I'm hoping to get some ideas here on our 2001 Galant 6cyl.

The last few times it's rained heavily and I think it's when we've hit some standing water or just some heavy water in the streets in general, the dash lights light up and power steering is lost. Engine doesn't die and after 30 seconds or so of limping it will return to normal.

I'm thinking splashing water might be sort of shorting out something and then once the water drips away it's ok, but I'm not sure where to look. The power steering unit is up high in the engine, so that doesn't seem logical.

Fortunately, this has been happening in slow speed situations, but we are nervous about if this happens at high speed on an interstate.

edit: Back in July, I replaced both belts. Would getting wet enough cause them to slip and show these symptoms, then once dry return to normal? Perhaps I should try adjusting the belt tightness after this period of breaking in. I did tighten a tad a week or so after install.

Another related question: This car was bought used and I see no splash guards under the front bumper or on either side. Should there be?

Thanks for any input.

It is all depending , standing water flying up on aging belts will cause them to slip, causing a loss in power steering assist . The dash lights may be the traction control and other lights situated with loss of traction when hitting standing water.