating limit and has entered a protective mode to prevent damage. The module monitors its own temperature and the temperature of the electric motor, and when the threshold is exceeded it reduces or disables power assist until the system cools.

SystemChassis
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaBrakes, steering and suspension

Symptoms you may notice

  • The power steering warning light or a message such as 'Power Steering Overheated' appears on the dashboard.
  • Steering effort increases noticeably, especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers.
  • The power assist may cut out entirely after repeated steering inputs or extended low-speed maneuvering.
  • A burning or hot electrical smell may be noticed near the steering column or under the hood after heavy use.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, especially if the overheat condition was brief and has since cleared.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Extended low-speed maneuvering or repeated full-lock steering that overloads the EPS motor and generates excessive heat.
  2. A failing EPS motor or motor winding with increased resistance, causing it to draw more current and overheat.
  3. A restricted or failed cooling fan or blocked airflow to the EPS module, if the system is air-cooled.
  4. Low or contaminated power steering fluid in hydraulic-electric hybrid systems, reducing lubrication and increasing motor load.
  5. A faulty temperature sensor inside the EPS module or motor that reports a false overheat condition.
  6. Software or calibration issues in the EPS control module that cause premature thermal protection.
  7. A weak battery or poor ground connection that forces the EPS motor to draw higher current and generate more heat.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Scan all modules for stored codes and freeze-frame data to confirm C0745 is current and not a historical fault.
  2. Inspect the EPS motor and control module for signs of overheating, such as discolored connectors or a burning smell.
  3. Check the power steering fluid level and condition if the system uses hydraulic assist, and top up or replace as needed.
  4. Verify that the EPS cooling fan (if equipped) operates correctly and that airflow to the module is not obstructed.
  5. Perform a voltage drop test on the battery, charging system, and ground connections to rule out excessive resistance.
  6. Use a scan tool to monitor EPS motor temperature and current draw during a steering sweep to identify abnormal readings.
  7. If all external checks pass, follow the manufacturer's diagnostic flow for the EPS module, which may include software updates or module replacement.

What a power steering overheat code really tells you

  • C0745 is often set by driver behavior rather than a failed component; repeated full-lock steering during parking can trigger it without any underlying fault.
  • A false overheat reading from a degraded temperature sensor inside the EPS module can mimic a genuine overheating condition and lead to unnecessary motor replacement.
  • The code does not always mean the EPS motor is failing; a weak battery or poor ground can cause excessive current draw and heat that sets the code.
  • On some vehicles, the EPS system shares cooling with other underhood components, so a blocked radiator or failing cooling fan can indirectly cause this code.
  • After any repair, the adaptive learning for the steering angle sensor may need to be reset, or the power assist may remain reduced even after the code is cleared.

Can I keep driving with C0745?

You can usually drive the vehicle to a repair shop, but expect heavier steering and avoid low-speed maneuvers or repeated full-lock turns until the fault is repaired. If the steering assist cuts out completely, pull over safely and have the vehicle towed.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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