hello - my 2016 nx200t sport w/51k miles occasionally (~ 4 times in the last 3 years) loses power steering function yet still be able to steer, console light to add fluid steering pops up, after stopping it comes back to normal.
Took it for a diagnosis and was told to replace rack and pinion, so I've talked to the expert to get a better explanation since in my research the steering it is an electric system, so I've suggested why if it is electric why is failing occasionally and not all the time, and that maybe the electric connector was rotted and to check it before replacing the parts. In the next contact the expert gave me a new diagnosis to not only replace rack and pinion, but in addition Steering Column with Motor, so I've asked why the initial diagnosis didn't pickup a code for the motor and was given a vague response, at which point I've concluded that replacing everything would be the safest for them.

Should the electric motor fault code came up on the diagnosis on the profesional scanner the first time around?, or is there a way to better diagnose DIY, was looking to get a scanner Pro OBD2.

Thanks

 

You mentioned a Professional scanner.
Maybe they can only be tested with a scan from a dealer or a mechanic with Techstream.
Ive tried a couple of ODB2 plugins with and plagiarised Techstream install without consistency.
I dont even know if a more expensive scanner similar to this might be required.
example only:
https://tinyurl.com/az52r3ar

Ive played around (and spent a money) on trying to get Totota/Lexus Techstream system to work but never got any to run reliably.

 

On your vehicle, steering assist is applied to the steering shaft before it connects to the rack. So whoever recommended to replace the rack is not likely actually an "expert" on the NX system.
There is no power steering fluid to add or replace; is this advised somewhere in your factory owner's manual?
There should be diagnostic codes stored, but only an advanced scanner (or Techstream software program) can read them. A list of the applicable codes is attached. This list assumes your NX is NOT also equipped with the motor-driven tilt/telescope column, which has additional codes.

 

hi,
The power steering warning displays in the console when it fails, indicating to add fluid literally, since my NX is a first generation I guess the manufacturer decided to keep the generic messages,

So, when my steering system fails the failing codes are stored in and the scanner can retrieve them?

thanks!

 

If your NX was manufactured for a market other than North America, perhaps Lexus used the hydraulic power steering from a Toyota model with a similar chassis design. Check your Owner's Manual for instructions where to add power steering fluid. The 2016 NX200T Owner's manual for USA/Canada models indicates a steering assist malfunction light with an icon only.