The Electric Power Steering (EPS) warning light indicates your power steering assist is either restricted (yellow) or completely lost (red). Understanding the difference helps you respond correctly and avoid unnecessary panic.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 570, 577)
The 4th gen Tacoma (2024+) uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) with no hydraulic fluid.
This is a key difference from earlier Tacoma generations which used hydraulic systems. The EPS system uses an electric motor to provide steering assist, controlled by an electronic module.
When the electric power steering system warning light comes on: When the light comes on yellow, the assist to the power steering is restricted. When the light comes on red, the assist to the power steering is lost and handling operations of the steering wheel become extremely heavy.
When steering wheel operations are heavier than usual, grip the steering wheel firmly and operate it using more force than usual.
Yellow EPS Warning Light
Red EPS Warning Light
Research into 4th gen Tacoma owner experiences reveals that low battery voltage is the primary cause of transient EPS warnings, particularly in vehicles with auto start/stop systems active in stop-and-go traffic.
Master diagnostic technician insight: If you have the gas model with auto start/stop enabled, it can discharge even a new battery if stuck in congested traffic long enough. Once battery reaches lower voltage about 11.9 volts you can get odd MID notifications for steering power low, AWD not available, and EPB malfunction.
Why this happens: Electric power steering systems are voltage-sensitive. When battery voltage drops below about 11.5V, the EPS control module may temporarily disable power steering assist as a protective measure.
Toyota owner communities have developed practical diagnostic criteria to distinguish voltage issues from mechanical failures:
Transient Warning (Voltage-Related):
Persistent Warning (Mechanical Failure):
While voltage issues are most common, some early production 2024 Tacomas experienced genuine power steering assembly failures. Owner report from March 2024 indicates a dealer had their best mechanic diagnose it after consulting with Toyota engineers and the vehicle needed complete power steering assembly replacement under warranty.
These failures occurred under 200 miles in some cases and required complete power steering assembly replacement under warranty after dealer consultation with Toyota engineers.
Step 1: Assess the Warning
Step 2: Check Electrical System (For Transient Warnings)
If the warning was brief (under 5 seconds) with no persistent MID message:
Step 3: Dealer Diagnosis (When Required)
For persistent warnings or repeated transient warnings, schedule Toyota dealer service.
What to request from your dealer:
Why documentation matters: Requesting printed diagnostic reports creates an audit trail for warranty claims and enables informed second opinions. This prevents vague computer says it is fine diagnoses without concrete evidence.
As of November 28, 2025:
The absence of publicly available TSBs suggests either low failure rates or that the model is too new for pattern documentation (introduced 2024). Note: Dealerships may have internal service bulletins not publicly available.
Active recalls that do exist (not EPS-related):
The Electric Power Steering system is covered under Toyota's 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as an electronic safety component.
Warranty escalation: If you are unsatisfied with warranty coverage acceptance, you can call 800-331-4331 to file a complaint with Toyota customer service.
Q: Is it safe to drive with the EPS warning light on?
A: Yes, the vehicle remains steerable even with complete EPS failure. However:
A: Transient voltage-related warnings may clear once battery voltage recovers. However, mechanical failures require dealer diagnosis and repair. Do not assume the warning will go away on its own.
Q: Can I diagnose this with an OBD2 scanner?
A: Basic OBD2 scanners may read some EPS-related codes, but full diagnosis requires Toyota Techstream (dealer-level diagnostic software) to access EPS module-specific codes, perform system tests, and clear fault memory properly.
Q: Why isn't there a TSB for this if it is voltage-related?
A: Battery voltage issues are considered normal electrical system maintenance, not a defect requiring TSB. TSBs are issued for design flaws or manufacturing defects. Low battery voltage can affect any electronic system and is addressed through standard diagnostic procedures.
Q: Does the 4th gen Tacoma have hydraulic power steering fluid?
A: No. The 4th gen Tacoma uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) with no hydraulic fluid. There is no power steering fluid to check or change. This is a key difference from previous Tacoma generations.
The Electric Power Steering system in your 4th gen Tacoma consists of:
Why Toyota switched to EPS:
Why DIY diagnosis is limited:
EPS diagnostics require:
Aftermarket scan tools may read codes but lack TechStream is calibration and system test capabilities.
Warranty considerations:
If your Tacoma is under warranty:
See attached pages-reference.pdf for the original manual pages.
Owner's Manual: Pages 570, 577
Additional Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual with supplementary information from the 4th gen Tacoma owner community. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
(Reference: Owner's Manual, pg. 570, 577)
Power Steering Warning, EPS Light, Steering Heavy, Electric Power Steering, Steering Assist
The 4th gen Tacoma (2024+) uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) with no hydraulic fluid.
This is a key difference from earlier Tacoma generations which used hydraulic systems. The EPS system uses an electric motor to provide steering assist, controlled by an electronic module.
Yellow vs Red: Know the Difference
When the electric power steering system warning light comes on: When the light comes on yellow, the assist to the power steering is restricted. When the light comes on red, the assist to the power steering is lost and handling operations of the steering wheel become extremely heavy.
When steering wheel operations are heavier than usual, grip the steering wheel firmly and operate it using more force than usual.
Yellow EPS Warning Light
- Meaning: Power steering assist is restricted
- Steering feel: Noticeably heavier steering, especially at low speeds or while parking
- Can you drive: Yes, vehicle remains drivable but steering requires more effort
- System status: Operating in degraded mode to prevent further damage
- Urgency: Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately
Red EPS Warning Light
- Meaning: Power steering assist is lost completely
- Steering feel: Extremely heavy steering similar to older manual systems
- Can you drive: Yes, vehicle remains steerable but requires significantly more physical force
- System status: EPS system has shut down completely
- Urgency: Visit Toyota dealer immediately
- Safety note: Steering becomes extremely heavy, especially at parking lot speeds
Most Common Cause: Low Battery Voltage
Research into 4th gen Tacoma owner experiences reveals that low battery voltage is the primary cause of transient EPS warnings, particularly in vehicles with auto start/stop systems active in stop-and-go traffic.
Master diagnostic technician insight: If you have the gas model with auto start/stop enabled, it can discharge even a new battery if stuck in congested traffic long enough. Once battery reaches lower voltage about 11.9 volts you can get odd MID notifications for steering power low, AWD not available, and EPB malfunction.
Why this happens: Electric power steering systems are voltage-sensitive. When battery voltage drops below about 11.5V, the EPS control module may temporarily disable power steering assist as a protective measure.
Diagnostic Distinction: Transient vs. Persistent
Toyota owner communities have developed practical diagnostic criteria to distinguish voltage issues from mechanical failures:
Transient Warning (Voltage-Related):
- Warning light flashes briefly (under 5 seconds)
- No persistent MID message displayed
- Often occurs in stop-and-go traffic with auto start/stop active
- Resolution: Check battery health, test voltage (should be 12.4V+ at rest, 13.5-14.5V running)
Persistent Warning (Mechanical Failure):
- Warning light stays on steadily
- MID displays steering power low message
- May occur regardless of driving conditions
- Resolution: Requires dealer diagnosis with Toyota Techstream scan tool
Confirmed Mechanical Failures (Early Production)
While voltage issues are most common, some early production 2024 Tacomas experienced genuine power steering assembly failures. Owner report from March 2024 indicates a dealer had their best mechanic diagnose it after consulting with Toyota engineers and the vehicle needed complete power steering assembly replacement under warranty.
These failures occurred under 200 miles in some cases and required complete power steering assembly replacement under warranty after dealer consultation with Toyota engineers.
Troubleshooting Steps
Step 1: Assess the Warning
- Note the warning light color (yellow or red)
- Check for MID message (steering power low)
- Note if warning buzzer sounded
- Record how long light stayed illuminated
- Note driving conditions (stop-and-go traffic, cold start, etc.)
Step 2: Check Electrical System (For Transient Warnings)
If the warning was brief (under 5 seconds) with no persistent MID message:
- Test battery voltage at rest (should be 12.4V or higher)
- Test voltage while engine running (should be 13.5-14.5V)
- Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
- Consider disabling auto start/stop in heavy traffic to prevent battery discharge
Step 3: Dealer Diagnosis (When Required)
For persistent warnings or repeated transient warnings, schedule Toyota dealer service.
What to request from your dealer:
- Complete diagnostic scan using Toyota Techstream
- Printed DTC codes (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)
- Freeze frame data showing voltage, RPM, temperature at fault occurrence
- Battery and alternator load test
- Ground continuity verification
Why documentation matters: Requesting printed diagnostic reports creates an audit trail for warranty claims and enables informed second opinions. This prevents vague computer says it is fine diagnoses without concrete evidence.
TSB and Recall Status
As of November 28, 2025:
- No publicly available Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) found for EPS warning lights on 4th gen Tacoma
- No NHTSA recalls found for EPS system on 2024-2025 Tacoma
- EPS issues appear to be rare or being handled case-by-case under warranty
The absence of publicly available TSBs suggests either low failure rates or that the model is too new for pattern documentation (introduced 2024). Note: Dealerships may have internal service bulletins not publicly available.
Active recalls that do exist (not EPS-related):
- 25V-058: Brake line failure (mud/dirt intrusion), 222,000 vehicles (2024-2025 Tacomas)
- Airbag spiral cable issues (select VINs)
- Driveshaft concerns (select VINs)
Warranty Coverage
The Electric Power Steering system is covered under Toyota's 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as an electronic safety component.
Warranty escalation: If you are unsatisfied with warranty coverage acceptance, you can call 800-331-4331 to file a complaint with Toyota customer service.
Pro Tips from the 4th Gen Tacoma Community
- Disable auto start/stop in heavy traffic: In congested stop-and-go traffic, temporarily disable the auto start/stop system to prevent battery voltage drop that triggers transient EPS warnings.
- Battery health check first: Before diagnosing complex EPS issues, test battery voltage. Many transient warnings resolve with battery replacement. Battery should read 12.4V+ at rest, 13.5-14.5V while running.
- Request printed DTC codes: Always request printed diagnostic reports with specific DTC codes and freeze frame data. If dealer refuses, escalate to service manager. This documentation is critical for warranty claims.
- Don't ignore transient warnings: Even brief warnings indicate voltage issues. Test battery and alternator to prevent repeated warnings or eventual starting failure.
Common Questions
Q: Is it safe to drive with the EPS warning light on?
A: Yes, the vehicle remains steerable even with complete EPS failure. However:
- Yellow light: Steering is heavier than normal but manageable. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
- Red light: Steering becomes extremely heavy (no power assist). Drive carefully to nearest dealer. Grip wheel firmly and use significantly more force, especially for parking maneuvers.
A: Transient voltage-related warnings may clear once battery voltage recovers. However, mechanical failures require dealer diagnosis and repair. Do not assume the warning will go away on its own.
Q: Can I diagnose this with an OBD2 scanner?
A: Basic OBD2 scanners may read some EPS-related codes, but full diagnosis requires Toyota Techstream (dealer-level diagnostic software) to access EPS module-specific codes, perform system tests, and clear fault memory properly.
Q: Why isn't there a TSB for this if it is voltage-related?
A: Battery voltage issues are considered normal electrical system maintenance, not a defect requiring TSB. TSBs are issued for design flaws or manufacturing defects. Low battery voltage can affect any electronic system and is addressed through standard diagnostic procedures.
Q: Does the 4th gen Tacoma have hydraulic power steering fluid?
A: No. The 4th gen Tacoma uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) with no hydraulic fluid. There is no power steering fluid to check or change. This is a key difference from previous Tacoma generations.
What NOT to Do
- Do not ignore red warning lights: While the vehicle remains steerable, red warnings indicate complete system failure requiring immediate dealer attention.
- Do not accept computer says fine without documentation: Always request printed DTC codes and freeze frame data. If dealer cannot provide this, the diagnosis is incomplete.
- Do not assume voltage issues will resolve themselves: Weak batteries fail completely without warning. Address voltage-related warnings promptly.
- Do not panic if red light appears while driving: You have not lost steering capability, only power assist. The vehicle remains steerable with increased effort. Focus on controlled deceleration and safe pull-over. Avoid sudden steering inputs.
How Toyota EPS Works
The Electric Power Steering system in your 4th gen Tacoma consists of:
- EPS Control Module: Electronic brain that manages steering assist
- Electric Motor: Provides assist force (replaces hydraulic pump from older generations)
- Torque Sensor: Measures how hard you are turning the wheel
- Steering Angle Sensor: Tracks wheel position for stability control integration
- Vehicle Speed Input: Adjusts assist based on speed (more assist at low speeds, less at highway speed)
Why Toyota switched to EPS:
- Better fuel economy (no parasitic drag from hydraulic pump)
- Variable assist tuning via electronic control
- Improved reliability (fewer components, no fluid leaks)
- Integration with Toyota Safety Sense (Lane Tracing Assist requires EPS)
Dealer Service Expectations
Why DIY diagnosis is limited:
EPS diagnostics require:
- Toyota Techstream or equivalent professional scan tool
- Understanding of CAN bus communication protocols
- Access to Toyota service bulletins
- Ability to perform system calibration after repairs
Aftermarket scan tools may read codes but lack TechStream is calibration and system test capabilities.
Warranty considerations:
If your Tacoma is under warranty:
- EPS system is covered under 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Powertrain warranty (5-year/60,000-mile) does not cover EPS
- Document warning light appearance immediately
- Do not delay service (delayed diagnosis may complicate warranty claims)
Manual Reference
See attached pages-reference.pdf for the original manual pages.
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual: Pages 570, 577
Additional Sources:
- TacomaWorld.com
- Torque News
- Consumer Affairs
- NHTSA.gov
- 4Runner Forum
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual with supplementary information from the 4th gen Tacoma owner community. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only.
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