Code P0551 - How Serious?

[BB]

The check engine light came on today while driving and this code is all that shows. Anyone know how serious this is? I'm also dealing with issues from a lightning strike at home so it might be a few days before I can get the car to the dealer. Should I not drive until I get it looked at?
Thanks!
BB

[zzzhuh]

It either means that the engine is about to blow up at any second, or it means the power steering switch may not be working.

[BB]

I'm hoping the latter...still...maybe upping the life insurance coverage might be a good idea.
BB

[Espresso]

Check your fluid. If it is low...add. If the light stays on suspect the switch. They are about $20 & easy to replace.

Also check for leaks. If you havent had the hose replaced under recall. I would SERIOUSLY get it to the dealer. Quite a few PT's have burned to the ground because the hose leaked fluid & caused a fire under the hood.

[zzzhuh]

Seriously, a power steering fluid leak could start a fire, but the recall was only for non-turbos with auto.

Â* Â* Â*
As per DOT Website:
"ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4L NON-TURBO ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES. ROUTING VARIATION IN THE HIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE COULD ALLOW CONTACT WITH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER, POTENTIALLY DAMAGING THE HOSE."

[BB]

Thanks guys!
I knew that my GT was not part of the recall so I wasn't too worried about that part. Guess it's probably the sensor or switch. How easy is it to do?
BB

[Hooligan]

Back to your Dealer, you never said how many miles on your car.

[BB]

Mileage is right at 44,000 miles.

Curious; I checked the power steering fluid level today and it was a little low. Light was still on. Drove to dinner and parked on a hill, nose up. After dinner, no light.

I'll see what it does tomorrow and get some fluid to add. Maybe I can dodge a trip to the dealer.
BB

[BB]

No light for almost a whole day. Then came back on. I'll get fluid tomorrow and see if a little top off makes any difference.
BB