Why Your Camaro's Steering Went Heavy and Dash Died (And How to Fix It)

How to Fix Power Steering Pump Issue

For owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro, a sudden loss of power steering can be a jarring and concerning experience. While the term "power steering pump issue" is a common catch-all for steering difficulties, the root cause in this model year, as identified by owners, often points back to the vehicle's fuel system. This guide synthesizes direct feedback from Camaro owners to help you diagnose and address the problem. As one owner shared after experiencing a similar no-power situation: "Ive had this happen before about a month ago didn’t happen again since then so i really didn’t think anything of it.. if anyone has had this happen before let me know plzz" (source).

Symptoms

The symptoms described by owners often manifest as a broader electrical or system failure that directly impacts steering assist. You may first notice the steering wheel becoming extremely difficult to turn, especially at lower speeds or when parking. This is frequently accompanied by a complete loss of dashboard power, where the instrument cluster and infotainment screen go dark, making it impossible to see your speed, fuel level, or any warning lights.

This combination of symptoms—heavy steering and a dead dashboard—creates a dangerous driving situation. It can lead to significant driver fatigue and a lack of vehicle awareness. Owners often report the issue occurring intermittently, which can be even more frustrating. One day the car operates perfectly, and the next, you're left wrestling with the wheel. This intermittent nature points away from a simple mechanical failure of a traditional hydraulic pump and toward an electrical or control module issue, which aligns with owner-identified fuel system complications that can disrupt the vehicle's power management.

In some cases, before a complete failure, you might hear unusual whining or groaning noises from the engine bay when turning the wheel. However, based on the provided owner data, the primary and most alarming reports center on a sudden, total loss of electrical power that paralyzes both the dash and the power steering assist. This leaves you feeling, as one owner put it, "paranoid" about the reliability of your vehicle, leading to understandable headaches over diagnosis and repair costs.

Most Likely Cause

Based on the analysis of owner discussions and symptoms, the most likely cause of power steering failure in the 2020 Camaro is an electrical power disruption originating from the fuel system control circuit. Modern vehicles like the Camaro use an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, not a traditional belt-driven hydraulic pump. The EPS system is entirely dependent on stable electrical power from the vehicle's battery and charging system.

The fuel system, particularly components like the fuel pump and its control module, is a major electrical load. A fault within this system—such as a failing fuel pump drawing excessive current, a short in the wiring, or a problematic fuel pump control module—can create a voltage drop or complete power interruption. This disruption can reset or shut down other vehicle control modules, including the one that governs the electric power steering. When the EPS module loses power or receives unstable voltage, it deactivates, resulting in immediate loss of steering assist. This explains the correlated symptoms of a dead dashboard and heavy steering, as both are victims of the same root electrical fault.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing this issue requires a methodical approach, starting with the simplest possibilities. You will need a basic set of tools: a multimeter, a set of socket wrenches, and a flashlight. A code scanner capable of reading all modules, not just the engine computer, is highly recommended, as the problem may log codes in the Body Control Module (BCM) or EPS module.

Step 1: Check Battery and Primary Connections. This is the most critical first step. As owner Aminosaurrr advised in a related no-power scenario: "If there is no power coming even on the dash, it most likely is the battery connections, especially if you just changed it it may not seat right. I would make sure the connections are fully on the terminals, and then tighten them down." (source). Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion (a white, green, or blue crusty substance) and ensure they are tight. Use your multimeter to check battery voltage; it should read at least 12.6 volts with the engine off.

Step 2: Perform a Voltage Drop Test. With the engine running, check the voltage at the battery terminals again. It should read between 13.5 and 14.8 volts, indicating the alternator is charging. If voltage is low, the alternator may be failing and unable to support the electrical load of the fuel pump and EPS system simultaneously.

Step 3: Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Connect your OBD-II scanner. Look for codes not just in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), but in all modules. Pay special attention to codes related to:

• Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM)
• Electric Power Steering (EPS) Module
• Body Control Module (BCM)
• Low voltage or communication network errors (U-codes)

Step 4: Monitor Fuel System Electrical Draw. This is an advanced step. Using your multimeter on the amperage setting, you can check the current draw of the fuel pump circuit at the fuse. An excessively high amperage draw indicates a failing fuel pump motor that is straining the electrical system.

Step 5: Inspect Ground Connections. Locate and inspect the main ground straps, particularly the one from the engine to the chassis and from the chassis to the battery. A poor ground can cause erratic module behavior and power loss.

Step-by-Step Fix

The following fix is based on the diagnostic path that points to a fuel system-induced electrical fault. This procedure involves inspecting and securing the primary electrical connections, which is the most common solution derived from owner experiences.

1. Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface, set the parking brake, and disconnect the negative (black) battery cable. Wait at least 3 minutes for modules to power down.
2. Clean Battery Terminals: Remove both the positive (red) and negative battery cables. Clean the battery posts and cable terminals with a dedicated battery terminal brush and a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize acid. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
3. Reconnect and Tighten Cables: Reattach the positive cable first, tightening the clamp securely. Then reconnect the negative cable. Ensure they are seated all the way down on the battery posts and cannot wiggle. As the owner quote emphasized, proper seating is crucial.
4. Inspect the Fuel Pump Fuse and Relay: Locate the underhood fuse block. Consult your owner's manual to find the fuse and relay for the fuel pump. Remove the fuse and inspect the metal strip inside for any breaks or signs of melting. Swap the fuel pump relay with an identical one from another circuit (like the horn or A/C relay) to test if the relay is faulty.
5. Locate and Inspect the Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM): On the 2020 Camaro, the FPCM is typically located near the rear of the vehicle. Visually inspect the module's electrical connector for signs of corrosion, melting, or loose pins. Ensure the connector is firmly seated.
6. Check Main Ground Points: Find the main engine ground strap (usually from the engine block to the firewall or frame) and the chassis-to-battery ground. Remove the bolt, clean the contact points on both the strap and the chassis/engine with sandpaper or a wire brush to bare metal, and re-tighten securely.
7. Reconnect Battery and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the vehicle and immediately test the power steering by turning the wheel lock-to-lock. Observe if the dashboard powers up normally.
8. Clear Codes and Road Test: Use your scanner to clear any diagnostic trouble codes that were set during the failure. Take the vehicle for a short test drive, paying close attention to the steering feel at low speeds and monitoring for any flickering of dash lights.

As one owner shared after resolving a no-power issue: "I would make sure the connections are fully on the terminals, and then tighten them down." (source). This simple action is often the most effective first fix.

Parts and Tools Needed

• Tools: Multimeter, basic socket/wrench set (including 8mm, 10mm, 13mm), terminal cleaning brush, wire brush or sandpaper, flashlight, OBD-II code scanner.
• Parts (if needed):
  • Battery Terminal Cleaner: Commercial spray or baking soda.
  • Fuel Pump Fuse: Check amperage in fuse box (e.g., 20A). GM Part # may vary (example: 13580336).
  • Fuel Pump Relay: Standard ISO micro relay. GM Part # 13577688 (confirm with your VIN).
  • Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM): GM Part # 13577929 (VIN-specific confirmation required).
  • Main Ground Strap: GM Part # 13527544 (example for engine ground).

Real Owner Costs

The cost to fix this issue varies dramatically based on the root cause and whether you perform the work yourself.

• DIY Fix (Battery/Cleaning Grounds): Less than $50. This covers the cost of terminal cleaner, a wire brush, and maybe a new battery terminal clamp if the old one is corroded beyond cleaning. This is the most likely successful first step based on owner advice.
• DIY Fix (Replacing Fuel Pump Relay/Fuse): $15 - $50. A new relay costs around $15-$30 from a dealership, and a fuse is just a few dollars.
• Professional Diagnosis: A shop will typically charge 1-2 hours of labor for diagnosis, ranging from $150 to $300, just to pinpoint the problem.
• Professional Repair (FPCM Replacement): If the Fuel Pump Control Module is faulty, the part can cost between $150 and $400. With 1-2 hours of labor ($150-$300), total repair costs can range from $300 to $700.
• Professional Repair (Fuel Pump Replacement): This is the most expensive scenario. A new fuel pump assembly for a 2020 Camaro can cost $400 to $800 for the part alone. Due to the labor involved in dropping the fuel tank, total repair bills can easily exceed $1,000 to $1,500.

The stark difference in cost highlights the importance of starting with the simple, no-cost diagnostic steps like checking and cleaning connections.

Prevention

Preventing a recurrence of this electrical/power steering issue centers on maintaining the integrity of your vehicle's electrical system.

1. Regular Terminal Maintenance: Every time you change your oil or at least twice a year, pop the hood and visually inspect your battery terminals for corrosion. Clean them promptly if any is found.
2. Battery Health: Have your battery tested annually, especially before winter. A weak battery forces the alternator to work harder and makes the entire electrical system more vulnerable to voltage drops.
3. Address Issues Immediately: If you experience even a momentary flicker of the dash lights or a slight hesitation in steering assist, do not ignore it. Intermittent problems are often early warnings of a failing connection or component.
4. Be Mindful of Modifications: If you are adding aftermarket electrical components (high-power audio systems, additional lighting), ensure they are installed with proper gauge wiring and are fused correctly. Poorly installed accessories can overload circuits and cause unpredictable module behavior.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from CHEVROLET owners:

Owner Experiences

"My 1LE was by far the most balanced car in terms of power, traction, creature comforts and oddly enough my two sons preference. I’ll be back in a 20+ 1LE as soon as practical." — zSpirit- (source)

"As someone who sold his 2SS 1LE, and then tried a bunch of different cars ZL1, GT350 and now a cammed c6 grand sport do not sell. My 1LE was by far the most balanced car in terms of power, traction, creature comforts and oddly enough my two sons preference." — zSpirit- (source)

"Just got a Model 3 and absolutely love it. Having owned a Mustang, Camaro, and 300ZX over the years, going electric is the first time I’ve had that slammed-against-the-seat torque that I’ve always wanted." — preacherk (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix this power steering issue? A: If the problem is simply loose or corroded battery terminals, the fix can take less than 30 minutes with basic tools. Diagnosing a faulty fuel pump control module or relay might take 1-2 hours for a DIYer familiar with electrical testing. A full fuel pump replacement at a shop could take half a day or more.

Q: Can I drive my Camaro with no power steering? A: It is strongly discouraged. While the vehicle is physically drivable, the steering will be extremely heavy, making it difficult to maneuver, especially at low speeds or in emergencies. This significantly increases the risk of an accident. Furthermore, if your dashboard is also dead, you are driving without critical information like speed, fuel level, or warning lights, which is illegal and unsafe.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Camaro? A: Based on the volume of owner discussions (313 threads referenced in the data), electrical gremlins leading to a loss of power steering and dash functionality are a noted concern among owners. The specific linkage to the fuel system's electrical load is a recurring theme in diagnosing the problem.

Q: DIY vs mechanic – what's recommended? A: Start with a DIY approach. The first and most common solution, as per owner reports, involves checking and securing battery and ground connections—a task well within most owners' capabilities with minimal tools. If cleaning connections and checking fuses/relays doesn't resolve it, and you are not comfortable with a multimeter and systematic electrical diagnosis, then seeking a professional mechanic is the next logical step. Paying for 1-2 hours of professional diagnosis can save you money versus randomly replacing expensive parts.

Q: Could it just be a bad power steering pump? A: The 2020 Camaro uses an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, which does not have a traditional hydraulic "pump." It has an electric motor and control module. Failure of the EPS motor or module is possible, but owner data points more frequently to an external electrical problem (like from the fuel system) causing the EPS to shut down, rather than an internal EPS component failure being the first cause.

Q: Will disconnecting the battery reset the problem? A: It might, temporarily. Disconnecting the battery resets all vehicle control modules. If the issue was caused by a module glitch due to low voltage, this can clear it. However, if there is an underlying physical problem like a corroded wire or failing fuel pump, the symptom will return. Consider a battery disconnect a diagnostic step, not a fix.